Thank you so much for your interest in the TUF Ambassador Program! We’re deeply grateful to all those who are stepping up to lead, advocate, and build stronger, more affirming communities for TGNC individuals across Illinois. Your passion, lived experience, and commitment to justice are exactly what this movement needs. We look forward to building with you and supporting your leadership every step of the way.
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Application closes on Monday, September 15th at 11:59pm CST.
TUF Ambassador FAQ
What is the TUF Ambassador Program? The Trans Up Front IL Ambassador Program is a statewide initiative that trains transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals or parents/caregivers of TGNC youth (in partnership with a TGNC adult) to become advocates and community leaders across Illinois, especially in rural and underserved areas. Serving TGNC individuals ages 4–25 and their support systems, the program provides: *Free training and leadership development *360° wraparound support *Access to affirming resources, including legal and healthcare navigation *Tools to assess community needs and build tailored local supports As a trans- and disability-led organization, TUF centers access and inclusion, ensuring every ambassador is equipped to lead efforts that reflect diverse abilities, identities, and experiences.
Who can be a TUF Ambassador? Can this opportunity be used for an existing organization? To qualify, you must: *Be 21 years of age or older *Identify as TGNC or be a parent/caregiver of a TGNC individual in partnership with a TGNC adult (age 21+) who is not your child *Live in a community—rural or urban—lacking TGNC-specific resources and support *Have some experience with community organizing or local engagement You may apply with up to 2 others as a local area Ambassador team (max 3 people per cohort). If application is in conjunction with an existing organization more information will be collected during your interview process including but not limited to; your organization legal status, what demographics you primarily serve and current funding you receive. Having an organization does not automatically disqualify you from this program.
What is the time commitment? Ambassadors should plan to dedicate 10–15 hours per month to the program.
What support will Ambassadors receive? Ambassadors will receive robust support, including: *Free virtual training sessions *One-on-one personalized support to assess and address local needs *Monthly check-ins and technical assistance *Help launching local TUF chapters, creating outreach strategies, and developing community-specific resources *Access to a dedicated fundraising platform for community projects and events *Statewide connections through an annual in-person Ambassador gathering *Invitation to a Summer 2026 Educational Summit in the Chicagoland area TUF’s Board of Directors and statewide Advisory Boards are also available to offer mentorship and guidance.
What is the application timeline? Application closes on Monday, September 15th at 11:59pm CST. Interviews will begin late September and announcement of the inaugural TUF Ambassador cohort will be made by November. Program orientation will be in December and after 1 year you will be part of our alumni programming with invites to TUF Events and other networking opportunities and ongoing support.
As this is a newly launching program, additional needs identified by
TUF Ambassadors will be supported as capacity allows.