Young ambassADors' Program (YAP)
Turning volunteering into real work experience
The Young Ambassadors’ Programme (YAP) is a part-time opportunity for young people aged 18 to 25 who want to gain real work experience, build confidence, and find direction, while making a positive difference in their community.
Delivered by Volunteer TimeBank, YAP transforms volunteering into a structured pathway towards employment, education, or further training.
We are launching YAP as a pilot in Chichester and West Sussex, with plans to expand nationally. Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, the programme is ready to get started.
If you are motivated and interested, we would still love to hear from you even if you are outside the initial launch area.
What you will gain.
YAP is not a paid programme, but the value goes far beyond money.
As a Young Ambassador, you will gain:
- Real, accredited work experience you can include on your CV
- Confidence, purpose, direction, and new friendships
- On-the-job training in areas such as events, networking, entrepreneurship, and communications
- Access to mentors from business, charity, and community sectors
- Opportunities and professional networks that are often hard to access
- Experience working as part of a supportive, professional team
- Volunteer hour credits that can be banked and used later through Volunteer TimeBank
Many Young Ambassadors go on to paid roles, education, or new opportunities that arise directly through the programme.
What you will do.
Young Ambassadors work together as a team and are supported throughout the programme. Activities may include:
- Supporting local charities and community projects
- Speaking at schools, colleges, or community events
- Helping to recruit volunteers and promote positive volunteering
- Learning how organisations operate behind the scenes
- Building professional, networking, and digital skills
- Meeting local employers, charities, and community organisations
No two experiences are the same. The programme is designed to grow with you.
Who is YAP for?
You do not need prior experience.
YAP is for young people who are:
- Aged 18 to 25
- Based in or near Chichester or West Sussex for the pilot phase
- Motivated and open to learning life skills
- Looking for experience, confidence, and direction
- Reliable and committed
- Interested in making a positive difference
If you feel stuck, unsure of your next step, or simply want to build a strong foundation for your future, YAP is here to support you.
Time Commitment and Flexibility
Volunteering does not need to be full time.
YAP runs in flexible blocks so you can balance other commitments. If you secure employment or education while taking part, that is success, and you will be supported to move on with your new skills and experience.
Interested in applying?
We are currently inviting applications from 18 to 25 year olds in the Chichester and West Sussex area as part of our pilot launch.
If you are based elsewhere and interested, please still get in touch. As the programme grows, we are keen to explore future opportunities together.
YAP is about potential, not perfection.
To learn more or apply, please contact us via our contact page or email: