After an overwhelming response to the application process for the JDRF Illinois Youth Ambassador Program, a group of 20 young students was selected to serve as the first class of Youth Ambassadors.  From March 29-April 21, all interested individuals age 7-18 with type 1 diabetes (T1D) were invited to apply. We are thankful to all of the applicants and humbled by the talent, creativity, and dedication of our young volunteers.

Congratulations 2017 JDRF Youth Ambassadors!

Sophia Bezanis
Whitney Bierman
Josie Edlefson
Mackenzie Engel
Alyssa Eric
Justin Fay
Zachary Freed
Marissa Jentel
Emily Lubek
Emily McCabe
Gabriella Metz
JT Mosbach
Teagan Murphy
Maire O’Donnell
Kyle O’Shaughnessy
Abigael Parrish
Adam Ruzumna
Lourdes Sak
Jenna Skweres
Preston Wright

The JDRF Illinois Youth Ambassador Program is a local program that invites young leaders age 9-16 with T1D to work with our chapter to engage the community, support our mission, and encourage participation. This core group of young students will support the fundraising and awareness efforts for JDRF Illinois.

Youth Ambassadors will represent JDRF in their communities, supporting the JDRF vision of a world without T1D. Youth Ambassadors were selected based on a positive outlook on T1D, passion for the JDRF mission, and willingness to work toward a cure.