Bartholomew County students in grades 9-11 have the opportunity to apply for a program focused on fostering leadership and community involvement.
The Council for Youth Development is accepting applications for its 2022-23 youth ambassador cohort. More information, along with a link to apply, is available at cydbartholomew.org. The application deadline is April 1, and the organization expects to announce the selected ambassadors on April 29.
“We are excited to help youth build their leadership and civic engagement skills through our year-long program for 10-12 grade Bartholomew County students,” said communications and community impact manager Amanda Virostko.
According to a release from CYD, Bartholomew County students currently in the ninth, tenth or eleventh grade are eligible to apply. The program is designed to “engage a diverse group of teens to develop their leadership skills, unique talents, and use their voice to impact Bartholomew County.”
“A potential YA is open to diversity, reliable, empathetic, excited about change and unstoppable with supportive adults and peers,” said CYD officials.
The council’s website also states that ambassadors are leaders among their peers either “quietly or noticeably” and are able to balance ambassador duties with their personal schedules. Ambassadors are responsible for attending 75% of weekly activities and/or meetings over the course of a year and completing community service requirements.
Students are also expected to plan and participate in the Youth Ambassador Retreat, Spark Spirit Week, Youth Empowerment Summit and Global Youth Service Day.
The 2021-22 youth ambassadors’ activities have included writing encouraging messages to incoming freshmen, volunteering at the library’s “Crafts From Around the World” event, providing support at the Bartholomew County School Supply Assistance Program and working with youth empowerment coordinator Tim Green to plan a one-day Youth Empowerment Summit.
“Being a youth ambassador has helped me grow so incredibly much,” said Lillia Stidam, a 2021-22 ambassador and Columbus East senior. “I met so many new friends and became a more confident leader all while being comfortably pushed by our amazing leaders.”
