Youth Ambassador Program
Youth Ambassador Program
Through the Trust for the National Mall’s Youth Ambassador Program, local high school students work alongside the National Park Service and Trust for the National Mall staff and our expert volunteer docents to get hands on experience caring for and sharing our public land. Selected students undergo training on the history of the National Mall and its legacies and practice sharing those stories with visitors on tthe Mall. With opportunities to shadow rangers, partners, and experienced volunteers, Youth Ambassadors gain a broad understanding of the complexities of managing an urban park, while learning job skills from team members with diverse professions and professional backgrounds. Students gain real-world experience in hospitality, public speaking, interpretation, teamwork, and parks and recreation. The Youth Ambassador Program is an engaging and fun way for highschoolers to fulfill their school’s internship or service requirements on the National Mall.
Special thanks to the Merrill Family Foundation and Congressional Sports for Charity for their support in helping the Trust expand its Youth Ambassador Program.
Past Youth Ambassador Projects on the National Mall
Providing visitor services at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial, Washington Monument, and Lockkeeper’s House
Supporting annual traditions on the National Mall such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Veterans Day, and special events, such as Eisenhower Astronomy Night and Eisenhower Commemorative Birthday Concert
Developing and refining volunteer training materials
Creating program communications, including social media posts and newsletter content
Inventorying and reporting needs across the park
Youth Ambassador Expectations
Interest in pursuing a career in natural or cultural resources, parks administration, history, museum studies, or a related field
Friendly, welcoming, and excited to interact with visitors from around the world
Serve at least 60 hours over 12 weeks at a consistent, predetermined schedule
Current high school junior or senior
Ability to travel to the National Mall on at least a weekly basis
Consistent communication with supervisors
Apply to be a Youth Ambassador on the National Mall
To apply for the Youth Ambassador Program, please express interest via email to volunteer@nationalmall.org.
Thank you!