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The Florida Grantor, Summer 2005

Sixth Annual Youth Leadership Forum is a Hit!

The Able Trust hosted the Florida Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) for the sixth year in Tallahassee, July 21-24. Forty-six high school student delegates from across Florida attended the event, along with 19 YLF alumni who returned as junior staff and 17 adult facilitators who volunteered their time for the event. The YLF is designed to give delegates the opportunity to learn about career options, self-advocacy, personal leadership and resources available to them to live more independently.

During the four days spent in Tallahassee, the delegates were involved in a wide variety of activities. The students learned about dining etiquette as they enjoyed an appetizing dinner at the DoubleTree Hotel. While at the historic Old Capitol Steps, YLF participants were greeted by Lt. Governor Toni Jennings and Agricultural Commissioner Charles Bronson. The delegates were uplifted by the two dignitaries who helped give them confidence for the future.

Students also participated in a Mentors Luncheon on Florida State University’s campus. There, they were greeted by professionals, many with disabilities, who shared their experiences about careers that interested the students. The keynote speaker for the luncheon, Captain Winston Scott with the Florida Space Authority, fascinated the delegates, mentors and luncheon guests with his stories about his time in outer space. While at the Seminoles’ stadium, several FSU athletes stopped by to pay a visit to the delegates.

The week also entailed a community service project, informative and inspiring speakers, meaningful group discussions and good times during the Hawaiian Nights dance and karaoke night. Several of the delegates and junior staff chose to perform in the annual talent show as well. From singers to dancers and comedians to artists, the participants entertained the audience with their originality and creativity.

The YLF could not have been possible without the generous gift of time from our facilitators and junior staff or the monetary donations and sponsorships from corporations across the state. A big thanks to the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Florida Department of Education, Wachovia Foundation, SunTrust Bank and Brain & Spinal Cord Injury Program for the generous donations.

We would also like to thank Big Bend Transit for tending to all our transportation needs, Desloge Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment for providing medical equipment and the Commission for Transportation Disadvantaged and Tallahassee Rotary Club for volunteering members to assist us during the event.

In August, The Able Trust will be launching a brand new website dedicated to YLF. Be sure to check out the scrapbook pictures, YLF success stories and 2006 applications at www.floridaylf.org.