Join the Community Journalism Lab
Community Representatives, who make up our CJL, serve as a vital link between our newsrooms and the communities we are dedicated to serving.
Their role is integral to our community engagement strategy, facilitating valuable connections and insights. Community Representatives, as independent contractors, play a significant role in bridging the gap between our organization and the community. They are instrumental in providing insights, promoting information equity, and nurturing meaningful relationships within our diverse audience.
We aim to have 8-10 Community Representatives as part of each newsroom. This commitment ensures that we have a robust network of individuals who can effectively engage with and represent the diverse voices and needs of our communities.
Community Reps receive competitive compensation, earning $22 per hour for their work. They have the opportunity to work up to 10 hours per month.
If this sounds like a role you’re interested in, read on for what makes an exceptional applicant below and apply here. New representatives are accepted on a rolling basis, as spaces become available throughout the year in our Wichita and Kansas City newsrooms.
| CJL Key Attributes | LOCAL TIES CJL representatives are residents of our communities with deep connections to the people, organizations, places, and history. They’ve got at least 5 hours per month to give. | EMPATHETIC LISTENERS They excel in the skill of active listening, demonstrating respect, care, and curiosity in their interactions. They are quick to ask questions and caution to prescribe solutions. | LIFELONG LEARNERS Possess a genuine eagerness to learn and grow is a defining trait. They are proactive in identifying training and workshops that will help them grow. |
| DIVERSE NETWORKS They are well-connected within various communities, reflective of the many backgrounds and experiences that make Kansas City home to people from all walks of life. | COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Experience in neighborhood community building and community organizing is highly valued. | REPRESENTATION The selection process actively seeks individuals whose perspectives or experiences may be underrepresented in news coverage. | MULTILINGUAL SKILLS Proficiency in languages other than English is a valuable asset. Community Representatives may help with story or event translation. |