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Become a Suicide Prevention Advocacy Ambassador

AFSP Advocacy Ambassadors are passionate leaders dedicated to saving lives through bold policy change. As liaisons between public officials at all levels of government with the AFSP Policy and Advocacy Office and their Chapter Public Policy Committee, they champion meaningful progress and amplify the powerful voice of the suicide prevention movement.

Who Can Apply?

  • Advocacy Ambassadors are dedicated volunteers who help advance suicide prevention policy at the state and federal levels; eligible candidates: 18 years or older
  • Affiliated with a local AFSP chapter
  • Passionate about suicide prevention and AFSP’s Public Policy Priorities
  • Interested in legislative processes and engaging with public officials, with an emphasis on those who already have relationships or maintain regular communication with their public officials or staff
  • Confident communicators who can safely and effectively share their connection to suicide prevention
  • Maintain professionalism while representing AFSP 

Program Expectations

Ambassadors dedicate at least 2-3 hours per month to:

  • Serve as a member of their Chapter’s Public Policy Committee (as applicable)
  • Participate in bi-monthly Advocacy Ambassador Zoom calls and respond to AFSP Advocacy Action Alerts
  • Support and attend your state’s Advocacy Action Day and other advocacy events, as applicable
  • Engage with public officials, track meetings in AFSP’s advocacy software and follow up as needed
  • Host at least one “Advocacy 101” presentation annually
  • Stay informed on relevant legislation and share updates with chapter committees and AFSP Policy and Advocacy Office
  • Representing AFSP in policy discussions, committee hearings, or legislative events as they come up and pertain to your state

How to Apply

  1. Contact Your Local AFSP Chapter
    Reach out to your local AFSP chapter (afsp.org/chapters) to express interest in the Advocacy Ambassador Program and request an application
  2. Submit Your Application 
    Complete the application and submit it to your chapter. Chapter staff will review your materials and, if you meet program criteria, forward your application to the AFSP Policy & Advocacy Office, Advocacy Ambassador Program Lead for review and an interview.
  3. Program Review, Interview and Timeline
    Applications are accepted year-round, but review and interviews by the Advocacy Ambassador Program Lead occur in three cohorts each year, following application receipt deadlines of March 15, July 15 and December 15.  After each deadline, the review and interview process typically takes 5-9 weeks.
  4. Selection& Onboarding
    Selected applicants will receive onboarding, training, and ongoing support from the Advocacy Ambassador Program Lead and AFSP Policy & Advocacy staff.

FAQ: Advocacy Ambassador Program

Do I have to live in the same state as the chapter I apply through?

Yes. You should apply through the AFSP chapter in the state where you currently reside.

If I miss a cohort deadline, do I need to reapply?

No. Your application automatically moves to the next cohort. You do not need to submit a new application.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. The Advocacy Ambassador Program is free for all volunteers.

Can I reapply if I’m not selected?

Yes. Applicants who are not selected may reapply in a future cohort. Chapter staff can help guide improvements for a future application.