News Release

July 21, 1998

Beginning this week, travelers at John Wayne Airport (JWA) are being welcomed by Volunteer Ambassadors clad in red blazers, khaki pants, white shirts and a button reading "May I Help You?" These individuals are part of an exciting new Volunteer Ambassador Program designed to assist patrons with their traveling needs.

This Program is the first of its kind at JWA. The objective of the Volunteer Ambassador Program is to provide Airport patrons with friendly, informed service that enhances their experience at John Wayne Airport. Good-will Ambassadors have been trained in customer service to assist passengers with any questions they have about JWA’s facility or services.

Information they provide includes directions to particular airlines, gates, restaurants, restrooms, public phones, rental car counters etc. Volunteer Ambassadors serve a four-hour shift twice a month and are stationed in the concourse areas nearest the security screening points.

"The Ambassador Program complements the Airport’s goal of providing first-class customer service to our travelers," said O.B. Schooley, Airport Director.

Although open to adults of all ages, the Airport recruited among the retired communities in Orange County. The response has been phenomenal. More than 90 individuals have expressed interest in participating in the Program and to date nearly 50 individuals have "officially" joined the Airport as Volunteer Ambassadors. Volunteers are from all areas of Orange County and speak a variety of languages including Japanese, German, Swahili, Spanish, French, Arabic and many more.

Ivan Hamilton, a retired Marine Sergeant has volunteered to be an Ambassador and is full of enthusiasm as he speaks about the Program, "I am so proud to be a part of this wonderful Program. With all of the frustrations associated with traveling these days, I am thrilled to help make traveling through John Wayne Airport a pleasurable experience."

Individuals interested in volunteering as an Ambassador may call Jill Matthews at (949) 252-5168.

# # #