2025 Ambassador Selection Digital Packet

Ambassador Selection Class of 2026 Amplify Student Voice • Activate Civic Engagement Empower Positive Change

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CONTENTS LETTER OF GRATITUDE

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OUR WHY + LEADERSHIP CONTINUUM

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MISSION + MODEL

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SOCIAL IMPACT SINCE 2011

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SELECTION PROCESS

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SELECTION CRITERIA

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SELECTION DATES & MILESTONES

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ADDENDUM

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(617) 387 - 7100 info@project351.org www.project351.org

Dear Educator, Thank you for the time and care you annually invest to select your community’s eighth grade unsung hero(es) as Project 351 Ambassador(s). We’re eager to welcome them as a member of the Class of 2026 and excited for a transformational year of social impact and service joy!

This Selection Packet includes guidance on Project 351, the Ambassador’s 12-month Leadership Journey, and the selection process.

As tradition, we strongly encourage educator selection rather than a student application process!

These key dates will help ensure a successful orientation and Launch Day for your Ambassador(s): Wednesday, October 22nd, 4:00 pm: Educator Informational Call.

Friday, November 7th: Deadline for Ambassador Selection via this online link.

November – January: Ambassador warm welcome and orientation (virtual).

Saturday, January 17, 2026: We unite the Class of 2026 in Boston for a high-energy, awe-inspiring Launch and Service Day in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.!

As a reminder, Project 351 is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. There is no cost for participation for the Ambassador, family, or school district.

Once your selection form is submitted, we’ll mail your Ambassador's orange welcome packet to you to present in celebration of their selection! And with that...their 12-month leadership journey begins!

With gratitude, Carolyn Casey Founder & Executive Director

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Project 351 meets them at a critical inflection point: the intersection of this tumultuous time and the start of their self-determination as young adults.

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The five-year Leadership Continuum begins in the eighth grade, uniting unsung heroes representing the Commonwealth’s 351 rural, urban, suburban, and island communities.

Immersive leadership, challenging enrichment, and mentorship fortifies their courage and capabilities as an architect for transformative impact. And prepares them for success in college, career, and a lifetime of change making.

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I P C nn ro ol o g la va ra bo ti m ra on it & io n

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Sc Ci ho vi ol c -B En a gi sed ne

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The 35ONE generation has been uniquely challenged by social unrest, political polarization, and a fractured national community. The pandemic, youth mental health crisis, school shootings, and a rise in identity-based bias and discrimination have informed and motivated their activism for greater unity, equity, and opportunity.

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The Urgency of Now

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Proven Model of Impact: 35ONE Leadership Continuum E N R I C H M E N T

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M E N T O R S H I P

MAISARAH Rahman Quincy

VANESSA Lee Norton

JAY Patel Holliston

Ambassador 8th Grade

Playbook Trainer High School

Alumni Leadership Council High School

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E X P E R I E N T I A L

L E A D E R S H I P

PALAK Yadav Medway Barnard College

Corporal NOAH Avila, Norton

Connor Schoen Westborough

Leadership Team Co-Founder, STEMMIES

U.S. Marine Corps Service

Co-Founder, Breaktime Career

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A YOUTH-LEDMOVEMENT FOR CHANGE

PROJECT 351 is a transformative leadership development program that cultivates a new generation of change makers, civic leaders, and social entrepreneurs. By effort and example, 35ONE leaders forge strategies and solutions that build a more just, inclusive, and equitable world.

Project 351’s leadership model – the only one of its kind in the nation – begins with an intentional journey of service, civic engagement, and leadership development for eighth grade unsung heroes (Ambassadors) representing the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns. For a year’s term, Ambassadors unite to build the skills, knowledge, empathy, and courage required to lead bold change.

Transformed by their Ambassador year, high school Alumni continue to develop skills and lead statewide social change through our Leadership Continuum. A robust portfolio of leadership, service, and career development opportunities engage high school Alumni as capacity builders, mentors, and program leaders.

Powered by purpose, members of our Alumni community lead as founders of innovative nonprofits and foundations, social and racial justice activists, enlisted military and AmeriCorps members, and mission-driven professionals in education, environment, and global health.

“Service builds communities, breaks barriers, and brings humanity together.

At Project 351, I’ve learned how to lead and have been given a lifetime of hope.

I have found myself and my place in the world.”

ANIKA • BRAINTREE

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“Society is in urgent need of young people that dare to stand up to injustice.”

Benson Chang ‘22 Alumni Leadership Council • Norton

A Force for Transformative Good Project 351 is a youth-led movement of unifying social change.

We develop diverse leaders of courage, compassion, and skill who build a more just, inclusive, and equitable world.

SINCE 2011,

5,586 SERVED

1,500,430 neighbors

DEVELOPED

the skills, confidence, & courage to lead & succeed as agents of positive change

FOSTERED a culture of kindness & compassion in hundreds of schools & communities

MOBILIZED

332,266 classmates & peers in service

UNITED

the Commonwealth through a shared vision for greater equity, access & inclusion

COMMITTED to a lifetime of civic responsibility & service

KINDNESS • COMPASSION • HUMILITY • GRATITUDE

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SELECTION PROCESS 1. Review Criteria Ambassadors are unsung heroes and quiet leaders with a passion for making a difference! They’re eager to learn, serve, and lead; and excited for a year of friendship and transformational impact

2. Designate a School-based Selection Team Collaborate with administrators, guidance counselors, and educators to select an Ambassador to represent your community.

3. Select Ambassador & Confirm Participation Share the good news with your Ambassador! Confirm they’re able to attend Launch Day on January 17th and have family permission to participate in Project 351.

4. Submit online Selection Form here by November 7th We’re grateful for your timely submission of the Selection Form! This will ensure your student’s engagement in Ambassador orientation and strengthen their preparedness for Launch Day!

5. Celebrate & build excitement for the year ahead!

An “Ambassador Welcome Packet” with comprehensive information will be mailed to your school. The packet includes a “Certificate of Congratulations” for your signature and presentation to the Ambassador. We invite you to share photos of your recognition on social media!

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AMBASSADOR PROFILE • SELECTION CRITERIA

Thank you for your belief...

in the power and potential of young people.

With your essential partnership, Project 351 amplifies student voice, activates civic engagement, and empowers youth-led change.

The heart of our movement is a remarkable community of eighth grade Ambassadors, recognized by you as unsung heroes and quiet leaders their passion to make a difference and values of kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude. We are deeply grateful for the time, care, and intention you invest to select your community’s unsung hero and quiet leader.

NOTE: There is NO COST for participation for the Ambassador, family, or school district.

SELECTION CRITERIA: Exemplify the values of kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude.

Demonstrate a strong ethic of service. We seek aspiring change-makers who have shown a unique passion and commitment to others and a cause greater than self.

Service may include efforts at school, through extracurricular organizations, at their house of worship, or personal service to family because of unique or challenging circumstances.

Has initiative, can work independently, and values and enjoys teamwork.

Reflect strong potential and desire to learn and lead.

Represent the rich diversity of the Commonwealth and your community.

REQUIREMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES: Eighth grade student Permission and support of family/guardian Support of an Educator Mentor Participation in Project 351’s Launch & Service Day on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

Commitment to participate in 12-month leadership journey, which includes leadership development, mentorship, community building, and three Ambassador-led service projects in their hometown

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SELECTION DATES & MILESTONES Wednesday, October 22 • 4:00 pm Educator Info Call via Zoom

Friday, November 7 Ambassador Selection

Tuesday, November 25 • 5:30 pm Class of 2026 Welcome Call via Zoom Wednesday, December 10 • 6:00 pm Class of 2026 Welcome Call via Zoom (for those who were unable to join the November 25th call) Monday, January 12, 2026 • 7:00 pm Countdown to Launch Call via Zoom Saturday, January 17, 2026 in Boston 16th Annual Launch & Service Day in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King & in celebration of the Ambassador Class of 2026!

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ADDENDUM AMBASSADOR JOURNEY (BY MONTH)

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OVERVIEW OF LAUNCH DAY

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REFLECTIONS ON LEADERSHIP

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THE

AMBASSADOR LEADERSHIP JOURNEY

Congratulations, Ambassador, & welcome to 35ONE! Get ready for a life-changing year of leadership, service, and friendship!

January 17

February

March

LAUNCH & SERVICE DAY

the playbook initiative in partnership with the BOSTON CELTICS

SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr & Coretta Scott King

Kick-off your Ambassador year at an unforgettable day of celebration & service in Boston!

With Inspiration from Celtics’ change makers, build the skills & knowledge to make a difference as bridge builders & upstanders.

Learn how to lead positive change in support of Cradles to Crayons. Featuring inspirational speakers, skill-building & step-by-step support to ensure your service success!

April

May

June

be kind to your mind

LEADERSHIP REUNION

Special programming to build a strong foundation of mental health & wellness!

Reunite & celebrate with your Ambassador friends! A day of awe-inspiring service impact, special guests, leadership workshops & fun!

Spring SERVICE! Ready, set, lead! Your first hometown service project for Cradles to Crayons will make a difference in the lives of thousands of children across the state.

in partnership with KyleCares, Cuerd@s, and WBZ-TV

at GILLETTE STADIUM

Hosted by the Patriots Foundation

July

August

September 11

Summer vacation Soak up the sun, spend time with family & friends, and reflect with pride on the first half of your Ambassador year! Build excitement as we prepare for the second half of your leadership journey!

SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Build the confidence & skills to serve local veterans, deployed service members, and HOME BASE. Featuring inspirational speakers & Alumni best practices.

9.11 TRIBUTE SERVICE We “honor & remember” the tragic loss of September 11, 2001 through service for our military, veterans & the families of the Fallen and 9.11 loved ones.

In 2026, Tribute Service will take on special meaning as we mark 9.11's 25th anniversary.

October

November

December

Fall service

invitation to alumni community

in partnership with BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD and PROJECT BREAD

Continue to lead & serve with Project 351 through high school & beyond!

You’ve only just begun!

SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Help “Make Hunger History” by gaining the knowledge & skills to lead Fall Service. Featuring visionary leaders, skill-building & step-by-step support to ensure your service success!

MAKE HUNGER HISTORY!

Unite schools & communities in support of your hometown food pantries & the families they nourish.

Service Leadership Academy and enrichment programming are VIRTUAL through Zoom!

16th ANNUAL LAUNCH & SERVICE DAY in HONOR of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King and in CELEBRATION of the Class of 2026

SATURDAY • JANUARY 17, 2026 Launch Day unites and uplifts a rising generation of diverse change makers and bridge builders representing the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns. This special day of celebration and social impact kicks-off the Ambassadors’ year of transformational leadership development, civic engagement, and service.

MORNING CELEBRATION, including the Roll Call of Service Heroes introducing the Class of 2026!

TRANSF0RMATIONAL SERVICE, an afternoon of unifying service in partnership with community to positively impact more than 10,000+ lives!

SERVICE CELEBRATION and kick-off of Spring Service, the Ambassadors’ first service campaign in support of Cradles to Crayons NOTE: There is no cost and transportation is provided.

REFLECTIONS ON LEADERSHIP

Project 351 is something everyone should experience — I feel more optimistic and hopeful about humanity knowing there are others who think the same way I do.

Jack

Alumni Leadership Council • Ludlow Harvard University ‘30

Domilove

Ambassador • Brockton

With Project 351, I’ve found the family of a lifetime and a cause greater than self that has become synonymous with my life’s purpose.

Project 351 has deepened my understanding of true leadership -rooted in service, compassion, and resilience. I’ve learned to show up for others, listen carefully, and lead with humility and empathy. Leadership doesn’t require perfection, rather a commitment to growth and to work as 35ONE to make a positive impact.

Arianna

Ambassador • Revere

The most powerful lesson I’ve learned from

PROJECT351 is that social change is never done alone.

It thrives through unity, mentorship, and shared purpose. I’ve come to believe that when we rise together, our power is limitless and our impact, truly lasting.

SAVA • SHARON