The Young Ambassadors program operated by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful (KPB) was recognized with a Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence. This annual award is presented to any Pennsylvania business, farm, government agency, educational institution, nonprofit organization, or individual that has created or participated in the development of a project that promotes environmental stewardship in Pennsylvania.

The Young Ambassadors of Pennsylvania program is offered in partnership with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and aims to build community stewards and civic leaders by inspiring, engaging, and empowering young residents of the commonwealth to become ambassadors in their community for a shared vision of a clean and beautiful Pennsylvania. The program provides opportunities for high school students to train and network with industry leaders, state agencies, local media, and the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful board and staff members to increase leadership and problem-solving skills and promote professional development while preparing them to continue to make differences in their communities and beyond.

KPB provides education and training to program participants on topics such as the impact of litter on roadways, litter prevention, waste management and recycling, civic engagement and related public policy, volunteer management, and social media marketing. Throughout the year, the students attend six mandatory virtual education sessions, conduct a community assessment, and organize both a cleanup and an education event.

The Young Ambassadors program was recommended in the commonwealth's Litter Action Plan announced by the Governor's Office in November 2021 and is funded by PennDOT.

Each year, 30 to 40 students are accepted into the program. Applications will be accepted until Monday, June 10, for students who will be in grades 10 to 12 during the 2024-25 school year. To apply, visit http://www.keeppabeautiful.org/programs/education/young-ambassadors-of-pennsylvania/.