Community-Powered Information + Media

Welcome to Newark News & Stories

At Newark News & Stories, we're not just a community organization, we're a movement dedicated to empowering the residents of Newark with news and media that is as dynamic and diverse as our community itself. Our conviction is strong: everyone deserves access to trustworthy and high-quality information that keeps them informed, connected, and actively engaged in the vibrant life of Newark.

Our commitment to this mission is brought to life through two innovative programs: the Community Storytelling & Media Fellowship and the Community Canvassing Program. Learn more about our story here.

OUR MISSION

To empower every resident of Newark with stories and media that not only informs and connects but also celebrates and elevates our community.

Join us, and be part of crafting a narrative that's authentically Newark.

A New Chapter: Empowering Newark's Youth for a Brighter Future


Newark News & Stories, in partnership with Five Wards Media, is proud to unveil our reimagined mission, focusing on empowering Newark's youth. In a city as vibrant and diverse as Newark, the voices and talents of our young residents are the keys to shaping a resilient and inclusive community narrative. Our renewed mission emphasizes creating opportunities for those affected by harm, trauma, and justice to express themselves, heal, and thrive.

Our Mission: A Youth-Centric Approach

We are evolving into a BIPOC-led nonprofit social enterprise that champions digital storytelling and multimedia as powerful tools for change. Our aim is to forge a nurturing ecosystem where Newark's youth, particularly those navigating the challenges of poverty and violence, can access education, employment, and avenues for creative expression in the media arts.

Creating Pathways to Success

Our vision is to create a future where Newark's youth are not defined by the challenges they face but by their contributions to their community and culture. By equipping them with the necessary media skills and opportunities for meaningful employment, we aim to transform Newark into a hub of innovation, creativity, and social justice.

Our Collaborative Efforts: Building a More Equitable Media Landscape

The heart of our work lies in community engagement and storytelling. Through our initiatives, we not only aim to address information disparities but also to heal and empower. Our programs offer safe spaces for those affected by harm and injustice to share their stories, contributing to a more equitable and understanding community.

Empowering Through Storytelling and Media Arts

Our initiative is grounded in the belief that storytelling and media arts are essential for addressing the systemic issues of inequality and racism. By offering comprehensive training, mentorship, paid fellowships, and internships, we provide a platform for Newark's youth to harness their creativity and perspectives, turning them into compelling narratives that reflect and enrich their communities.

Who We Are: Amplifying Newark's Stories

Five Wards Media continues to stand as a pillar of community-focused journalism in Newark, spotlighting stories and issues that resonate deeply with residents. Our collaboration with the city's youth and those impacted by systemic injustices is more than a mission—it's a commitment to lifting every voice and honoring the rich tapestry of experiences that define Newark.

Join Us on This Transformative Journey

As we embark on this journey towards a youth-focused future, we invite you to be part of this transformative movement. Whether through participation in our programs, sharing your story, or supporting our mission, your involvement is crucial to the success of this endeavor. Together, let's empower the next generation of Newark's storytellers, change-makers, and leaders.

For more information about our programs, upcoming application deadlines, or how to become a facilitator, please get in touch with projectmanager@newarkstories.com. Let's work together to uplift and center the voices of Newark's youth, crafting a narrative of hope, resilience, and unity.

Community Storytelling & Media Fellowship

Are you a Newark resident with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to community engagement? Our Community Media Fellowship is calling your name. Here, you'll be immersed in an environment of learning and practice, guided by seasoned journalists and media experts. You'll dive into the heart of Newark's untold stories, bringing to light the diverse experiences that shape our city. As a fellow, you'll emerge with not just a robust portfolio, but with the satisfaction of having made a tangible impact on your community.

Community Canvassing Program

If you're someone who keeps their ears on the ground and the voice for the unheard, our Community Canvassing Program is your arena. As a canvasser, you'll engage directly with residents, conducting surveys to capture their voices and discover their needs. You'll become a conduit for information, connecting people to vital resources, organizations, and services that enrich their lives. This program is more than a learning opportunity—it's your chance to weave stronger, more informed, and more connected communities.

Empowerment Through Engagement

Both our Community Media Fellowship and Community Canvassing Program are more than initiatives—they are opportunities for the people of Newark to sharpen their media skills, to engage deeply with their neighbors, and to co-create the narratives that truly represent our collective journey.

Join us today and help empower Newark residents through community-centered stories and media!

The Newark News & Story Collaborative is funded by:

Project Partners + Collaborators

We must see ourselves in news & media in order to engage and reimagine it.

DONATE

Your financial contribution helps us produce quality news and information about Newark’s communities, and equip residents with the media skills to tell their own stories.