5. What is the Emily C Specchio Ambassador Program? How are you involved? Where can I get an application? Who are previous grantees?
What is it?
The idea of creating the Ambassador Program came out of my presentations at colleges, youth groups, and high schools. A common link through each speech was students afterwards seeking an opportunity to bring their own idea to life. The recurring question was never why... it was how.
I approached the Foundation and designed the competitive matching grant to be broad allowing for students and recent college graduates to bring a multitude of ideas from their own fields to the table. Whether it is formative or field research, a documentary, a photojournalism project, the sky is the limit as long as it matches the mission of the foundation.
Who can apply?
Any US Resident between 18-25 years old. Preference given to NJ and NY residents, but only as a tie breaker.
What does the grantee get?
To start, the winner receives $1,000 towards the project.
Potential for more... For every dollar the grantee fundraises for their project, the Foundation will match it with $2 with a maximum cap of $5,000 in Foundation funds. In sum, if the ambassador raises $2,500, they will have a minimum of $8,500 for their project. ($1,000 +$2,500+$5,000 = $8,500)
Grantees are also mentored directly by the board, which consists of multiple PhDs, Fulbright Scholars, and experienced domestic and international development workers.
How can the funds be used?
The application asks how the funds will be used and a high level budget. A personal stipend is acceptable if warranted. Successful applicants have generally used funds to cover travel, equipment costs, and operational expenses.
Application Deadline?
May 1st, 2012. All applicants will be notified by May 15th, 2012.
Foundation History & Mission
The Emily C. Specchio Foundation was founded in May 2006, in honor and memory of Emily C. Specchio. Emily lived a short, but very full life, and truly believed in the power of the individual to make a difference in the lives of others. Putting her beliefs into action, she was consistently a part of programs dedicated to helping those in need throughout her 21 years of life. Following Emily’s favorite quote, “Embrace that which defines you”, the mission of the Emily C. Specchio Foundation is to encourage, identify and financially support youth who pursue programs underlying the values of social justice both nationally and internationally. With this in mind, we seek ambassadors that embody our mission with enthusiasm and a drive for making an impact in the lives of others.
