Kids’ Chance has nearly one thousand volunteers pitching in across the country at the state and national level to help the kids of injured workers achieve their educational goals. We would not exist without the passion and dedication of our volunteers.

But organizing, inspiring, and leading groups of volunteers at the state level can be challenging. One way some state organizations have been able to leverage their volunteer base has been to formalize the process as an ambassador program.

Kids’ Chance of Florida (KCFL) first introduced the idea in 2016, a year after they were founded. 

“We wanted a vehicle that would expand our reach within the state, to both spread the word and help raise funds for the organization,” says Bob Wilson, a member of the KCFL Board of Directors. “We also recognized it could be a potential development tool for future KCFL board members.”

Each potential Ambassador is vetted by a KCFL board member, including an interview with either the board member or current president. Once approved, each new Ambassador meets with the president and goes through a training process to ensure they know what is expected of them in the role.

One member of the KCFL board is responsible for managing the Ambassador program. There are quarterly meetings just for the Ambassadors, but they also communicate frequently with emails in between meetings. KCFL makes very specific asks of their volunteers, which is helpful for ensuring that important tasks are completed. 

Ambassadors staff tables at events and conferences, share Kids’ Chance with their co-workers and their network, serve as guest speakers to talk about Kids’ Chance, raise awareness, and serve on the Student Engagement committee. 

“The ambassadors are a good mix of individuals from the workers compensation industry and also other areas,” says April Goran, KCFL Director of Programs. “They bring awareness to what we do at KCFL and why it’s important.”

This year, KCFL’s Ambassador Program boasts 17 volunteers. One former Ambassador, Tammy Boyd, is now on their board of directors serving as treasurer.

Other states are taking notice, including Kids’ Chance of Nevada (KCNV) whose inaugural Ambassador program is getting off the ground with two volunteers. 

“The idea for this really grew out of frustration,” says Rosemarie McMorris, KCNV President. “There was a need to formalize the volunteer role in order to create accountability. We also wanted a way to vet future board members to ensure that those we elect will take their role seriously.”

When a volunteer expresses interest in the program, Rosemarie meets with them to discuss the potential role. They are asked to provide a bio and a “why” statement that is then reviewed by the board before they vote on their appointment. Every new Ambassador is assigned to a committee and expected to participate during their one-year commitment.

Participating as an Ambassador helps the volunteers see what being involved with KCNV is truly about, the level of commitment required to be on the board, and determine if this is something they truly want to do. At the same time, the board is able to evaluate the Ambassador in the same capacity so that an informed decision may be made when it is time for the election.

Interested in launching an Ambassador program in your state? Kids’ Chance of America (KCOA) put together a Brand Ambassadors Guide to help you.