Our core program, The Lab, is the only free after-school filmmaking workshop anywhere that matches each participant one-on-one with a professional filmmaker-mentor. Each fall and spring we recruit twelve passionate and talented high school students from across NYC to participate in the 20-week workshop, which is located at the Prospect Park YMCA in Park Slope, Brooklyn . Mentors guide students through the practical, personal and artistic challenges of expressing their true visions through film.

Mentoring is a powerful way to give back to your community. Studies show that students who are mentored do better in school and are more likely to go on to higher education. Mentoring also helps prevent substance abuse, reduces negative behavior and promotes positive social attitudes among teens. Working side by side with a caring adult helps young people gain self-esteem, master state-of-the-art technology and transform themselves from passive consumers to active creators of media.

To be a mentor, you must be a NYC media professional with significant documentary filmmaking experience. Mentors receive training and guidance throughout their 20-week commitment which includes a weekly meeting with a student “mentee” and a monthly assessment meeting with Reel Works staff.

To apply, download an application and return it with your resume and a work sample.

All applicants will be invited to come to The Lab for an orientation visit to discuss the commitment in detail, including the schedule, the time commitment, what is expected from our volunteers and the kind of support Reel Works provides.

To be certain mentoring is right for you, we encourage you to watch our films, read about The Lab and call us with any questions prior to applying.