WVAFF

WVAFF Association Mentorship Program

Apply for the WVAFF AMP now thru April 15, 2026

The West Virginia Association of Fairs & Festivals (WVAFF) Association Mentorship Program (AMP) is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders within West Virginia’s fairs and festivals community. The program supports young adults ages 17–21 who demonstrate a commitment to local events and a desire to strengthen the connection between their communities and the statewide fair and festival network.
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Purpose and Goals

The program exists to encourage meaningful participation in WVAFF member events and to provide structured mentorship and leadership development. Its goals are to:
  • Encourage active involvement in local fairs and festivals.
  • Provide guided leadership experiences and professional growth.
  • Strengthen long-term engagement between young adults and their communities.

Applicant Requirements

Eligible applicants must:
  • Be a West Virginia resident.
  • Actively participate in a WVAFF member event.
  • Be sponsored by a board member (or immediate family member of one) from a WVAFF event in -good standing.
  • Submit a recommendation letter, completed application, and a 500+ word original essay.
  • Maintain a clean and positive social media presence.
  • Meet age requirements and not be registered for the Miss WVAFF Pageant.
  • Not have participated in the program twice previously.

Selection Process

Participants are selected by the WVAFF Board of Directors based on:
  • Review of the application and essay.
  • Completion of an in‑person interview.
  • Communication with the sponsoring event’s board.
  • Review of social media activity, if applicable.
Up to three participants may be chosen each program year.

Program Expectations

Selected participants serve from April 1 through March 30 and must:
  • Attend at least 50% of in‑person and virtual WVAFF board meetings.
  • Volunteer at the WVAFF Annual Convention and the State Fair of West Virginia.
  • Volunteer at three WVAFF member events (their own plus two additional) for a minimum of eight hours each.
  • Deliver a brief presentation at the WVAFF Annual Business Meeting.
  • Maintain a positive social media presence throughout the program.

Program Rewards

Upon successful completion, participants receive:
  • A $500 scholarship.
  • Covered expenses for required program activities.
  • A formal letter of commendation from the WVAFF President.
  • Valuable leadership experience applicable to college applications and résumés.

NOTE: Sponsoring events must remain in good standing for participants to remain eligible for program rewards.

For question about the program, eligibility, or submitting an application, essay, or letter of recommendation, please email amp@wvfairsandfestivals.org or call Michael Wodnicki at (304) 629-1892.

Apply Here