Copy Editor / Proofreader (Volunteer)

Copy Editor / Proofreader (Volunteer)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Division: Storytelling & Media / PromisePress / Communications

Location: Remote via Google Meet and/or New York City (as needed)

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a New York City–based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability. Through mentorship, literacy development, social-emotional learning, creative expression, and storytelling, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people are seen, respected, and valued.

MAP’s written materials—stories, curriculum, newsletters, scripts, and public-facing communications—require clarity, accuracy, and consistency to ensure our message is delivered with care and professionalism.

Purpose of the Role

The Copy Editor / Proofreader ensures that MAP’s written content is clear, polished, and error-free while preserving the original voice and intent of the writer. This role focuses on grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency, and readability—serving as the final quality check before content is published or shared.

This editor supports excellence without altering meaning, tone, or narrative ownership.

Key Responsibilities

• Proofread and copy edit content for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax
• Ensure consistency in style, tone, and formatting across materials
• Review stories, curriculum, newsletters, scripts, and digital copy
• Flag unclear language, repetition, or inconsistencies
• Apply MAP style guidelines and editorial standards
• Collaborate with writers, editors, and communications staff
• Maintain version control and track edits clearly
• Meet deadlines and turnaround expectations
• Check and respond to emails daily, with responses within 48 hours

Qualifications

• Experience in copy editing, proofreading, publishing, communications, or related fields
• Excellent command of written English and attention to detail
• Ability to preserve author voice while improving clarity and accuracy
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Sensitivity to trauma-informed and culturally responsive language
• Commitment to ethical, inclusive, and mission-driven work

Bonus (Not Required)

• Experience editing children’s, youth, or nonprofit content
• Familiarity with editorial style guides (AP, Chicago, etc.)
• Experience working with collaborative documents (Google Docs)
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities (Spanish or Haitian Creole preferred)

Commitment

• Volunteer role, approximately 5–10 hours per week
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
• Remote collaboration with optional NYC-based participation

What You’ll Gain

• Portfolio-ready copy editing and proofreading experience
• Collaboration with writers, educators, and creative teams
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• The opportunity to help ensure MAP’s voice is clear, credible, and respectful

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Resume
• Short written summary (2–4 paragraphs) describing your editing experience, attention to detail, and availability

Email materials to:

hr@mentorapromise.org

Subject Line: Copy Editor / Proofreader – Mentor A Promise

Or apply directly here:

https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Polish with care. Help words land clearly, accurately, and with integrity.