Who Are Ambassadors?
The LIRS Ambassadors Circle is made up of carefully selected volunteers who promote the mission and work of the agency through education, service and advocacy opportunities in their communities. Ambassadors put their faith into practice by speaking out on behalf of newcomers and advocating for more humane treatment of those seeking protection, new hope and new life in America.

What Do Ambassadors Do?
Ambassadors motivate others to welcome the stranger. They represent the agency by mobilizing others in advocacy campaigns, staffing conference exhibits, speaking to civic and religious groups in their communities, and encouraging public officials to promote just and fair policies. Ambassadors who live near a local LIRS partner can connect with that agency or congregation to help promote its areas of service. Several Ambassadors choose to advance the LIRS mission by developing financial support for the LIRS funds including Friends of Refugees.

What Does LIRS Do for Ambassadors?
LIRS national staff provides Ambassadors with ongoing and timely information, support and guidance to be effective advocates and educators in their communities. Ambassadors are networked with the national office through e-mail and telephone. Ambassadors become partners with the agency in promoting a spirit of welcome for newcomers throughout America.

Could I Be an Ambassador?
You should apply to the Ambassadors Circle if…

• …you have seen and heard the stories of injustice and are compelled to speak up,
• …you have lived the life of a refugee or immigrant and want to share your unique perspective on these issues,
• …you are concerned about justice and peace in our country and in our world,
• …you are a self-initiator and networker who can move people to action,
• …you want to be part of a national network that impacts public policy and human rights, or
• …you want to affect the well-being of uprooted people around the globe.

What Current Ambassadors Have to Say
"My main cause is the love of God. Because of my experience as a refugee, I will be an advocate for them." —Ambassador Kamy Moghbeli, Engineering Technician, New York

"As an Ambassador, I can help identify and motivate congregations to action. I want to be a part of that process." —Ambassador Ken Johnson, Pastor, Illinois

"Once people understand, they will respond. There's a willingness, you just need to develop it." —Ambassador Sharon Daoura, Homemaker, Washington

"We have to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. If we allow even one person to be mistreated, we are demeaning all of mankind." —Ambassador Pat Friar, Retiree, Texas

How Can I Get More Information?
Application (MS Word file)
Ambassador Job Descriptions (MS Word file)

Contact LIRS at ambassadors@lirs.org or 410/230-2756.

Page last modified April 14, 2006.