Community journalism as community service

August 12, 2022

Report for America, co-founded by former resident and friend of the Press Charlie Sennott and now in its fifth year, is an exciting initiative that has recruited early- and mid-career journalists to beef up understaffed newsrooms throughout the country—and bring new coverage to underserved communities.

But local journalists don’t have to look beyond Harvard for opportunities to serve. At the Harvard Press, a sense of community service drives our operation, which is staffed by hometown reporters, editors, and photographers committed to good journalism. Like many small weeklies, the Press definitely has its own gaps in staffing to fill but we’ve always believed that our long-term sustainability depends on growing our talent locally. That’s our staffing model. We provide contributors with a place to hone their skills (and see their names in print) and support them with the feedback and training they need to get better. And their work is a public service, keeping residents informed and building community.

Whether you’re taking a year off between college and grad school, searching for a post-retirement mission, or just want to learn more and write about the town you live in, consider a stint at the Press, your own award-winning paper. Prior school or professional experience is always welcome, but not a requirement. To learn more, drop a note to editor@harvardpress.net.

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