Fred Rogers Productions Launches Writers’ Neighborhood

Fred Rogers Productions has officially launched the Writers’ Neighborhood, a five-year initiative focused on identifying and supporting new and emerging writers from underrepresented racial groups.

The eight-week program will help hone the skills and broaden the experience of creatives who represent the diverse audience for the company’s own hit series such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Alma’s Way and Donkey Hodie. Following the successful pilot program last fall, applications for a new cohort will be accepted from May 1 to May 15.

The Writers’ Neighborhood will welcome eight fellows per cohort. They will learn to be intentional in their writing process, determine context for a series when they are not on a production staff, interpret and take notes and various other skills, including how to find and secure jobs in the field. Beyond the program, Fred Rogers Productions will offer additional mentorship connections and opportunities to engage in industry activities and events.

The program is open to individuals ages 21 and older as of the entry date. They must be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.; not have had extensive media writing experience such as having written more than four episodes for a U.S.-based network or cable scripted series; and identify with an underrepresented racial group (Asian, Pacific Islander, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American/Indigenous, Middle Eastern/North African or multiracial).

“Many writers in children’s media are freelancers, so we designed the Writers’ Neighborhood with a dual focus of developing your craft and building your career,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer of Fred Rogers Productions. “Knowing how to write a good story or develop engaging characters is a completely different skill set from finding work, asking for and understanding feedback or cultivating relationships, and we want to help our fellows gain experience on all fronts.”