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The search is on! The March of Dimes of Southern Maryland is beginning the selection process for the 2010 Southern Maryland Ambassador. The Southern Maryland Ambassador Program is a semi-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 across the region to meetings, special events, conferences, and fundraising activities, sharing their compelling story with audiences.  During these visits, the Southern Maryland 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 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 and photo session with one or more representatives of the Southern Maryland office.  The Southern Maryland Ambassador will be chosen by the committee, based on the results of the personal visits, interviews and photo sessions.  Notification takes place by letter, informing each family of the committee’s selection.

All interested persons may request an application package by contacting Jennifer Abell at (703) 824-0111 ext.17 or by email jabell@marchofdimes.com. All 2010 application forms are due no later than Friday, January 29, 2010.

The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.