For Schools/Organizations

What is Presenting Film? 

We are an organization that pairs schools and youth programs with entertainment industry volunteers to create film clubs for underserved youth. By providing the necessary infrastructure and resources – including an extensive catalogue of discussion guides for films of all genres – we facilitate the volunteering process for young professionals and leverage their expertise in film to help expose youth to the power of cinema. 

What is a film club? 

Film clubs provide the opportunity for students to watch and critique curated films under the guidance of an entertainment professional. Meetings are composed of weekly or bi-weekly screenings, followed by a 15 to 30-minute discussion led by club volunteers. Conversations are structured around building enthusiasm and appreciation for both the technical craft and the cultural value of cinema of all varieties - we aim to make film and its industry exciting and accessible!

Who are the volunteers? 

Volunteers are young professionals working in leading film and TV studios who want to give back to their local communities. They are heavily vetted and receive training prior to entering the program. Equipped with in-depth Presenting Film discussion guides and existing insight into film analysis, they are able to add credibility to and facilitate an engaging conversation in a manner which regular volunteers may not be able to do.

What are the benefits? 

Learning the language of film in an educational setting enables the personal development of children and young adults in a variety of ways. In particular, Presenting Film focuses on assisting students in developing the following qualities: 

•     Confidence expressing opinions

• Story analysis capabilities

• Listening skills

• Enjoyment in learning

  
  

In addition, students develop an awareness of the historic and cultural relevance of the stories being told – a focal point to their education.

What type of films are analyzed? 

Our catalogue is constantly expanding! The goal is to start with easily accessible movies and progress into more complicated subject matter over the course of the program.

What’s the typical length of the program? How often do clubs meet? 

A typical curriculum will usually consist of six to ten total films as this ensures ample time for students to improve their film literacy skills. How each film is approached depends on the time constraints of your organization and we are happy to tailor the program to your needs! In the past, clubs have met on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, with films watched in their entirety or split up into two sessions depending on the schedule of students. 

What age range are clubs geared to? 

Ages 7-18.

Where do clubs meet? 

Volunteers travel to the location of the students. We match volunteers and organizations based on their locations to avoid delays and ensure punctuality.

Does it cost any money? 

Nope! Volunteers are unpaid and Presenting Film provides the necessary materials for club meetings.

How do I register? 

Click here to access the signup form. If you have any additional questions please reach out to info@presentingfilm.com.

For Volunteers

What is Presenting Film? 

We are an organization that pairs schools and youth programs with entertainment industry volunteers to create film clubs for underserved youth. By providing the necessary infrastructure and resources – including an extensive catalogue of discussion guides for films of all genres – we facilitate the volunteering process for young professionals and leverage their expertise in film to help expose youth to the power of cinema. 

Why volunteer? 

As a young professional in the entertainment industry this is a great opportunity to give back to the community using a topic that you are passionate about.

Film can play a crucial role in a child’s education and we sometimes forget that not all children are afforded this privilege. Through Presenting Film, you will be assisting youth learn the language of film and help them develop the following qualities in the process: 

•  Confidence expressing opinions

• Story analysis capabilities

• Listening skills

• Enjoyment in learning

  
  

In addition, you will help students develop an awareness of the historic and cultural relevance of the stories being told – a focal point to their education.

What’s the usual time commitment? 

Clubs usually meet on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. The duration of each meeting varies from club to club; some will prefer to watch the film in one viewing, others will prefer to split it into two. Volunteers will have five to ten minutes to introduce the film, stay with the club for the screening, and then lead a fifteen- to thirty-minute discussion after the film. 

Exact meeting times can be arranged with organizations based on your preferences – we will work to pair you with a match that suits your schedule.

Where do we meet?

Volunteers are expected to travel to school locations. We will pair you up with a convenient location to minimize your travel time.

Do I have to prepare discussions in advance? 

Discussion questions are provided by Presenting Film to ensure minimum prep time for volunteers (we know how busy everyone is!). You can simply show up, watch the movie, and facilitate the discussion.

That being said, volunteers are always welcome to take a more active role in preparation and helping us create and modify discussion guides for future sessions. 

Do I get to choose what films we watch? 

Yes, so long as the films are approved by Presenting Film and school/organization you are volunteering with. We have an extensive catalogue of existing discussion guides and are happy to create more if your desired film is not on the list. 

How do I register? 

Click here to access the signup form!