Program Overview
The Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) provides Manhattan youth with an insider’s view of the criminal justice system, where they can learn about the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office (DANY) and its role in the criminal justice system. DANY Youth Ambassadors will have a platform to voice their ideas about how we can best serve their community. They will also participate in workshops, discussions, and community engagement activities, work on projects, and lead a culminating youth event or initiative. Ultimately, the Youth Ambassadors will become part of DANY’s network of youth leaders who amplify the voices and input of our younger community and will be paid minimum wage for their contributions.
Program Details
- Program Dates: Monday, January 11th, 2027 – Wednesday, March 17th, 2027
- DANY Youth Ambassadors will be compensated only for the hours worked and must attend the full three-month program from January 11, 2027 – March 17, 2027.
- This consists of weekly in-person meetings on Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, as well as two to five community engagement days, typically held on Saturdays.
Eligibility
- Applicants must reside in Manhattan
- Applicants must be 16 – 19 years old.
Application Requirements
Applications open on November 2, 2026, and will close at 5:00 P.M. EST on December 11, 2026.
Apply here.
We will select ambassadors from six communities in Manhattan. The six different communities are listed below:
- East Harlem
- Central/West Harlem
- Midtown
- Upper East Side/ Upper West Side
- Lower Manhattan
- Washington Heights/ Inwood
Applicants should prepare the following application materials:
- A 300-word essay on how being a DANY Youth Ambassador can help you support your local community. Please include a description of the Manhattan community (from the options listed above) you want to represent.
- A one-page resume
For more information about the program or support with your resume, please contact Youth Program Coordinator, Liz Artz at yap@dany.nyc.gov or 212-335-4248.
Register here for a virtual info session on Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm