HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful are rolling out the welcome mat for high school students to step up as the next generation of environmental caretakers. Through the Young Ambassadors of Pennsylvania program, students in grades 10 through 12 are offered a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in their communities, fostering a cleaner and more beautiful state.
Now entering its third year, the program is not just about cleaning up litter; it’s about building a cadre of young leaders equipped with the skills and connections to steer Pennsylvania toward a sustainable future. “Pennsylvania needs leaders,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll stated, highlighting the critical role that young people play in driving long-term environmental sustainability. His sentiment reflects a broader recognition of the urgency with which we must address environmental challenges, from waste management to preserving natural landscapes, and the pivotal role the younger generation plays in this endeavor.
The Young Ambassadors program stands out by offering more than just volunteer opportunities. It’s a comprehensive leadership and development initiative, providing participants with training, networking opportunities with industry leaders, state agencies, and local media, and a platform to implement meaningful change in their communities. This hands-on approach aims to cultivate not only a sense of responsibility but also the practical skills necessary for effective civic engagement and problem-solving.
Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, underscored the diversity and potential of the students involved in the program, stating, “It has been enlightening to work with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures through our Young Ambassador program.” This diversity enriches the program, bringing a wide range of perspectives and ideas to the table, crucial for tackling complex environmental issues.
Selected ambassadors will embark on a journey from September 2024 through May 2025, during which they will attend six mandatory virtual education sessions, conduct a community assessment, organize a cleanup event, and host an educational event or activity. These responsibilities, while challenging, are designed to empower students, providing them with a real-world context to apply their skills and passions.
Moreover, the program offers additional non-mandatory education sessions covering a broad spectrum of topics, including the impact of litter on roadways, waste management, recycling, and social media marketing. Such comprehensive training not only prepares the ambassadors for their immediate tasks but also lays the groundwork for their future roles as environmental and community leaders.
A notable feature of the program is the partnership with Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, funded by the NiSource Charitable Foundation, which provides selected ambassadors with Job Shadow Days. These experiences offer invaluable insights into the professional world, further enhancing the program’s appeal as a career development opportunity.
The Young Ambassadors program, recommended in the Commonwealth’s Litter Action Plan announced by the Governor’s Office in November 2021, represents a proactive and forward-thinking response to environmental challenges. Funded by PennDOT, the program is a testament to the state’s commitment to not only addressing litter and environmental degradation but also investing in the leaders of tomorrow.
As the application window remains open until June 10, students across Pennsylvania are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to their communities, develop their leadership skills, and take a stand for the environment. In doing so, they join a growing movement of young environmental stewards committed to shaping a more sustainable and vibrant future for Pennsylvania.
This initiative marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between environmental advocacy and actionable change, highlighting the critical role of youth engagement in driving societal progress. As these young ambassadors embark on their journey, they not only aim to keep Pennsylvania beautiful but also inspire others to take up the mantle of environmental stewardship, proving that when it comes to making a difference, age is but a number.
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