Do You Have What It Takes to Join the Urban Connection Media Team?

Urban Connection is forming a Media Team that will document and share weekly stories from Skid Row. These documentary-style pieces are meant to capture the real-life experiences of homeless individuals struggling to both live on and get out of Skid Row. Besides informing volunteers on what life on Skid Row is like, these weekly narratives also give the homeless guests on camera an opportunity to share their life’s story and connect with those who live outside their community. Often times, this connection and personal sharing experience can be enough to inspire individuals to take the steps they need to finally get off the streets.

If you would like to join UC’s Media Team, please read below to see if you qualify.

Commitment: We know you are very busy. While consistency is important, we are very flexible. You can volunteer as little or frequently as you like, however we ask that when you make a commitment, you show up. A day of shooting may depend on you.

Experience: Most Media Team crew positions require at least an entry-level knowledge, however there are some spots open for individuals who are interested in helping out but have no prior experience. Basic “on-the-job” training is available to all Media Team crew members. (See below for specific requirements.)

Age Requirement: Any volunteer over the age of 10 are welcome to join UC’s Media Team. However, because most positions require basic entry-level knowledge, volunteers under the age of 12 might not be eligible. Volunteers under the age of 18 interested in serving on-site on Skid Row will be required to get a parent or legal guardian’s signature before volunteering.

Positions:

• Camera Operators: You will be documenting activities and events at Urban Connection and also covering special stories on the streets. This will require you to carry a camera both inside Urban Connection and on the streets of Skid Row. You must be comfortable shooting and know how to use a camera.
• Editors: You must be access to your own editing software. Previous editing experience is required. This is a from-home opportunity, and you will not be required to be on site on Skid Row.
• Motion Graphics Designer: You must have access to your own motion graphics software. Previous experience or schooling in Motion Graphics is mandatory. This is a from-home opportunity, and you will not be required to be on site on Skid Row.
• Graphics Designer: You will be helping out with print design and brochures. You must have access to your own software. This is a from-home opportunity, and you will not be required to be on site on Skid Row.
• Photographer: You will be taking candid photos of activity, including special events, inside Urban Connection, and also on the streets of Skid Row. You must be comfortable shooting and know how to use a camera. If you do not have you’re your own camera, a Nokia digital camera will be provided for you.
• Reporters: You will be covering special assignments, including personal stories or community updates, in a news style format. You should be comfortable interviewing and taking initiative in following up on assignments. A short writing example may be requested.
• No Experience Opportunities: If you have no experience in any of the above positions but still want to serve on UC’s Media Team, there are still positions for you! We have spots open for assistants and grips. You will be working directly with other Media Team crewmembers at Urban Connection and on the streets of Skid Row. All skills will be taught on-the-job as you go.

If you are creative, interested in film, photography, or writing, or simply want to volunteer in a different way, now is your chance. By joining the UC’s Media Team, you can help spread the word on homelessness in Los Angeles and give the homeless of Skid Row a voice.

To join the UC Media Team or request more information, please email Jacob at jacob@urbanconnection.com or call 888-889-8687 ext. 706.

To see some of our previous videos on Skid Row Stories, click HERE.