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The Florida Grantor, Summer 1999

Youth Leadership Forum Slated for July 2000

The Florida Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities (YLF) is a unique career leadership-training program for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities. The YLF model was developed in 1992 by the California Governor's Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities, and has since become a national replica of the President's Committee. The Able Trust will host the Florida YLF from July 20 through July 23, 2000 at Southgate on Florida State University's campus in Tallahassee. By serving as delegates from their communities at this four-day event, these students cultivate leadership, citizenship and social skills.

Throughout the forum, small "working groups" will explore personal leadership and career plans. Social, artistic, athletic and recreational activities will abound, as these are part of leading a well-rounded life. Guest speakers will address such topics as disability rights law, innovations in technology, college opportunities, career options and resources at all levels.

The key to the YLF is leadership by example. Adults with disabilities who have traveled the same path these young people are facing will serve as faculty and staff. Many other volunteers, some with disabilities and some without, will help make the program a success.

Other activities include a guided tour of the Florida Capitol, involving interaction with members of the press and government dignitaries, along with a farewell dance to help celebrate accomplishments with new friends.

Delegates will be chosen through a statewide competition that seeks students with disabilities who have leadership potential. Each applicant will submit a standard form, an essay and letters of recommendation. The Able Trust will develop a panel of judges to help select thirty (30) students to represent the state in terms of geography, gender, ethnicity and types of disabilities.

There is no cost for students to attend the YLF. The commitment of the program is to enable youth with disabilities to grow personally, socially and academically and to fulfill their potential in their work and their lives. No student should be denied this opportunity because of economic hardship. All costs, including transportation, are paid for by The Able Trust and corporate donations. Florida businesses are sponsoring student scholarships to underwrite all costs for the student to attend and his or her on-site needs for the event.

The Able Trust is currently seeking volunteers and scholarship sponsors for the YLF. For more information call Kristen Knapp at 888-838-2253.