Applications are now closed! They will open again in the Summer of 2025.
What is the Youth and Young Adult Ambassador Program?
The FY26 Youth and Young Adult Ambassador Program is a National Youth Council (NYC) led initiative designed to empower youth (under 18 years old) and young adults (18–24 years old) within the American Red Cross. This program offers young volunteers the opportunity to collaborate with the National Youth Council, maximizing their impact.
Ambassadors will support regional priorities and actively participate in cohort programming led by NYC Ambassador Program Leads. Ambassadors will gain leadership experience and develop professional skills. The goal of this program is to connect youth volunteers with meaningful opportunities, ensuring their ongoing involvement through different life stages. By fostering a supportive environment, this program aims to nurture the next generation of leaders.
What are the responsibilities of a Youth and Young Adult Ambassador?
Ambassadors will be responsible for supporting regional priorities and national youth campaigns. They will collaborate with the National Youth Council to engage youth volunteers and amplify their stories. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Collaborate with regional leaders to identify and contribute to local youth engagement initiatives
- Join and actively participate in cohort meetings led by the National Youth Council’s Ambassador Program Leads
- Amplify local and national youth campaigns, stories, and events through regional and personal networks
- Attend professional development sessions hosted by the National Youth Council (Ex. Enhance Your Red Cross Resume, Get Involved in Disaster....)
Application Timeline
Interested in joining us? Complete the Youth and Young Adult Ambassador Application Form on Volunteer Connection! Please note that the program is not offered in all regions. Only youth volunteers in participating regions will be able to access and complete the application form on Volunteer Connection.
- Applications open on August 18, 2025
- Applications close on September 5, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET
- All applicants will be notified of their status by late September
Qualification
Below are the required qualifications to apply:
- Reside in a participating region
- Meet the age requirement of 24 years of age or younger
- At least one year of Red Cross volunteer experience
- Experience with Red Cross Clubs or in roles that support youth & young adult engagement
Time Commitment
Time commitment will vary by campaign or initiative. However, general expectations are listed below:
- Approximately 10–15 hours per month
- Biweekly cohort meetings led by the National Youth Council’s Ambassador Program Leads
- Monthly planning calls with program partners
Training
Upon acceptance, the National Youth Council will host onboarding calls for the upcoming Youth and Young Adult Ambassador cohort. During these calls, Ambassadors will learn how to utilize organizational tools (Teams, PowerPoint, etc.) and engage effectively with program partners.
Length of Position
The Youth and Young Adult Ambassador role starts in September 2025 and ends in June 2026.
Development Opportunities
The Youth & Young Adult Ambassador role offers a unique opportuntiy to volunteer with the American Red Cross at both regional and national levels, while providing numerous personal and professional development opportunities, such as:
- Expand Your Network: Connect with a network of youth and young adult volunteers and supporters
- Gain Experience and Build a Resume: Make regional and nationwide impacts through your projects and work
- Opportunity for Personal Growth: Learn and practice professional development skills such as leadership, project and time management, marketing, public speaking, business writing, and networking
- Just to name a few!