Youth Ambassador Program

Empowering the next generation of advocates

The Youth Ambassador Program brought together 25 young leaders from across Missouri, spanning 8th to 12th grade, to develop advocacy skills, build confidence, and strengthen connections within their communities.

Through 5 months of hands-on training, participants learned about policy, leadership, and the impact of trauma and toxic stress on their communities, equipping them to drive meaningful change.

Program outcomes

The program not only shaped future advocates but also encouraged participants to take on leadership roles in their schools, churches, and communities. Parents reported seeing their children become more engaged, empathetic, and proactive in making a difference.

Participants reported:

Increased knowledge about advocacy, and the impact of trauma and toxic stress on individuals and their community
Increased confidence in advocacy skills and leadership abilities
More involvement and connections with their peers and the community

Watch the impact

See firsthand how the program transformed these young leaders.

“I feel like as a leader, I’m able to look at people in a different way to help me understand what they’re going
through or what they might have been through.”

Gabriall, 10th Grader, Ritenour High School, St. Louis

25 youth ambassadors

94%

94% of students reported having high or very high knowledge about advocacy after completing the program.

82%

82% reported high or very high knowledge the impact of trauma and toxic stress on the brain and body

8 local and state legislative officials across St. Louis and Kansas City spoke to the students about creating change in their communities.

By the numbers

Youth participants left the program with greater knowledge of advocacy, trauma, and toxic stress, along with a stronger sense of confidence in their leadership and communication skills. They also built meaningful connections with peers and community leaders, deepening their engagement in local change efforts.

To download a PDF report of the impact of the 2024 Youth Ambassador program, use the button below.

2024 Youth Ambassador Report

As we continue to grow the Youth Ambassador Program, we look forward to expanding ambassador opportunities and deepening community partnerships and funding to sustain our impact.

Get Involved

Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation

Are you a parent, educator, funder, or youth-serving organization interested in supporting our work? Want to bring youth advocacy or healthcare education programs to your community?

Let’s connect and build the future together.

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