The Solon E. Summerfield Foundation engages in grant partnerships in the NYC-Metro area that seek to transform systems and pathways of opportunity so that young people most impacted by social, racial, and economic injustice can live choice-filled lives.

NYC Salt

What We Fund

Reel Works
Grantee Spotlight
Reel Works

Reel Works mentors, inspires, and empowers NYC youth to share their stories through filmmaking, creating a springboard to successful careers in media and beyond. The organization matches teens one-on-one with professional filmmaker mentors to tell their stories and have their voices heard. It is a powerful combination that changes young lives and creates films that have been seen by tens of millions of viewers worldwide. Building on its successful program tools and methods, Reel Works broadens its reach and impact and diversifies the media industry through MediaMKRS: Building Pathways For Careers in Media. Through MediaMKRS, young people receive training from industry leaders, educations, and local government and gain industry credentials. They also gain work experience through sequential, paid work experiences at leading media companies. Participants receive industry-based badges that align with nationwide workforce standards and show employers specific skills they have gained through learning experiences. MediaMKRS also partners with employers and unions to provide job training for specific careers in media. Reel Works recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary by presenting a series of short films of the most inspiring films and filmmakers.

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