Creative Director of Film & Cinematic Storytelling (Volunteer)

About the role

Mentor A Promise is a New York City–based nonprofit serving children and youth (ages 5–18) experiencing housing instability. The Creative Director of Film & Cinematic Storytelling will define the cinematic language and film strategy across MAP divisions.

Responsibilities

• Define MAP’s cinematic identity across documentary and narrative formats
• Develop film concepts aligned with programmatic and brand strategy
• Lead pre-production planning (scripts, storyboards, shot architecture, tone direction)
• Oversee production coordination and on-set creative leadership
• Ensure safeguarding, consent, and release form compliance for all participants
• Guide editing standards, pacing, sound design direction, and final cut review
• Collaborate with policy and communications teams for public-facing film initiatives
• Develop structured archival systems for raw footage and completed films
• Ensure representation of students and families is ethical, non-exploitative, and trauma-informed
• Contribute to grant applications and institutional presentations requiring video documentation
• Maintain timely, professional responsiveness via email and chat in Google Workspace

Qualifications

• Background in film production, directing, cinematography, or narrative media
• Demonstrated experience leading film projects from concept to completion
• Strong understanding of visual storytelling, pacing, and emotional structure
• Experience managing production timelines and post-production workflows
• Familiarity with safeguarding protocols and media consent standards
• Portfolio demonstrating cinematic coherence and storytelling depth

Preferred Skills

• Experience in documentary filmmaking
• Familiarity with nonprofit or civic storytelling environments
• Experience working with youth participants
• Knowledge of editing workflows (Premiere Pro, Final Cut, DaVinci, or equivalent)
• Experience building a visual brand language across multiple projects

Commitment

• Founding leadership role
• Structured engagement (minimum 5–10 hours per week for executive volunteer track; scalable during production cycles)
• NYC-based filming required
• 6-month minimum commitment preferred