Applications for the 2026-2027 cohort will open May 2026!
Free for Adults in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties
What Is the Ambassador Program?
Miami Waterkeeper’s Ambassador Program is a free, year-long training and volunteer experience for adults who want to take action for clean water, healthy ecosystems, and a resilient South Florida.
Whether you’re a teacher, retiree, small business owner, student, or community leader, this program is your opportunity to learn, engage, and lead. You’ll gain practical knowledge about local environmental issues, connect with fellow changemakers, and take part in meaningful advocacy and service.
No prior experience is necessary—just a passion for protecting our environment and a commitment to being part of the solution.
Why It Matters
South Florida’s environment is under pressure—from pollution to sea level rise. And while these issues are serious, young people like you are stepping up with creative, bold solutions.
The Ambassador Program helps residents understand the issues, develop their voice, and become active participants in shaping a cleaner, safer future for all.
What You’ll Do
Attend a series of workshops and fieldtrips around Miami-Dade County, each focusing on different local environmental issues
Participate in events such as cleanups and habitat restorations
Learn how to speak with decision-makers and advocate for policies that protect our environment
Connect with local experts and fellow Ambassadors
Take part in special events and ongoing opportunities to stay engaged
Receive a certificate of completion and join our growing network of trained advocates
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for adults in Miami-Dade or Broward who are:
• Passionate about clean water and environmental justice
• Eager to volunteer and get involved in their community
• New to environmental advocacy or looking to deepen their impact
Why Apply for the Miami Waterkeeper Ambassador Program?
As a Miami Waterkeeper Ambassador, you’ll gain the tools, confidence, and community to make a real impact—no science degree or policy background required. This free program is designed for adults who want to protect South Florida’s environment through hands-on action, local advocacy, and community leadership.
As an Ambassador, you’ll:
Learn about local environmental issues
Develop leadership skills
Improve your public speaking abilities
Receive advocacy training
Earn community service hours
Develop your network through partnerships
Educate members of their community on important issues
Gain access to exclusive Miami Waterkeeper events and activities
Workshops & Field Trips
Ambassadors must attend 6 out of the 12 workshops/field trips offered in order to complete the program. The workshops/field trips are held throughout South Florida and facilitated by Miami Waterkeeper leadership and staff, covering the following topics:
Biscayne Bay 101 Field Trip
Everglades Field Trip
Individual Actions Workshop
Marine Debris Clean-Up
Science Communication Workshop
Wastewater Field Trip
Stormwater Workshop
Environmental Justice Workshop
Civic Engagement Workshop
Nature Based Solutions Workshop
Florida Friendly Landscaping
How to be an Advocate Workshop
Service Events
One of the founding pillars of Miami Waterkeeper is community engagement. As such, we expect our Ambassadors to be engaged in the community.
Ambassadors will participate in meaningful, hands-on experiences like:
Beach and shoreline cleanups
Habitat restoration projects
Community events that connect science with action
PROGRAM TIMELINE & STRUCTURE
The program runs during the academic year and includes:
12 workshops and field trips (Ambassadors must attend 6 out of the 12 workshops/field trips offered in order to complete the program)
1 advocacy project at the end of the program
Ambassadors are expected to participate fully and will be supported every step of the way.
APPLY NOWfaqs
This is a free program offered by Miami Waterkeeper.
August 15th is the deadline to apply for the cohort.
Miami Waterkeeper Ambassadors is an adult-leadership program. You must be 18 years or older to apply. Students in grades 9–12 can apply to our Junior Ambassador program.
The program occurs throughout the course of an academic year (September to June).
Field trips and workshops will take place at various locations throughout Miami-Dade County. Event details will be shared at least one month in advance.
Yes. You can earn 2 to 4 hours per event/training, depending on session time.
This competitive program expects ambassadors to attend the initial introductory session (remote) and to complete at least 9 of the 12 modules. Recurring absences may lead to loss of ambassador status.
You can miss up to 3 events. In some cases, a make-up event may be available.
All events will be held on the weekend or during the evening on a weekday.
This is a competitive program and Miami Waterkeeper selects 25-30 participants each year.
Email us at education@miamiwaterkeeper.org or call/text 305-905-0856.
STILL GOT QUESTIONS?
If you have further questions, please email our Senior Education and Engagement Manager, Erin Cover, at erin@miamiwaterkeeper.org.
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