Who qualifies to be a candidate?

The main criteria is that you be between the ages of 17-22 as of July 1st of the year you run.  You must also live, work, go to school in, or have graduated from a school located in Richfield.  You must be a legal resident or citizen and never married or pregnant.

What does it mean to be a candidate?

Candidates spend their time volunteering while learning more about Richfield and the Ambassador Program.  Each event is a unique and fun experience where candidates will gain new skills to help them in their future while having a lot of fun!

  What is the time commitment as a candidate?

Events are April through coronation in July.  Events are on average once a week, although there are more events the week of the 4^th of July Celebration. 

Each event has a special purpose to prepare you for your future as well as prepare you to become a Richfield Ambassador.  Candidates are expected to attend all scheduled events whenever possible.  Judges will base your commitment level as an ambassador on your attendance of candidate events. 

A sample calendar can be found at: http://www.richfield4thofjuly.com/ambassadorprogram/judgingcriteriaapplication.html

What is expected of me at candidate events?

At each event candidates are expected to follow the guidelines as set forth by the committee.  You will be expected to participate at each event with enthusiasm and poise.

  What is expected of parents at candidate events?

Ambassador candidate parents are not expected to attend any events but are encouraged to support you through attending events. Not all events are open to the public, but for those that are we hope your family can join you. 

Junior ambassador candidates are expected to have a parent with them at all events except the few that are noted on the candidate schedule.  That parent is expected to stay at the event and supervise their daughter until the event is over.

  Do I find my own sponsor? 

You are not expected to find your own sponsor.  However if you know of someone who might be interested in sponsoring you or another candidate, the committee will contact them regarding this exciting opportunity.

What happens if I am crowned a Richfield Ambassador?

You will be expected to attend all scheduled events for the next year.  Events will be a minimum of one weekend day every week plus week day/night events.  Ambassadors are not expected to postpone educational pursuits.  The committee will work with all ambassadors to make the ambassador schedule work with school.  Parents and family are expected to help chaperone events.  Ambassadors will also complete an internship as part of this program.  At the end of the year the Ambassadors will receive a cash scholarship while Junior Ambassadors will receive a savings bond.

What are candidates judged on?

This program is not a "beauty pageant".  We are looking for dedicated, gracious young adults who possess dignity, a sense of good values, and are committed to promoting the Richfield 4th of July Celebration and the City of Richfield.  The selection process involves judging sessions including one-on-one and panel interviews, observation at official appearances and one on-stage question at Coronation.  We rely on qualified judges from outside the community to complete the selection process.

What kind of clothing do I need?

For Coronation you will need a formal tea-length or floor length all white gown, or suit for male candidates.  For interviews, you will need a business suit, dress, or skirt.  For most candidate events, you will be provided with a t-shirt and sash and be asked to wear khaki slacks.  We do not want you to purchase expensive clothes, be creative and don't be afraid to borrow from a friend.  Clothing specification will be addressed with the candidate schedule.

What do I have to do to become a candidate?

To apply for the Richfield Ambassador Candidate Program complete the application and submit it before the deadline.  Then get ready to have the time of your life!  If you have additional questions contact the Candidate Coordinator. Applications now available on the judging criteria and application page.