Writer (Volunteer) in New York, New York at WhoWhatWhy

Note: This is a remote, part-time volunteer position.

Today, pretty much anyone can hang out their shingle as a “writer.” And millions have. However, being part of a smart, experienced team of journalists working together, sharing ideas, and making each other’s work as strong as possible — that’s a different thing entirely.

If you’re an experienced writer/reporter with strong expertise in politics, policy, world events, history, cultural commentary, or other areas that align with what we do, we’d love to hear from you. For some writers, this is a chance to work on bigger topics than they might otherwise get to cover, collaborate with deeply experienced editors, and produce clips that can open doors. For others, it’s an opportunity to stay engaged, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a serious journalistic team rather than working in isolation.

We’re an independent, nonprofit news organization with a limited budget, so we especially welcome those who are not looking to us principally as an income source. Our writers range from pro bono to modestly paid (particularly those covering wars and international developments), and this can be discussed.

Our atmosphere is convivial, supportive, and stimulating. Writers here have the chance to sharpen their work with strong editorial input, stretch into ambitious subject areas, and be part of a team that shares ideas and strengthens one another’s work. It’s a great add-on to your life — whether you become an “inside writer” or contribute periodically as a freelance collaborator.

WhoWhatWhy is an independent nonprofit investigative news organization producing deep-dive journalism on the most important issues of our time. We’re powered by skilled volunteers and a small core staff — from students to seasoned professionals — who believe in rigorous, ethical reporting free from corporate or political influence.

As a Writer, you will work with editors to develop, shape, and refine stories that align with our editorial focus. You will:

• Pitch and develop story ideas aligned with our editorial focus
• Conduct research using credible sources, including interviews when needed
• Write articles, explainers, and investigative pieces based on approved pitches
• Structure articles with a clear narrative flow (introduction, development, conclusion)
• Support key points with accurate sourcing, attribution, and evidence
• Collaborate with editors to revise drafts and strengthen content
• Submit revisions within agreed timelines

• A track record of writing thoughtful, well-developed articles, essays, or other substantial public-facing work
• Sound news judgment and the ability to identify what is important, interesting, or worth pursuing in a story
• Comfort working independently while also engaging in a collaborative editorial process
• Ability to incorporate editorial feedback while maintaining accuracy, substance, and voice
• The discipline to follow through on assignments, revisions, and deadlines
• An interest in serious reporting and analysis grounded in facts, context, and evidence
• Background in journalism, communications, or a related field is helpful, but not required

• Experience writing for publication, newsletters, Substack, blogs, or other public-facing platforms
• Subject-matter expertise in politics, law, history, foreign affairs, science, technology, business, or culture
• Experience translating complex information for a general audience
• Experience conducting interviews or working from source material, public records, or research documents
• Familiarity with digital publishing or audience-facing writing

We value volunteers who can contribute consistently over time and communicate reliably with their teams. Scheduling is flexible and will vary depending on the role, workload, and department needs.

Please send:

• Your resume or a brief summary of your relevant experience
• A short note explaining your interest in the role

If you cannot upload your materials, email them to hr@whowhatwhy.org. Please check your spam folder for responses.

We value thoughtful, genuine applications that reflect your own voice and interest in the role.