Job Type
Full-time, Part-time
Description
Job Title : Justice Media Specialist
Location : Chicago Job Type : Full-Time / Part-Time
Reports to : PREP Program Manager | Direct Reports : none
About Us :
God Restoring Order (GRO) Community is a mental healthcare provider that specializes in trauma recovery services for males of color ages 5 and up. GRO services are grounded in an understanding of the neurological, biological and psychological effects of trauma. GRO services include mental health and wellness, stress management, and community outreach.
Position Summary :
GRO Community is launching a transformative publication created by and for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men amplifying their voices through real stories, resources, and creative expression. As the Justice Media Specialist, you will play a key role in developing, designing, and managing this magazine from concept to distribution. This position blends editorial strategy, content creation, visual design, and project coordination to support GRO's mission of reentry, empowerment, and systemic healing. The ideal candidate is a skilled communicator and visual storyteller with a passion for justice reform and a deep respect for lived experience. You will collaborate with contributors, reentry partners, and internal teams to produce high-impact, culturally sensitive media that informs, inspires, and supports reintegration.
Key Responsibilities :
Editorial Development & Content Management
- Research relevant publications to inform tone, style, and content direction
- Co-develop thematic outlines and article categories with editorial leadership
- Interview justice-impacted individuals to inspire and inform content ideas
- Draft, revise, and edit feature articles, captions, headlines, and callouts
- Coordinate and manage the article submission and review process
- Fact-check all editorial content to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Maintain an up-to-date editorial style guide for consistent voice and formatting
- Analyze audience feedback and contribute to post-publication debriefs
Design & Layout Support
Develop visual concepts and layout templates for the magazineDesign individual article layouts and overall magazine pages using tools like Adobe InDesign or CanvaEnsure typography, spacing, and formatting align with accessibility and storytelling goals.Prepare print-ready files and digital assets for distributionCollaborate cross-functionally with marketing, reentry and clinical programs teams to integrate text and visualsProject Coordination & Community Engagement
Assist with production schedules, editorial timelines, and workflow managementLiaise with reentry programs, contributors, and external partnersContribute to community outreach efforts to expand contributor and reader engagementSupport fundraising or grant-related efforts tied to magazine sustainabilityCompetencies :
Cultural Sensitivity : Demonstrates empathy, respect, and cultural awareness when working with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. Recognizes and honors diverse lived experiences and backgroundsStorytelling & Messaging : Ability to craft compelling narratives that align with the magazine's mission. Effectively communicates stories that inspire, inform, and engage a broad audienceEditorial Judgment : Applies sound decision-making regarding content accuracy, tone, ethics, and alignment with editorial goals. Maintains high standards for clarity, consistency, and integrity in all written workDesign Proficiency : Demonstrates strong visual communication skills, including layout design, typography, and use of color. Proficient in industry-standard tools such as Adobe InDesign, Canva, or similar platformsProject Coordination : Efficiently manages multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities. Keeps editorial workflows organized and supports production schedules to ensure timely deliveryCollaboration & Teamwork : Works effectively with cross-functional teams, including writers, designers, editors, and external partners. Communicates clearly and respectfully, contributing to a positive team dynamicAdaptability : Responds flexibly to feedback, shifting deadlines, and evolving project needs. Maintains professionalism and focus in a dynamic, mission-driven environmentWork Setting :
This role requires a combination of remote and in-office workOccasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet publishing deadlines or attend community eventsQualifications :
Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Graphic Design, Communications, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be consideredMinimum of 1-2 years of experience in publishing, editorial writing, design, communications, or justice-related media workProficiency in Adobe InDesign, Canva, or equivalent design toolsExcellent writing, editing, and visual communication skillsStrong organizational skills and attention to detailFamiliarity with criminal justice reform, reentry issues, or storytelling for marginalized communitiesPreferred Qualifications :
Lived experience with incarceration or reentryBilingual proficiency (English / Spanish or other languages).Experience working in nonprofit or community-driven media initiativesUnderstanding of trauma-informed communication principlesWhat We Offer :
Competitive salary and benefits packageA supportive and dynamic work environment committed to social impactOpportunities for professional development and growthHow to Apply :
At GRO Community, we believe in healing through empowerment and innovation. Our work centers on serving individuals and families with compassion and integrity. Join our team to make a meaningful impact while building your professional skills in a supportive and mission-driven environment.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience to grosources@grocommunity.org.