Youth Program Ambassador | Steps Foundation

High school students leading with heart, purpose, and action.

A student leadership program for high schoolers ready to serve, speak up, and make a difference in their schools and communities.

Whats Offered

More Details

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Leadership Starts With Showing Up

The Youth Program Ambassador initiative empowers high school students in grades 9–12 to become changemakers in their schools and local communities. Ambassadors serve as student leaders within Step's Foundation programs, helping lead initiatives, mentor their peers, share their voices, and represent youth needs across everything we do.

Whether you're leading your first group activity or stepping onto a stage to speak, this program is here to help you grow into a leader who leads with confidence, compassion, and purpose.

What the Program Offers

Leadership in Action

Skills/Activities Taught:

Leading group sessions and community events
Representing peers in planning and decision-making
Collaborating with adults and professionals

Benefits:

Builds hands-on leadership experience
Boosts confidence and communication skills
Encourages responsibility and accountability

Youth Voice & Advocacy

Skills/Activities Taught:

Speaking on behalf of peers in youth spaces
Participating in panels or focus groups
Learning how to advocate for change in school or community

Benefits:

Empowers students to share their perspectives
Encourages civic engagement and self-advocacy
Helps students make a real impact on issues that matter to them

Peer Mentorship & Team Building

Skills/Activities Taught:

Welcoming and guiding new students in programs
Supporting teamwork and collaboration
Participating in leadership retreats or workshops

Benefits:

Fosters empathy and social connection
Strengthens public speaking and facilitation skills
Builds leadership through service and support

Community Engagement

Skills/Activities Taught:

Volunteering and organizing service projects
Partnering with local organizations
Representing STEPS Foundation at community events

Benefits:

Instills pride and ownership in giving back
Builds professional relationships with local leaders
Strengthens resumes and college applications

Program Details & Schedule

Program Responsibilities

Ambassadors play an active role in shaping the programs and events they support. Here’s what you’ll be involved in:

Represent Step's Foundation at school, community events, and youth programs
Promote Step's Foundation services and support recruitment and outreach
Attend monthly Youth Ambassador meetings
Attend at least 2 Board of Directors meetings per year
Help organize and participate in initiatives like resource fairs, drives, parades, and workshops
Assist with creating social media content and PSAs on youth issues (mental health, violence prevention, etc.)
Serve on subcommittees and complete leadership projects
Connect peers to services and support systems
Maintain communication with staff, youth, and families

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

Students in grades 9–12
Residing in Central Florida (Osceola, Orange, Polk counties)
May apply the summer after 8th grade to begin in 9th the new school year
Passionate about service, advocacy, and making a difference
Available for a 1-year term (with option to reapply for a second year)

Only 10 Ambassadors are selected annually.

Application Requirements

How to Apply

Complete the online application
Submit 1 letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, employer, or community leader
Write a short essay: Why do you want to become a Youth Program Ambassador?

If selected, there will be additional forms for students and parents to sign.

Apply Here

Selection Process

What Happens Next

Applications will be reviewed by our program team
Selected students will be invited to an interview
Parent/guardian phone call will confirm support and commitment

Final acceptance notifications will follow.

Ready to Join? Here’s How to Get Started.

Take the First Step Toward a Stronger Future.

Program Perks

Why It’s Worth It

Leadership & advocacy training
Community service hours
Access to local conferences and youth-led events
Public speaking opportunities
Networking with professionals and changemakers
Resume building and letters of recommendation
Real impact in the lives of youth and families
A chance to leave a legacy in your community