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The Florida Grantor, Winter 2008

Florida Youth Leadership Forum Application Period is Open!NeW leaders

The Florida Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is an innovative four-day leadership training program for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors with disabilities. Delegates are selected from across Florida to gather in Tallahassee each July for an all-expenses paid experience to cultivate leadership, citizenship and social skills.

Throughout this motivational forum, delegates learn about disability rights laws, leadership, innovations in technology, and resources at all levels. Small working groups explore personal leadership, academic and career plans. A mentor’s luncheon and an etiquette dinner help expose delegates to career choices and provide them with an interactive learning environment for networking skills. Social events such as a tour of the Florida Capitol, dance and talent show round out an exciting, fun-filled weekend that helps delegates develop friendships that last a lifetime.

The Florida YLF is part of a national initiative of YLFs taking place in more than 30 states. The goal of the YLF is to develop a network of young adults with disabilities who realize their ability to pursue meaningful employment and societal contributions, while helping break down the parries to independence for people with disabilities. YLF also focuses on leadership by example by bringing in people with disabilities to serve as speakers, mentors and volunteers. The Able Trust hosted the first Florida Youth Leadership Forum in 2000. The event is underwritten by public and private sponsors whose contributions enable students to participate in the annual forum at no cost.

High School sophomores, juniors and seniors who are interested in applying should be aware that The Able Trust is now accepting applications for first year participants in the 2009 YLF, now scheduled for July 22-26 in Tallahassee. Application forms and other information can be obtained by calling The Able Trust Office at (888) 838-2253. Forms can also be found at, www.abletrust.org. There is no cost to participate for those selected for the 2009 Forum. All expenses, including travel, are paid by The Able Trust and its YLF partners and sponsors.