Be a Mentor!

Are You a Professional Woman Writer?

Apply to be a Volunteer Writing Mentor today!

Girls Write Now is a community of professional women writers—educators, editors, poets, novelists, playwrights, journalists, literary agents, publishers, and more—on a mission. Since 1998 we've provided guidance, support, and opportunities for New York City's underserved or at-risk high school girls, enabling them to develop their creative, independent voices, explore careers in professional writing, and learn how to make healthy choices in school, career, and life.

Now in our twelfth season of programming, Girls Write Now is seeking passionate writers, teachers, and leaders.

Please check back in early spring 2010 for mentor applications for the 2010-11 program year.

Girls Write Now Mentors are Women Writers...

Armed with at least two years of professional writing experience
Dedicated to guiding the artistic, academic, and professional aspirations of young women

Willing to work collectively with the organization and to recognize the importance of a supportive community in creative expression

Prepared to make clear, frequent, and tenacious communication with our leadership, volunteers, and girls

Able to make a serious commitment, from September through June, to weekly one-to-one mentoring sessions, monthly group workshops and special events, and co-leadership of one genre-based workshop per season

Ready to take a stake in one of five volunteer teams, connecting with fellow mentors and playing a vital role in keeping the organization running smoothly

What you can expect from us:

We are a lean, hard-working, enthusiastic, and supportive group. You can expect training and support, as well as frequent and compassionate communication from our leadership to ensure that your volunteer experience with Girls Write Now is truly rewarding.

How to apply:

Download and fill out the Girls Write Now Mentor Application + The Volunteer Application for Prospective Mentors Pursuant to the Protect Act.
Email the Girls Write Now Mentor Application, along with a copy of your resume, and two writing samples to enrollment@girlswritenow.org. Writing samples can be any genre and should not exceed 10 pages total. They do not need to be published creative writing—feel free to send samples of your business writing (such as press releases or reports) or even personal journal entries. As a writing-focused program, top-notch writing skills are essential.
Qualified applicants will be invited to an individual, in-person interview at which time we will ask you to sign both your Girls Write Now Mentor Application and the Volunteer Application for Prospective Mentors Pursuant to the Protect Act. We will also take your fingerprints and ask for a one-time $18 processing fee for your criminal background check.
If accepted, we will invite you to fall orientation and training session where you'll meet the community and get the tools you'll need to work effectively with your mentee.