About the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities
What is the Youth Leadership Forum?
An exciting five day leadership or program that provides information on everything from technology to resource agencies, and helps you create a " Personal Leadership Plan" to help you reach your future education and career goals. Plus, you and your peers will be able to meet and interact with leaders in the State and Nation - celebrities, politicians, entertainers, and other role models from the "disability community"
The forum will take place July 26-30, 2009 in the State Capitol, Sacramento, California. Student delegates and volunteer staff stay in the dorms at California State University, Sacramento. If you have never experienced a university campus before, this is a great opportunity to do so!
Furthermore, there is NO COST FOR YOU TO ATTEND!
Who funds this fantastic opportunity?
The YLF is produced as a cooperative project that includes the California Governor's Committee on  Employment of People with Disabilities, State Employment Development Department, Department of Rehabilitation, Department of Education, State Independent Living Council, CalSTAT and California Health Incentives Improvement Project/San Diego State University, California Workforce Investment Board, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, California Foundation for Independent Living Centers, California Youth Leadership Forum Alumni Alliance, and Friends of Californians with Disabilities, Inc.
Who can attend?
This amazing opportunity is only available to:
- California Residents Only
- High School students in 11th or 12th grade with a disability which may include a variety of disabilities such as learning, visual, mobility, mental health, developmental, hearing, and neurological impairments. Some age exemptions may be made.
- Those who have demonstrated leadership potential in school and in the community.
How are students selected?
Approximately 60 students will be chosen to will be contacted by telephone to arrange a personal interview. YLF Steering Committee partners will conduct the interview during March and April. The Student Selection committee will make final selections by early May. All applicants will be notified by mail.
What happens if you are selected to attend YLF?
Students will be asked to complete a confirmation form and provide additional information. YLF staff will send detailed information about the Forum's schedule and activities in July. All appropriate expenses will be paid by the Youth Leadership Forum. This includes travel lodging, food, and accommodations such as sign language interpreters, personal care attendants and alternate formats.
What happens after you attend YLF?
All alumni of the YLF program are eligible to join the YLF alumni Alliance, a group devoted to furthering the leadership skills of future youth with disabilities across California.
Alumni are strongly encouraged to share what you've learned at YLF with your high school by giving presentations, encouraging other students to apply for future YLFs, and talking to you friends about your YLF experience.
Overall, YLF will prepare you to be a stronger leader and give back to your community!
APPLY NOW!
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