The search is on! The March of Dimes is beginning the selection process for the 2016  Southern Maryland Ambassador. The Ambassador Program is an annual campaign that puts a face on the March of Dimes mission …the face of a child who was helped by March of Dimes-funded research, programs, or educational campaigns designed to improve infant health.  As a living symbol of the March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality, the  Southern Maryland Ambassador plays a vital role in promoting the Foundation’s outreach. 

Throughout the year, the  Southern Maryland Ambassador, and at least one parent, travel throughout the region to meetings, special events, conferences, and fundraising activities, sharing their compelling story with audiences.  During these visits, the Ambassador may participate in media interviews and photo sessions and makes appearances with local celebrities, public officials, and senior-level corporate management to increase public, awareness of the March of Dimes mission.  

In order to qualify for the  Southern Maryland Ambassador, the following guidelines must be met:

  • The March of Dimes must have played some role (through research, community service, public education, etc.) in the child’s story.
  • The child’s school schedule and the parent’s work schedule(s) should be flexible enough to accommodate regional travel and related appearances without jeopardizing the parent’s employment.  (Primarily weekends and/or week nights)
  • The child and his or her parent(s) must be able to well represent the March of Dimes at local events and volunteer meetings, as well as with media outlets of all types and at all levels.

All applications submitted will be reviewed by a committee to determine if the applicant meets the qualifications outlined in the guidelines.  Finalists will be contacted to schedule an interview with one or more representatives of the Suburban Maryland office.  The  Southern Maryland Ambassador will be chosen by a committee, based on the results of the personal visits, and interviews.  Notification takes place by letter, informing each family of the committee’s selection.
All interested persons may request an application package by contacting Sandra Sanna-Buckles at 571-257-2324 or by email ssannabuckles@marchofdimes.org. All 2016 application forms are due no later than Friday, October 2, 2015.