Learn how GLA's Ambassador Program empowers volunteers to raise awareness about Lyme disease through education, fundraising, and community engagement.
When I sat down with GLA’s Education and Grant Program Manager Kristen Harris to learn about the Peer-to-Peer Support Program she runs, I realized she has another important role, too: she also runs the GLA Ambassador Program, another wonderful way to get involved and help promote GLA’s mission to cure Lyme and other tick-borne diseases through innovative research, awareness, and empowering the patient voice. I’m excited to share what I learned about the Ambassador program: what it is, what current Ambassadors are saying about their experience, and how you can get involved—even if you are bedridden.
What is the Ambassador Program?
The GLA Ambassador Program is a volunteer-based program that joins people together in efforts to raise awareness about Lyme and other tick-borne disease, teach the importance of tick prevention, collaborate with other organizations, and fundraise. In operation for 10 years with a brief hiatus during the pandemic, the program has seen over 150 volunteers. Trained by GLA, volunteers can choose to be an Awareness Ambassador, who schedule and coordinate presentations and meeting with local organizations, civic groups, corporations, and others; a Fundraising Ambassador, who complete grass root fundraisers to raise money and awareness for GLA; and/or an Alliance Ambassador, who collaborate with other organizations in the community to establish a coalition.
“Ambassadors work on various community advocacy, education, or fundraising events,” Harris explains, citing examples such as an upcoming fundraiser at TopGolf in Long Island, a movie screening in the works for VA, community talks, and college and high school students handing out educational materials in their communities and schools… “any way to educate the community about Tick safety and Lyme awareness and inform people of the resources we have.” Harris emphasizes that there are many ways Ambassadors can help educate in their community, even for those who are housebound or may have little time , such as a social media campaign or a virtual fundraiser. “I’ve learned that no action is too small,” says Ambassador Christina Kovacs. “Everything we do as Ambassadors to spread awareness, no matter the scale, creates a ripple effect in the world.”
Who Are GLA’s Ambassadors?
GLA Ambassadors are professional, passionate leaders with exceptional communication skills who are engaged and energetic about spreading awareness and educating people about Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Ambassadors can be patients, family members, friends, or anyone eager to help the cause. Many are current or former patients who now want to give back. “Volunteering in this program means being able to turn one of the hardest chapters of my life into something more meaningful,” says Marissa Tavella, who is organizing the Drive to End Lyme TopGolf Fundraiser. “It has given me the opportunity to not only support others or raise awareness but also contribute to a community that understands the realities of living with Lyme disease and the hardships that come with it.”
Fellow Ambassador Kristi Hellenbrand, who dedicates time and resources for two months each year to pushing awareness and education in her own community and the surrounding communities in her home state of Georgia, says that volunteering “…serves as a reminder that there are always new people infected with this terrible disease who need to know they are not alone. Being a part of GLA gives me a sense of purpose…it is my reminder to stay vigilant with prevention and be compassionate with others who are suffering.”
Ambassadors enjoy helping others within a community of people who really get it. “We all share the same mission, and there is so much strength in numbers,” says Ambassador Kristen Ellington. “It is such a strong, welcoming community, and the people I’ve been meeting are absolutely wonderful.”
How to Get Involved in the Ambassador Program
To learn more about GLAs’ Ambassador Program, click here.
To apply to become a GLA Ambassador, click here.
Ambassador Tavella says, “I became involved with GLA because of my personal experience with Lyme and co-infections. I wanted to be the person I wish I had while undergoing the process of diagnosis, treatment, and post-Lyme challenges.” If you’re feeling the same way, apply to become an Ambassador or Peer Mentor today!
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