YOUTH LEADERSHIP FORUM
FACT SHEET
WHAT KIND OF STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP FORUM?
Young People Who Have Disabilities and Who -
Demonstrate Leadership Potential
Demonstrate Academic Success
Demonstrate Involvement in Extracurricular Activities (such as Sports, the Arts or Music)
Demonstrate Community Involvement
Demonstrate the Ability to Interact Effectively with Other Students
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FORUM?
We -
...Bring together young people with disabilities who demonstrate potential leadership qualities.
...Share information with each other that is beneficial to the communities represented. Education programs will include such topics as developing self-esteem, choosing a career, the history of disability as a culture, and assistive technology for independence. Presenters who meet with the students include disability community leaders, legislators, and numerous other professionals.
...Identify existing barriers to personal and professional success and develop plans to deal with those barriers.
....Assist each student in developing a personal leadership plan which includes specific action plans for the students when they return to their communities.
The forum includes small group discussions with fellow students, large group presentations by successful community leaders, a dance, a talent show, a formal luncheon with community leaders, and a visit to the State House to meet with government officials.