Obama Foundation Volunteer Program (Ambassadors)

Community volunteer program recruiting individuals to serve as "Ambassadors" at the Obama Presidential Center, supporting visitor experience during the Center's opening and operation.

Funder/Administrator: The Obama Foundation

Geographic Scope: Chicago residents, with primary focus on Chicago's South Side; open to beyond.

Program Status: Program expected to expand in the future.

Location: Obama Presidential Center

• Address: 6121 S. Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637

Volunteer Roles - Initial Phase:

• Greet visitors
• Provide directional assistance
• Share information on exhibitions and events
• Ensure every guest feels personally welcomed

Program Philosophy: Rooted in President Obama's legacy of civic engagement and commitment to volunteerism as central to American democracy. Extends tradition of President Obama's community organizing work on Chicago's South Side and his administration's expansion of national service through initiatives including the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act and United We Serve.

Timeline:

• Applications opened (circa March 2026)
• Interviews underway (as of March 2026)
• First volunteer training session scheduled: April 2026
• Program activation: Soft opening of Obama Presidential Center (June 2026)
• Grand Opening: June 18, 2026

Mission Alignment: Program reflects The Obama Foundation's mission to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. Volunteers represent the strength, resilience, and leadership of the community.

Additional Information: For more information or to apply, visit obama.org/volunteer

Application Process

Steps:

1. Submit online application through obama.org/volunteer
2. Complete interview (interviews underway as of March 2026)
3. Attend volunteer training session (first training scheduled April 2026)
4. Begin volunteer service (June 2026 onward)

Application Requirements: Not detailed in provided materials

Interview Process: One-on-one interviews conducted to assess fit for volunteer ambassador roles

Training: First volunteer training session scheduled for April 2026 ahead of Center's soft opening

Contact: emily.bittner@obama.org or visit obama.org/volunteer for application and more information