Policy & Blog Specialist (Volunteer – Policy, Advocacy & Communications Division)

Policy & Blog Specialist (Volunteer – Policy, Advocacy & Communications Division)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Division: Policy, Advocacy & Communications

Location: New York City and/or Remote via Google Meet

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a New York City nonprofit serving youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability. Through mentorship, enrichment programming, storytelling, and policy engagement, MAP works to uplift children and families navigating shelter and temporary housing systems.

The Policy & Communications Division leads research, legislative tracking, policy analysis, and storytelling that advances MAP’s mission and strengthens community understanding.

About the Role

We are seeking a Policy & Blog Specialist to research key policy issues affecting youth experiencing homelessness and translate those findings into clear, accessible blog content. This role blends policy analysis with public storytelling, ensuring that MAP’s community, partners, and readers stay informed and engaged.

Key Responsibilities

• Research policies related to homelessness, youth rights, education access, housing systems, and NYC programs.
• Write blog posts, explainers, summaries, and thought pieces based on policy research.
• Collaborate with Policy Analysts, Legal Affairs, and Communications teams to ensure accuracy and alignment.
• Translate complex policy issues into clear, engaging, community-friendly writing.
• Support legislative tracking and gather updates relevant to MAP’s mission.
• Create content for MAP’s website, newsletters, and storytelling platforms (Threads of Voices, MAP Blog).
• Check and respond to emails daily, with responses within 48 hours.
• Integrate feedback and continuously refine clarity, structure, and accuracy.

Qualifications

• Strong research and writing skills.
• Ability to explain policy topics clearly and engagingly.
• Interest in youth homelessness, education, or social justice issues.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working independently.
• Excellent communication and storytelling ability.

Bonus Skills (not required)

• Experience with policy, journalism, advocacy, or legal writing.
• Familiarity with NYC housing and education systems.
• Bilingual or multilingual (Spanish or Haitian Creole preferred).

Commitment

• Volunteer role, 5–10 hours per week.
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred.
• Hybrid: New York City and/or remote via Google Meet.

What You’ll Gain

• A portfolio of published policy blogs and advocacy content.
• Experience working with policy, research, and communications teams.
• Professional growth in policy analysis and nonprofit storytelling.
• Letters of recommendation and strong professional references.
• The fulfillment of helping families, educators, and youth better understand the systems around them.

Application Process

Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and 1–2 writing samples to hr@mentorapromise.org with the subject line: Policy & Blog Specialist – Mentor A Promise.

You may also apply directly here:

https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Write with purpose — help illuminate the policies that shape youth experiences and elevate MAP’s advocacy for housing-unstable students.