Public Service Ambassadors Initiative
Public Service Ambassadors Initiative
The Public Service Ambassador Initiative is a national program hosted by the Volcker Alliance that engages AmeriCorps alumni to listen to rising leaders, build community and connection, and inspire civic purpose and service across the United States.
Overview
Communities nationwide face deteriorating trust in government and extreme polarization. Young people’s voices, perspectives, and leadership are essential to shaping the future of our country. This program empowers AmeriCorps alumni to seek perspectives of rising leaders and inspire them to serve, whether in their communities or through careers in government.
How it works
LISTEN. Public Service Ambassadors host listening sessions in their communities to understand the perspectives of young people (ages 18-25) centered around two guiding questions: What should the government of the future look like? And what would it take for them to join it?
ACTIVATE. Ambassadors organize community events that move listening session participants from reflection to action. Activation events—such as panels, mentoring, networking, info sessions—aim to increase motivation for and facilitate pathways to service, helping participants identify volunteer roles, internships, fellowships, and career opportunities in public service that align with the issues they care about.
LEARN. Every session generates insights that will be synthesized and shared with democracy partners, university leaders, and government employers. What do young people value in the government of the future? And what are the biggest barriers –and bridges– for them to join? In addition, a toolkit of effective activation strategies will be created and shared across the AmeriCorps alumni community and beyond so this important civic engagement work can continue.
Meet the Ambassadors
Why AmeriCorps Alumni?
AmeriCorps Alumni bring a distinctive combination of hands-on experience and commitment to public service. AmeriCorps alumni know what it means to serve, to listen, and to lead from the ground up. Their service hones skills in facilitation, coalition-building, and policy implementation. Crucially, alumni have witnessed how engaged citizens create meaningful change—experiencing firsthand the pathways from individual concern to collective action.