Fair offers opportunities for teens Fair offers opportunities for teens (January 30, 2004)

Program teaches all about the Fair - plus it pays

High school students are being recruited now for the Ambassador Program for this year's Alameda County Fair, which runs June 25 to July 11. The program gives teens ages 16-18 an understanding of how the Fair works, as well as developing their leadership skills and offering experience in communications.

Jobs include writing articles for the Fair's daily newspaper; photography assignments; running a dynamic radio station; producing a television show; and participating in Fair marketing programs, such as the Parade and promotional contests.

"The chance to work in a variety of communication mediums, as well as gain practical marketing skills, is an opportunity teenagers won't be able to get anywhere else," said program supervisor Jeffrey Winslow.

Applications should be turned in no later than Monday, Feb. 2, for an opportunity to interview for the program. Applications are available online at www.AlamedaCountyFair.com. The Fair administrative office is located at 4501 Pleasanton Ave.

The Fair Ambassador Program offers paid internships, and teens must make a one-year commitment. Meetings are held monthly throughout the year. Meetings prior to the Fair cover leadership skills, Fair operation and projects related to current Fair business issues.

During the Fair, each teen is required to work, including assuming the role of Fair Ambassador while assisting Guest Services and Information. There are also assignments in the newsroom and on the Fair Ambassador radio station, plus work on special Marketing Department projects.

The goal of the Fair Ambassador Program is to give teens a leadership opportunity while providing input to the Board of Directors regarding the production of future Fairs, and to let them earn money while gaining valuable experience.

Parents or teens with questions may call Winslow at 426-7514. -Dolores Fox Ciardelli

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