The mentorship program
Report for America corps members are paired with a mentor who is uniquely positioned to help them excel in their roles. Throughout the program year, they provide support and encouragement via regular check-ins. Mentors are veteran, award-winning journalists from a range of industries — print, broadcast, digital, non-profit news and academia. We are proud and thankful to have a diverse group of mentors supporting journalism and the next generation of journalists.
Interested in becoming a mentor and giving back to journalists covering new and under-covered beats in communities across the U.S.? Read more below, and fill out the interest form here.
Meet the mentors
Hundred of volunteers have participated in our mentorship program. In the 2021-2022 program year, 179 mentors supported our Report for America corps member cohort. Meet a few of these outstanding journalists below.
Alfredo Corchado
Dallas Morning News
In a time of upheaval in our industry, it’s important to learn from one another… It’s important to do your part to save journalism by inspiring younger reporters. Be open to learning from your mentee.
David Plazas
USA Today
I have enjoyed mentoring young journalists for nearly 15 years. I believe I can offer some thoughts and guidance that can be helpful, much like my mentors did for me. I benefit greatly from the youthful energy and dedication of the mentees. It makes me want to continue helping prepare the next generation of journalists.
Program requirements
Interested in becoming a Report for America mentor? The timeline to apply to be a volunteer is usually every year between March – May.
Ideally, our mentors are able to meet the following requirements:
- Have 7+ years of experience in journalism
- Are able to meet at least once a quarter until the end of the corps member’s program term
- Have prior mentoring experience (preferable)
If you meet these requirements and want to sign up for updates, fill out the Report for America Get Involved form or reach out to mentor@reportforamerica.org.