Schedule and Outputs

January 08

• Launch Web Applications

March 08

• 17th March Applications Close

April 08

• Proposed applicants will be reviewed by Friends of Saint Patrick and assessed by a panel including representatives from An Foras Teanga (Foras na Gaelige, the Ulster Scots Agency), the Saint Patrick Centre and the Northern Ireland Bureau.

• Successful Applicants will be notified and specific travel arrangements made.

Late July - August 08

• A three week programme will be delivered from 24th July – 10th August 2008. Accommodation will be provided at the Queen’s Village, Malone Road, Belfast. During this time the Young Ambassadors will work through their respective projects with bespoke mentoring made available. They will volunteer at a number of events and festivals from both traditions, be briefed by political parties, visit cultural sites and experience the cross community and reconciliation work being done by the Saint Patrick Centre and other organisations.

• Possible involvement in State Fairs like the Irish Fair of Minnesota and Milwaukee Irish Fest.

September 08

• Completion of Individual Projects and Assessment.

October 08

• Awards Reception at the Northern Ireland Bureau, Washington DC.
  

 

Outputs

It would be hoped that the output of the Program would be :

• A broader appreciation of Northern Ireland, its diverse communities and particularly a greater general understanding of the language and culture of the Province and of the shared heritage.

• continued association with the Ulster Scots Agency, Foras na Gaelige and the Northern Ireland Bureau through the Friends of Saint Patrick Chapters.

• delivery of this message to schools and colleges in North America.

• Possible representation at events like Milwaukee Irish Fest Aug 08 and the Irish Fair of Minnesota, Aug 08 either as speakers talking about their experience or facilitating and volunteering for representatives of the Agencies who may come themselves.

• Provision of a number of written projects which illustrate the visit, its benefits and how greater understanding was achieved.