The Youth Ambassador Program

The Youth Ambassador program trains teens to advocate for themselves and for others and to educate their peers and younger children with accurate information by going into classrooms, schools and clubs to teach understanding, sensitivity and tolerance of TS and its symptoms while displacing the myths and stereotypes that are often attributed to and associated with this misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder.

Youth Ambassadors also meet with politicians, appear in the media and assist with fundraising and awareness raising campaigns.

Youth Ambassadors will find there are many personal benefits as well, such as learning to work as team members and developing increased confidence in public speaking.

Youth Ambassadors learn skills that they will use for the rest of their lives and at the same time are helping to enlighten our generation about Tourette Syndrome.

Youth Ambassador Leadership Training Information (pdf document)
April 2-3, 2008 - Hilton Alexandria Mark Center ~ Alexandria, VA

TSA is kicking off this exciting new program with a two-day Leadership Training for teens and their parent/adult guardian, April 2-3, 2008 in Alexandria, VA.

To be considered for this training program, applications must be submitted to your local Chapter or Region by January 31, 2008. Selected candidates will be notified by February 28, 2008.

Leadership Training Application Form (pdf document)

Skills and/or Knowledge required

• The Youth Ambassador must be between 13 and 19 years old
  
• The Youth Ambassador may or may not have a diagnosis of TS
  
• The Youth Ambassador must be paired with an adult that will take on the responsibility of helping with the program, the schedule and the outreach. This is currently working best with Teen/Parent teams but the adult needs not be the Youth Ambassador’s parent;
  
• The Youth Ambassador must have a clear understanding of Tourette Syndrome -- YOU WILL BE TRAINED -- but must be responsible to become proficient in the information
  
• Public speaking and good writing skills are required
  
• Good Interpersonal skills and patience dealing with others is a MUST

Major Responsibilities

As a Youth Ambassador playing a key role in increasing the awareness and understanding of Tourette Syndrome, you need to be prepared to present the Youth Ambassador Program to schools, after-school clubs, scout troops, athletic teams and wherever needed.

In addition, you may be called upon to undertake a range of activities, including:

• Preparing short statements (written and spoken) to explain Tourette Syndrome and its impact on your (or a diagnosed individual’s) life
  
• Being interviewed by your local media
  
• Attending functions such as corporate breakfasts to present short speeches and chat with executives
  
• Writing to your local Politicians, and perhaps going to Washington DC to speak with Congressmen and Senators
  
• The role varies throughout the year, and is often linked directly to large annual events. For example, a selection of children and families will work with their local media during May 15th-June 15th to promote Tourette Syndrome Awareness month.
  
• If you are selected to come to Washington DC to be trained as your Chapter liaison, you will have the additional responsibilities of:
  o Training other teens in your chapter
  o Being the liaison back to National
  o Coordinating the scheduling (that’s what we use the adult for!)

Timing

Estimated time commitment required from each Ambassador:
Flexible and highly negotiable-

We do ask that you and your family carefully consider your availability as the commitment can become quite substantial.

Please note: It is not unusual for Youth Ambassadors to be needed during school hours, as a large portion of the role is to educate in schools during the school year.

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