As an Ambassador of Partners of the Americas for the Olympic Games 2008 Beijing, Marisa M. Woehlert cannot recite the innumerous opportunities she had to meet with youth and athletes from the US, Brazil and other countries from all over the world and spread the mission of Partners; cultural awareness and understanding to the new generation.
Still in 2008 Illinois Partners has hosted a welcoming reception for Brazilian students who are studying at local colleges and universities. This event has provided new students with an opportunity to network with each other even though they are attending different schools. In November, a brunch was hosted at Valois Restaurant (a local favorite of President Obama) to receive former Youth ambassadors and young members of Partners from Brazil. The Illinois Chapter young members then led a walking tour of The University of Chicago.
For the 2009 GYSD service contribution, youth volunteered for the 25th Chicago Latino Film Festival. Over 700 e-mails were sent inviting people to see Portuguese language movies (especially from Brazil).