Are you passionate about making a difference in Isla Vista? The IVCSD Community Ambassador Program is your chance to lead, learn, and connect, all while earning community service hours! Gain valuable experience, support your community, and become a catalyst for positive change. Apply now to be a part of something bigger and start making an impact today!

What is the Community Ambassador Program?

The Community Ambassador Program is an exciting volunteer opportunity with the Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD). This program empowers Isla Vista residents, local activists, students, and community members to make a tangible impact in their community. As a Community Ambassador, you'll engage with local resources and services, support community events, and promote sustainability initiatives.

Whether you’re passionate about local government, eager to gain valuable volunteer experience, or simply want to give back to your community, this program offers you the chance to develop new skills, connect with neighbors, and contribute to the well-being of Isla Vista. With flexible hours, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to be recognized for your efforts, the Community Ambassador Program is perfect for anyone looking to make a difference at the local level.

Ideal Candidates:

• Isla Vista residents who enjoy engaging with the community
• Local community activists passionate about making a difference in the world by starting at a local level
• Students interested in pursuing a career in local government or politics 
• Community members interested in supporting local resources and services that support their neighbors
• Community members looking to gain volunteer hours through valuable experience and connection with their neighbors

Candidate Requirements:

• Must be based in Isla Vista
• Must be able to volunteer in-person sychronous (some tasks may be viable for remote asynchronous)
•  Must be proficient in the Google Suite (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, etc)

Program Requirements

• Volunteers must complete a minimum of 10 hours per quarter (this equates to about 1 hour of volunteering per week, 2 hours biweekly, or supporting 2 large community events)
• Volunteers must complete 2 initiation trainings: one 30-minute virtual training, and one 30-minute in person training

Important Dates

• Fall Application Window: September 20th - October 14th
• Fall initiation Training: October 15th - October 18th (you will choose one 30-minute in-person training to attend. Exact dates and times TBA)
• Spring Application Window: February 23rd - February 24th
• Spring initiation Training: February 24th - February 28th (you will choose one 30-minute in-person training to attend. Exact dates and times TBA)

Focus Opportunities:

Community Ambassadors may choose one of the five main focus areas ilisted below if they wish to participate in specialized volunteer work to explore their specific passions and interests:

1. Community Involvement & Outreach

• Engage with the Community: Get involved in tabling and canvassing to spread the word about vital local resources and services, and gather feedback that shapes the future of Isla Vista.
• Research and Partnership Development: Hone your research skills by identifying potential community partners that can benefit from IVCSD programs, expanding your network and influence.

2. Beautification Support

• Sustainability Initiatives: Be at the forefront of waste reduction efforts, contributing to a greener Isla Vista while learning about environmental sustainability practices.
• Public Art and Urban Enhancement: Participate in mural painting, graffiti abatement, and other art projects that beautify our community, showcasing your creative talents and dedication to your community.

3. Event Support

• Event Planning and Management: Assist local event planners in organizing and facilitating community events, gaining real-world experience in event production and logistics.
• Festival Production: Support our local festivals by helping with production, performer coordination, and boosting community participation, perfect for those interested in event management or public relations.

4. Community Composting Support

• Grassroots Environmental Activism: Support grassroots initiatives to lower our community's carbon footprint by helping to curate top quality compost and soil mix from local resident food scraps 
• Sustainability and Education: Collaborate with local community experts to educate residents about the benefits of composting for our community and our planet

5. Marketing Support

• Creative Content Development: Help design and create marketing materials for social media, promoting our programs, services, and events. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in digital marketing, graphic design, or communications.

How to Apply:

Applications will close on October 14th at 12:00pm (noon).

Fill out this Google Form to begin your application.

• The application process will consist of:
  • A Google Form with 10-15 questions (multiple choice, short answer, and long answer)
  • An optional one-minute video submission describing yourself and why you would be a good fit for the program
    • If you have any accessibility concerns regarding recording and submitting a video, please contact us well before the application due date
• Applicants can expect to hear back by end of day October 14th
• If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Myah: @communityengagement@islavistacsd.com