Writer and Content Producer
The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation
There’s work and there’s your life’s work.
Your life’s work ignites a spark that fuels your passion. Your life’s work grabs you by your soul and won’t let go. You are an impact maker.
People join The Harwood Institute to create real, lasting change. We have a proven 30-year history of actively confronting and tackling complex, systemic issues in communities and creating real hope. When tragedy strikes, like the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012, we are on the ground helping communities move from trauma and despair to healing and hope. Today, we are working with various communities across the country – Jackson, MS, Alamance County, NC, and Reading, PA, among others – to demonstrate that communities can come together across fault lines to address real challenges, get on a trajectory for hope, and create new narratives of possibility. We are also actively growing national networks of leaders, public innovators and funders to unleash the potential of people, communities, and society across the U.S.
We’re looking for a passionate and pragmatic individual to work directly with Rich Harwood and our team to write and edit content that lifts up arguments for healing and hope in society, people coming together across differences, and creating community-led change. Rich Harwood has written for national publications and appeared on various news networks, including NPR, CNN, PBS NewsHour, C-SPAN, and most recently, MSNBC’s Meet the Press Daily. He is also a well-respected author of six books, including best-seller Stepping Forward: A Positive, Practical Path to Transform our Communities and Our Lives and his most recent book Unleashed: A Proven Way Communities Can Spread Change and Make Hope Real for All.
Your content development and writing will spread messages that help create a more equitable, fair, just, inclusive, and hopeful society, while promoting Rich Harwood and The Harwood Institute as trusted civic voices. You will play a critical role in crafting Rich and The Harwood Institute’s messaging, creatively capturing ideas informed by the Institute’s more than 30 years of experience working with communities, leaders and organizations. You will craft articles, op-eds, blogs, web content, and other pieces.
You may have worked as a researcher, a freelance writer, on a political campaign, in a marketing and communications role, or in public relations. You are an excellent writer, enjoy being a thought partner, and get results.
If this sounds like you, let’s explore working together.
Responsibilities
- Develop and craft articles, op-eds, blogs, videos and other content pieces that effectively position Rich and the Institute as thought leaders and trusted civic voices
- Write using the Institute’s and/or Rich Harwood’s voice and style
- Connect the Institute’s messages to current events and societal challenges
- Engage with editors/publishers about the content they are looking for and craft and pitch responsive ideas
- Work on new book ideas and chapters
- Write compelling copy for the Institute’s website, newsletter, blog posts, and projects
- Draft and edit and media pitches
- Work with the Network Engagement and Communications team to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms
Qualifications
We are seeking an individual with demonstrated experience and proven results in:
- Writing clear and compelling articles, op-eds, books, blogs, stories of change, and other copy
- Connecting ideas to larger and current societal trends and events
- Engaging in highly interactive, brainstorming discussions and then producing ideas, outlines, and new copy
- Crafting strategic messages, videos, content and pitches
- Receiving critiques of their work and direct feedback
- Positioning an organization or individual as a trusted, valued voice
- Building lasting, authentic relationships with publishers, media and/or other partners
- Connecting dots, discovering new avenues and opportunities, and producing concrete results
- Understanding and aligning content production with an organization’s established voice and writing style
Terms
- Full-time position
- Should be able to work in the Institute’s Bethesda, MD, Office; hybrid and remote work arrangements will be discussed in interviews
To Apply
If you want to be a difference-maker, email your resume and statement of interest to [email protected]. We are looking to hire the right individual as soon as possible.
The Harwood Institute has a strong commitment to building a culturally diverse and inclusive team. We encourage women and minorities to apply. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.
About The Harwood Institute
The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization that equips people, organizations, communities, and networks with the tools to bridge divides, build capacity, and tackle shared challenges. The Harwood Institute’s work is rooted in a philosophy of Civic Faith and the practice of Turning Outward. Founded in 1988, the Institute’s approach has spread to all 50 states across the US and 40 countries around the world.
About Richard C. Harwood
Rich’s perspective is unique – and urgently needed today. For over 30 years, he has dedicated his career to revitalizing the nation’s hardest-hit communities, transforming the world’s largest organizations, and reconnecting institutions like newsrooms and schools to society. He has been recruited to solve some of the most difficult problems of our time, including being called into Newtown, Connecticut after the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Rich has innovated and developed a new philosophy of Civic Faith and the practice of Turning Outward, helping communities solve shared problems and create a civic culture of shared responsibility. Thousands of community leaders, officeholders, foundation and corporate executives, clergy, journalists, and government officials around the globe are using his approaches. He is an inspiring, sought-after speaker who regularly keynotes major conferences. He appears regularly on major media outlets and has written several books, including Stepping Forward: A Positive, Practical Path to Transform Our Communities and Our Lives, and numerous groundbreaking reports. Rich is the Founder and President of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, located in Bethesda, Maryland.
For more information about The Harwood Institute and Rich Harwood, visit www.theharwoodinstitute.org
The Harwood Institute
Related jobs:
Paid TV Series Extras
Job Description
A hit television series filming in Atlanta, Georgia is now casting male and female background actors for multiple featured extra roles. Production is seeking reliable performers to portray street pedestrians, salon customers, and upscale gala attendees. This is a great opportunity for aspiring actors and background performers to gain on-set experience while working on a professional television production.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray background characters in various scenes including street, salon, and gala environments
-
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team during filming
-
Arrive on set prepared in appropriate wardrobe when required
-
Maintain professionalism and continuity during takes
-
Work collaboratively with cast, crew, and other background actors
Requirements
-
Must be 18 years or older
-
Open to male and female background actors
-
Must be able to work in Atlanta, Georgia
-
Some roles require formal attire such as tuxedos or formal gowns
-
Ability to follow on-set directions and remain attentive during filming
Compensation
-
$100 for an 8-hour filming day
-
Payment issued by check after production processing
-
Opportunity to gain experience working on a television series set
Job Description
A new digital dating series is now casting singles in Los Angeles for an exciting relationship-focused show hosted by dating app CEO Kendra G. The production is looking for men and women who are open to sharing their dating experiences and participating in fun, engaging on-camera moments. Selected participants will also receive professional dating coaching, making this a unique opportunity for singles ready to explore love while appearing on a digital series.
Job Responsibilities
-
Participate in on-camera dating experiences and discussions
-
Share personal dating stories and experiences with the host
-
Engage in guided conversations and activities during filming
-
Follow production schedules for half-day filming sessions
-
Collaborate with the production team to create engaging content
Requirements
-
Men and women between the ages of 25–54
-
Must be based in or able to work in Los Angeles
-
Comfortable appearing on camera and discussing dating experiences
-
Must be available for two half-day filming sessions during the production window
-
Outgoing personality with a genuine interest in dating and relationships
Compensation
-
Opportunity to appear on a digital dating series
-
Professional dating coaching from a relationship expert
-
Industry exposure through a professionally produced project
Job Description
A female-led production team is casting actors for an upcoming ensemble feature film inspired by the music and cultural influence of The Beatles. The project centers on a character-driven narrative and aims to highlight compelling performances from a diverse ensemble cast.
The production is seeking passionate actors who can contribute to a story focused on emotional depth, relationships, and music-inspired storytelling. This feature film will bring together a collaborative team dedicated to creating a dynamic and engaging cinematic experience.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray characters in a character-driven ensemble feature film
-
Deliver authentic and engaging performances
-
Work closely with the director and production team during filming
-
Participate in rehearsals and production activities as required
Requirements
-
Women – Late teens to 40s
-
Men – Ages 20s to 40s
-
Strong acting ability and on-screen presence
-
Comfortable working in an ensemble cast environment
-
Passion for character-driven storytelling
Compensation
-
Compensation details will be shared with selected talent
Officer for True Crime Recreation Series
Job Description
A non-union true crime recreation series is casting an actor to portray a police officer in a dramatic reenactment filming in Knoxville, Tennessee. This role will involve scenes depicting scripted crime scenarios for network television. The production is seeking an athletic male performer who is comfortable handling prop firearms and performing in scenes that include scripted violence.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray a police officer in a true crime reenactment scene
-
Perform scripted scenes involving crime investigation scenarios
-
Handle prop firearms safely under production supervision
-
Follow direction from the director and production team
-
Maintain professionalism during filming on set
Requirements
-
Black male, ages 20–40
-
Athletic build
-
Comfortable with scripted violence and murder-themed content
-
Must be comfortable handling a prop gun on camera
-
Must be able to work in Knoxville, Tennessee
Compensation
-
$125 per day
-
Hotel provided
Elite Trick Basketball Players
Job Description
A television production is casting elite trick basketball players for background roles in an upcoming project filming in the Los Angeles area. Casting directors are seeking talented basketball performers who can execute impressive trick shots and ball-handling skills on camera. Selected athletes will showcase advanced basketball abilities such as dribbling tricks, spinning multiple basketballs, and creative dunk variations.
Job Responsibilities
-
Perform advanced basketball trick shots and ball-handling skills on camera
-
Demonstrate creative basketball techniques during filming
-
Follow direction from the production team during scenes
-
Participate in basketball performance sequences as part of the background cast
-
Maintain professionalism throughout the filming day
Requirements
-
Must be able to portray elite trick basketball players
-
Ability to perform advanced tricks such as:
-
Trick dribbling
-
Trick shooting
-
Half-court shots
-
Creative dunk variations
-
Spinning basketballs or other freestyle skills
-
-
Must be registered with Central Casting
-
Must be able to work in the Los Angeles area as a local hire
-
Union and non-union submissions accepted
Compensation
-
$300 for 8 hours of work
Athletes for Sportswear Brand E-Commerce Campaign
Job Description
A well-known sportswear brand is casting athletes for an upcoming e-commerce roster refresh campaign. The production is seeking talented athletes who embody strength, diversity, and authentic athletic expression. Selected performers will represent the brand across digital product content and marketing materials. This opportunity is ideal for athletes with strong skills in their sport and a confident on-camera presence.
Sports Categories
-
Running
-
Strength Training
-
Basketball
-
Tennis
-
Golf
-
Soccer
-
Swimming
Job Responsibilities
-
Perform athletic movements related to your sport during the shoot
-
Participate in lifestyle and performance-focused commercial photography and video
-
Follow direction from the production and creative team
-
Represent the sportswear brand in marketing and e-commerce content
-
Maintain professionalism during the production day
Requirements
-
Ages 18–24
-
All genders and ethnicities encouraged to apply
-
Must be US-based and legally able to work in the United States
-
Must be proficient in at least one listed sport
-
Unique, interesting looks encouraged
-
Athletes who embody strength, diversity, natural edge, and expression
Compensation
-
$2,000 for a 10-hour shoot day
-
Plus 20% agency fee if applicable
Nightclub Guests With Luxury Vehicles for NBC Pilot “The Rockford Files”
Job Description
Hylton Casting is also seeking background actors who own luxury vehicles to portray upscale nightclub guests in scenes for the NBC pilot The Rockford Files. These roles will help create a high-end nightlife atmosphere with luxury arrivals outside the nightclub.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray wealthy nightclub guests arriving or departing the venue
-
Provide and use your own luxury vehicle for filming scenes
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Participate in exterior arrival or valet-style scenes
Requirements
-
Must own a luxury vehicle
-
Vehicle must be clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing
-
Must be able to work as a local hire in Atlanta, Georgia
-
Comfortable participating in nightlife arrival scenes
Compensation
-
Paid background role
-
Additional bump for use of a luxury vehicle
Nightclub Patrons for NBC Pilot “The Rockford Files”
Job Description
Hylton Casting is seeking background actors to portray stylish nightclub patrons in upscale nightlife scenes for the NBC pilot The Rockford Files. Filming will take place in Atlanta, Georgia, and the scene will depict a high-end nightclub atmosphere inspired by luxury nightlife settings with a sophisticated European edge.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray upscale nightclub patrons in background scenes
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Participate in nightclub environment scenes with other background actors
-
Wear stylish, fashion-forward attire appropriate for a luxury venue
-
Maintain a professional presence on set throughout filming
Requirements
-
All genders
-
Caucasian talent with Eastern European look preferred
-
Ages 20–40
-
Must be able to work as a local hire in Atlanta, Georgia
-
Comfortable portraying guests in a high-end nightlife environment
Compensation
-
Paid background role (rate provided by production upon booking)
-
Opportunity to appear in a major television pilot production
Job Description
A production team is casting actors for a farm-themed film project filming in Tennessee. The production is seeking performers for two roles, including a young boy and a grandfather figure, for scenes set in a rural environment. The project involves filming on a farm location and requires talent who are comfortable being near livestock and working outdoors.
The production aims to capture authentic rural storytelling and is looking for performers who can naturally portray characters connected to farm life.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray characters in a rural farm setting
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Participate in outdoor scenes on a farm property
-
Maintain professionalism throughout the filming process
Requirements
-
Son – Male, ages 8–13. Slim build. Comfortable climbing fences and working around farm environments. Must be comfortable being near cows and other livestock.
-
Grandpa – Male, late 60s–70s. Lean or sturdy build with average height. Must be comfortable wearing farm-style wardrobe such as boots and denim and being near livestock.
-
Must be comfortable working around cattle (no direct interaction required but will be in close proximity)
-
Ability to bring your own farm-style wardrobe options (Wranglers, boots, hats, etc.)
Compensation
-
$300 per day
Job Description
A university student production is casting actors for the short film The Interface, a suspense-driven story about two students investigating the mysterious disappearance of their friend. As they search for answers, they turn to an online forum that may hold the key to uncovering the truth. The film explores themes surrounding technology, curiosity, and the unknown.
The production is seeking talented performers for lead and supporting roles who can bring depth and realism to a story centered around mystery and investigation.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray characters in a student thriller short film
-
Deliver natural and emotionally engaging performances
-
Work collaboratively with the director and student production team
-
Participate in rehearsals and filming as required
Requirements
-
Alex (Lead) – Female, ages 18–23, any ethnicity. A cautious and analytical thinker who carefully considers every possibility before taking action.
-
Jordan (Lead) – Female, ages 18–23, any ethnicity. Bold and impulsive, often acting first and asking questions later, with a free-spirited personality.
-
Erin (Supporting) – Female, ages 18–23, any ethnicity. Highly analytical with a deep interest in artificial intelligence and technology.
-
Strong interest in acting and collaborative filmmaking
-
Ability to perform in a mystery/thriller narrative
Compensation
-
Unpaid student film project
-
Non-union production
-
Meals provided on set
Job Description
A student documentary project titled Uncredited Dreams is seeking immigrant filmmakers, cinematographers, and media creatives living in Canada to share their personal journeys in the film industry. The documentary explores the experiences of immigrant artists pursuing careers in Canadian cinema, highlighting the challenges, sacrifices, and unexpected paths encountered along the way.
The project aims to give visibility to the voices and stories of immigrant creatives, particularly those from Latin backgrounds, who are working to build careers in film while navigating life far from home.
Job Responsibilities
-
Participate in interviews discussing personal experiences in the film industry
-
Share insights about career challenges, opportunities, and creative journeys as immigrant filmmakers
-
Collaborate with the documentary team during filming or interview sessions
-
Help contribute to a meaningful story highlighting immigrant voices in cinema
Requirements
-
Immigrant filmmakers, cinematographers, or media creatives currently living in Canada
-
Latin creatives are especially encouraged to participate
-
Comfortable sharing personal career experiences and perspectives on camera
-
Interest in contributing to a documentary exploring immigrant experiences in film
Compensation
-
Documentary participation opportunity
-
Experience contributing to a student documentary film project
-
Additional details will be discussed with selected participants
Job Description
A production team is seeking an experienced Line Producer to support an upcoming short proof-of-concept film project. The production is preparing to film toward the end of March and into April and is looking for a skilled professional who can oversee production logistics, budgeting, and coordination to help bring the project to life.
This role is ideal for a producer with experience managing short film productions and ensuring smooth coordination between departments during pre-production and filming.
Job Responsibilities
-
Oversee production planning and scheduling for the short film project
-
Manage budgeting and production logistics
-
Coordinate with the director and production team to ensure efficient workflow
-
Supervise production operations and ensure the project remains on schedule
-
Assist with organizing crew, resources, and filming logistics
Requirements
-
Experience working as a Line Producer or in a similar production management role
-
Strong organizational and leadership skills
-
Ability to manage production schedules, budgets, and logistics
-
Experience working on short film or independent film productions preferred
-
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Compensation
-
Compensation details will be discussed with selected candidates


