2025 Ambassador Selection Packet

TABLE OF

CONTENTS AMBASSADOR TESTIMONIAL

02

MISSION & VISION FOR CHANGE

03

IMPACT SINCE 2011

04

AMBASSADOR PROFILE

05

AMBASSADOR JOURNEY CALENDAR

06

SELECTION PROCESS

07

KEY DATES & MILESTONES

08

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

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

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 TECKCHANDANI • BRAINTREE

“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,

5,229 served

mobilized

1,378,891

326,711

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

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

AMBASSADOR PROFILE • SELECTION CRITERIA

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.

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.

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.

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

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 25, 2025.

Commitment to participate in 12-month leadership journey (page 6), which includes leadership development, mentorship, community building, and three Ambassador-led service projects in their hometown

THE

AMBASSADOR LEADERSHIP JOURNEY

Congratulations, Ambassador & welcome to 35ONE! Get ready for an awe-inspiring year of leadership, service, and friendship!

January 25

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!

Hosted by JOHN HANCOCK

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!

Aprıl

May

June

Spring SERVICE!

be kind to your mind

LEADERSHIP REUNION

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.

Special programming to build a strong foundation of mental health & wellness while you lead & serve.

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

July

August

September 11

Summer vacation

SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

9.11 TRIBUTE SERVICE

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!

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.

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.

October

November

December

Fall service

invitation to alumni community

SERVICE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY 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!

in partnership with the New England Patriots Foundation

at GILLETTE STADIUM

Hosted by the Patriots Foundation

the AMBASSADOR CAMPAIGN TO END HUNGER

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

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

Service Leadership Academy and enrichment programming are VIRTUAL through Zoom!

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.

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 are able to attend Launch Day in January and have family permission to participate in Project 351.

4. Submit online Selection Form here by November 8th Your timely submission of the Selection Form will ensure your Ambassador can participate in the full onboarding process in preparation for Launch Day!

5. Celebrate & build excitement for the year ahead!

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!

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!