Program Overview
Learning how to reduce, reuse, and recycle (and compost!) is fun. Now, SWACO offers a program where you not only become an expert on the 3Rs, you will also spend the year putting that knowledge into action as part of our ambassador program.
The 3R Ambassador Program gives Franklin County residents the knowledge and tools to make a difference in their communities. Through six weeks of training, participants learn how waste is managed in central Ohio and explore practical ways to reduce, reuse and recycle.
The program covers recycling, composting, food waste reduction and the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill. After completing the training, 3R Ambassadors put what they’ve learned into action by completing 20 hours of volunteer service throughout the year.
Curriculum and Schedule
The 3R Ambassador Program combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences at local waste management facilities. Over six sessions, participants explore waste reduction, recycling, food waste, composting and landfill management while gaining practical knowledge they can share with their communities.
Before applying: Applicants must be available for all six training sessions and commit to 20 hours of volunteer service throughout the year.
Volunteer Service Hours
After completing the six training sessions, Ambassadors complete 20 hours of volunteer service throughout the year. Volunteer activities are flexible and can be selected based on your interests, schedule and community.
20 Hours
Flexible and self-paced throughout the year
Ways to Volunteer
- Help at SWACO events
- Share recycling and waste reduction resources
- Bring recycling or composting to a public event
- Start or improve recycling or composting at a school or workplace
- Organize a swap or repair event
- Present what you’ve learned to your community
- Support a food rescue project
- Organize a collection event for hard-to-recycle items
Ready to Become an Ambassador?
Applications for the 2027 3R Ambassador Program open October 1, 2026.
Application deadline: October 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Questions?
For questions about the program, eligibility or the application process, contact: [email protected]