Background

In 2019, the Alliance of New York State YMCAs received a grant from YMCA of the USA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to identify state strategies for creating active and healthy communities.

The goal is to start a conversation around the benefits of Safe Routes to Schools and what can be done to improve our communities statewide. Safe Routes to School (SRTS) is a federal, state and local effort to enable and encourage children, including those with disabilities, to walk and bicycle to school – and to make walking and biking to school safe and appealing.

The Alliance’s Safe Routes to School Student Ambassador Pilot Program was created with the goal of engaging youth who are interested in creating meaningful and effective change through policy and practice. The SRTS Student Ambassador Pilot Program is ideal for middle or high students interested in advocacy and public policy, specifically as it relates to transportation, health, education, and/or environmental policy. SRTS Student Ambassadors will have the opportunity to conduct research, meet with key stakeholders in their community, and share their findings with the Alliance of New York State YMCAs, YMCA of the USA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the New York State Department of Transportation, and other Safe Routes to School advocates.

Interested in Applying?

Download the SRTS Student Ambassador Pilot Program packet below for additional information on the program and how to apply!