PROJECT351
demonstrates that good still exists in the world. We’re surrounded by so many negative things, but not at Project 351. I’ve learned that by working together, my generation -- the new generation -- can build a better future.
I've learned about our common humanity and have felt huge pride in my heart each time I make a difference in someone’s life.
NIRELIS • AMBASSADOR • HOLDEN
MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE A YOUTH-LED
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.”
“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, developed theskills,confidence,& couragetolead& succeedasagentsof positivechange fostered acultureofkindness &compassionin hundredsofschools& communities
1,378,891 neighbors mobilized 326,711 classmates & peers in service 5,229
United committed theCommonwealth throughashared visionforgreater equity,access& inclusion toalifetimeofcivic responsibility& service served
Gratitude
AMBASSADOR
Thank you for your belief... in the power and potential of young people.
With your invaluable support and partnership, Project 351 celebrates the ethic of service, youth leadership, and the unifying and uplifting power of community.
The heart of our movement for social change is a remarkable community of eighth grade Ambassadors, recognized by you for their exemplary ethic of service and the 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.
SELECTIONCRITERIA:
Exemplifythevaluesofkindness,compassion,humility,andgratitude. Demonstrateastrongethicofservice.Weseekaspiringchange-makerswhohave shownauniquepassionandcommitmenttoothersandacausegreaterthanself Servicemayincludeeffortsatschool,throughextracurricularorganizations,attheir houseofworship,orpersonalservicetofamilybecauseofuniqueorchallenging circumstances
Canworkindependentlyandvaluesandenjoysteamwork. Reflectstrongpotentialanddesiretolearnandlead.
RepresenttherichdiversityoftheCommonwealthandyourcommunity.
NOTE:ThereisNOCOSTforparticipationfortheAmbassador,family,orschooldistrict.
REQUIREMENTS&RESPONSIBILITIES:
Eighthgradestudent
Permissionandsupportoffamily/guardian
SupportofanEducatorMentor
ParticipationinProject351’sLaunch&ServiceDayonSaturday,January25,2025. Commitmenttoparticipatein12-monthleadershipjourney(page6),whichincludes leadershipdevelopment,mentorship,communitybuilding,andthreeAmbassador-led serviceprojectsintheirhometown
AMBASSADOR LEADERSHIP JOURNEY
Congratulations,Ambassador&welcometo35ONE! Getreadyforanawe-inspiringyear ofleadership,service,andfriendship!
January 25
LAUNCH & SERVICE DAY
In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr & Coretta Scott King
Kick-offyourAmbassadoryearat anunforgettabledayof celebration&serviceinBoston!
HostedbyJOHNHANCOCK
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
July
Soak up the sun, spend time with family & friends, and reflect with pride on the first half of your Ambassador year! And, build excitement as the Project 351 team team prepares for the second half of your service journey!
playbook initiative
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! in partnership with the Boston Celtics be kind to your mind
Reunite&celebratewith yourAmbassadorfriends!A dayofawe-inspiringservice impact,specialguests, leadershipworkshops&fun! HostedbythePatriotsFoundation at GILLETTE STADIUM in partnership with the New England Patriots Foundation Special programming to build a strong foundation of mental health & wellness while you lead & serve. We “honor & remember” the tragic loss of September 11, 2001 through service for our military, veterans & the families of the Fallen and 911 loved ones
August
Learn how to lead positive change in support of local veterans, deployed service members, and MA Military Heroes Fund at Home Base. Featuring inspirational speakers, skill-building & service best practices from Alumni
October November
Learn how to lead positive change in support of local food pantries. Featuring inspirational speakers, skill-building & step-by-step support to ensure your service success in the fight to end hunger!
September 11
Unite schools & communities in support of your hometown food pantries & the families they nourish the AMBASSADOR CAMPAIGN TO END HUNGER invitation to alumni community
Continue to lead & serve with Project 351 through high school & beyond!
SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
SELECTION PROCESS
1. Review Criteria
Youth are selected for an exemplary ethic of service and the values of kindness, compassion, humility, and gratitude. Ambassadors are unsung heroes and quiet leaders who are eager to serve, lead, and learn; and reflect this remarkable generation’s passion to make a difference.
Designate a School-based Selection Team
A bright orange Welcome Packet will be mailed to the school to be given to the Ambassador. Please present them with the Certificate of Congratulations included inside and celebrate this exciting milestone! Celebrate & build excitement for the year ahead! 2. 3. 4. 5.
Collaborate with administrators, guidance counselors, and educators to select an Ambassador to represent your community.
Share the good news with your Ambassador! Confirm they are able to attend Launch Day in January and have family permission to participate in Project 351. Select Ambassador & Confirm Participation
Your timely submission of the Selection Form will ensure your Ambassador can participate in the full onboarding process in preparation for Launch Day! Submit online Selection Form here by November 8th
SELECTION DATES & MILESTONES
Tuesday, October 15 • 4:00 pm
Educator Info Call via Zoom
Friday, November 8
Ambassador Selection Deadline
Monday, November 25 • 6:00 pm
Class of 2025 Welcome Call #1 via Zoom
Tuesday, December 10 • 7:00 pm
Class of 2025 Welcome Call #2 via Zoom
Tuesday, January 21, 2025 • 7:00 pm
Countdown to Launch Call via Zoom
Saturday, January 25, 2025 in Boston
15th Annual Launch & Service Day in celebration of the Ambassador Class of 2025!