About YLF | Texas Statewide Youth Leadership Forum (YLF)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When and where is the Texas YLF held?
A: The week-long YLF takes place on a university campus near Austin, TX each summer.

Q: How do you select your 30 delegates?
A: YLF delegates must be preparing to enter either their junior or senior year in high school at the time of the YLF. They must fill out an application to be considered. Emphasis is placed on the student's demonstration of leadership potential, participation in extra-curricular activities, school and/or community involvement, and the ability to interact well with other students. Geographic location, ethnicity and disability type are also considered so that the YLF represents a diverse group of students.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: There is absolutely no charge for student delegates to attend the YLF. All costs— transportation, housing, and meals—are paid for by our sponsors.

About the Texas YLF

Overview
The Texas Statewide Youth Leadership Forum, co-sponsored by Texas A&M University, the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, and the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, provides training and experiences to youth with disabilities to advance the development of their leadership and advocacy skills.

Our goal is to develop a network of young adults with disabilities who are capable of advocating for individuals with disabilities and influencing policy development. Our expectation is that the youth who complete the Forum will become role models for other youth with disabilities in employment, independent living, and other adult living areas.

History
The YLF was originally created by the California Governor’s Committee for Employment of Persons with Disabilities in 1992. Its unique curriculum is based on both existing successful leadership programs and promising practices, which teach young people to become leaders and advocates for the disability community. Currently 38 states host YLFs for students with disabilities.

Basic Structure
At the YLF, delegates learn the history of the disability rights movement and new legislation that has been created as a result. They take part in career and employment activities and engage in legislative activities at the Capitol, such as a mock legislative session, a tour of the facilities and meeting with the governor.

As always, we have lots of fun with daily recreational activities, and a talent show/dance!

NEW! Summer 2008 Schedule

What to Expect
Participants leave the Texas YLF equipped with:

Leadership plans to implement upon return to his/her community
Academic and career goals
Work ethics and a belief that work is not only a right but also a social obligation to reach his/her full potential
A resource development plan in order to attain continued or more complete independence through technology, community support peer mentoring, and civil rights