At Amachi Pittsburgh, we understand that young people have the inborn capacity to cope with challenges they face, to create opportunities for themselves, and to improve and transform their communities. Amachi Ambassadors engage, educate and empower young people to raise awareness and education about the impact of parental incarceration on children, families, and communities. Our Ambassadors strive to improve services and shift policies and systems that affect their lives.

Why Become an Amachi Ambassador?

Please email info@AmachiPgh.org with any questions and for more information!

Requirements

  • 14-18 years old or 9th -12th grade who has been affected by parental / caregiver incarceration
  • Resides in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
  • Demonstrates a desire to participate in the program and a willingness to abide by all Amachi Pittsburgh policies and procedures
  • Able to obtain parent/guardian permission
  • Willing to attending and participate in ongoing Amachi Ambassadors events and activities
  • Willing to communicate regularly with program staff

Program Details

Cost

The Amachi Ambassadors Program is FREE to all youth. The cost for the program and all activities and events has been underwritten through grants from The Heinz Endowments and Three Rivers Community Foundation.

Intake

    There is no deadline for intake; youth are accepted into the Ambassadors program on a rolling basis.
    The Amachi Ambassadors Coordinator will review all completed intake forms. Youth will then receive a follow-up phone call as well as all other necessary forms, which must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the Amachi Ambassadors Coordinator prior to participating in Ambassador activities and events.

 

Attendance

Youth who attend regularly will benefit most. Youth are expected to arrive on time to all Ambassador events.

Behavior

Amachi Ambassadors provides an inclusive and safe space where all are respected. The following are prohibited when acting on behalf of or representing the Amachi Ambassadors Program and/or Amachi Pittsburgh:

  1. Possession or use of any alcohol, tobacco, and/or illegal drugs.
  2. Use of abusive, obscene, and discriminatory and offensive language.
  3. Harassment (visual, verbal, or physical) on another person.
  4. Behavior that is illegal and/or unsafe.

Any violations may result in permanent removal from the program. This decision is made at the discretion of the Amachi Ambassadors Coordinator and/or Amachi Pittsburgh Staff.

Transportation

Bus tickets will be provided to youth to travel to and from Ambassador Saturdays and other related activities and events. Youth are expected to use the bus tickets to travel to and from these events only.

Meals

Meals and beverages will be provided at each Ambassador Saturday and related events.

Ready to Apply?

Interested but want to learn more?