Introducing BEAM’s Youth & Community Ambassador Programs
BEAM Circular Launches Inaugural Youth & Community Ambassador Programs to Empower Local Leaders in the Circular Bioeconomy.
Photos provided by BEAM Circular
Modesto, CA (August 14, 2025) – BEAM Circular is proud to announce the launch of its new Community and Youth Ambassador Programs, two pilot educational initiatives designed to equip local residents and students with the knowledge, skills, and tools to become champions for the region’s circular bioeconomy and advocates for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education.
The BEAM Community Ambassadors Program, officially kicking off August 26, 2025, will bring together 18 community members for a four-session interactive series exploring how the circular bioeconomy can drive local economic growth, reduce pollution, and inspire sustainable innovation in industries across the North San Joaquin Valley. Participants will also take part in a field trip to a local business leading the way in circular economy practices.
Designed for Spanish-speaking Stanislaus County residents passionate about environmental sustainability, good jobs, and community health, the Community Ambassadors Program will prepare participants to serve as trusted sources of information in their neighborhoods. Graduates of the program will be eligible to continue their involvement with BEAM Circular as Community Ambassadors, leading outreach activities and connecting others in their communities with education, information, and opportunities related to the region’s growing bioeconomy and other related STEM industries.
In parallel, BEAM Circular will also launch the BEAM Youth Ambassador Program on August 28, a multi-week, paid opportunity for high school and college students (ages 16–24) to immerse themselves in the science and innovation powering the circular bioeconomy. Youth Ambassadors will explore how local agricultural byproducts, such as almond shells, tomato pomace, and grape vines, can be transformed into clean energy, construction materials, tasty food ingredients, clothing, and more.
Through hands-on workshops, guest speaker sessions, and immersive site visits, students will experience the circular bioeconomy in action. They will also design and deliver interactive presentations and lead STEM activities with younger students in the community.
Participants in both programs will earn $25/hour plus travel reimbursement, gaining real-world experience while building leadership skills and advancing sustainability in the region.
“The circular bioeconomy isn’t just about technology, it’s about people,” said Karen Warner, CEO of BEAM Circular. “By engaging our neighbors and our youth as ambassadors, we’re investing in local leaders who understand the challenges and the opportunities of this region. These programs put the power to build a cleaner, more resilient, and more prosperous future directly into the hands of the community.”
Both programs underscore BEAM Circular’s commitment to community-driven climate action, economic resilience, and advancing educational opportunities in the Central Valley. For more information about the programs, please contact info@beamcircular.org.
About BEAM Circular:
BEAM Circular is a nonprofit organization that serves as a hub for circular bioeconomy innovation, workforce development, and industry growth in California’s agricultural heartland. BEAM Circular works with over 100 partners across the North San Joaquin Valley and beyond to develop bio-based solutions that transform waste into valuable products while creating local economic opportunities and addressing environmental challenges.
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