Youth from the Greater Delaware Valley (from Eastern PA, Southern NJ, or Delaware) are invited to participate in Breakthrough T1D’s Youth Ambassador (YA) Program. You must live in one of these areas to serve as a Youth Ambassador for this Greater Delaware Chapter.
About the Breakthrough T1D Youth Ambassador Program
The Breakthrough T1D Youth Ambassador Program (YA) was designed to cultivate youth leaders within the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community. Youth Ambassadors inspire others by sharing their T1D stories, raise awareness for Breakthrough T1D, educate the broader community about T1D, and directly contribute to Breakthrough T1D’s mission to create a world without T1D.
The program includes children and teens (ages 5-18) with T1D who share their personal experiences to raise awareness of Breakthrough T1D’s mission and emphasize the importance of funding a cure. It also offers a chance for members to develop leadership skills, gain confidence in discussing T1D, connect with peers living with T1D, and much more.
Youth Ambassador Requirements
To be considered for the YA Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Between the ages of 5 – 18 years (Kindergarten – Grade 12)
- Living with T1D for at least one year
- Have a positive outlook on life and T1D
- Commit to a full-year term
- Volunteer a minimum of 5 hours to support Breakthrough T1D programs and/or events
- Attend and/or participate in a minimum of 4 Breakthrough T1D engagements, including one required fundraising event such as Breakthrough T1D Walk, Ride, Gala or your own project.
- Attend YA Orientation at beginning of term, as scheduled by the chapter
Parents and/or guardians have a responsibility in ensuring their child’s success in the program:
- Review the application with their child
- Provide permission to participate
- Assist, as needed, with program support
- Provide transportation to Breakthrough T1D events and activities
Why Be a Youth Ambassador?
Becoming a Youth Ambassador for Breakthrough T1D is an incredible opportunity to grow personally while making a real difference. Here’s what you gain:
- You’ll develop essential leadership skills that set you up for success in school, career, and advocacy.
- Gain the tools and experience to build confidence in discussing your T1D journey openly and powerfully.
- Connect deeply with other peers living with T1D, creating a supportive network that truly understands your experiences.
- Sharpen your abilities by enhancing your public speaking and storytelling skills, allowing you to share your impact effectively.
- You’ll immediately start feeling connected to your local Breakthrough T1D chapter, becoming an active and valued part of the community.
- Be a beacon of hope by inspiring other youth living with T1D through your example and voice.
- Earn unique opportunities for engaging directly with Breakthrough T1D departments and T1D leaders, gaining valuable insight into the broader world of diabetes advocacy and research.
To sign up as a Youth Ambassador, please complete the application form linked below. Both new and returning YAs need to apply to ensure we have the most up-to-date information.
Applications must be submitted no later than Sunday, November 30, 2025. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accept all of the applicants for the program. You will be notified by December 19, 2025, if you have been selected.
Join us in empowering the next generation of T1D advocates and leaders. Together, we can raise awareness, support each other, and advance the mission of Breakthrough T1D.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Megan Dougherty, Outreach & Operations Director: mdougherty@BT1D.org