High school students entering their junior and senior years can apply for the Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), which provides a unique opportunity for young people with disabilities to experience an intensive forum emphasizing leadership, independence and personal and career goal setting.

Students are selected to attend the Forum based on: the applicant's accomplishments and leadership potential (academic achievement, community service and participation in school and community activities); disability diversity; ethnic and racial diversity; and geographic representation.

YLF is held at Bowie State University, where participants:

• develop personal leadership plans and learn about leadership principles;
• interact with successful role models;
• attend a mentors' luncheon and meeting with Maryland government officials;
• visit an exhibit of assistive technology;
• find out about resources to help them achieve their goals.

The Youth Leadership Forum was initiated in 1992 by the California Governor's Committee on the Employment of Disabled Persons. This popular program has spread across the country and is now conducted annually in more than 30 states. Maryland conducted its first Forum in August 2000.

More information about the Maryland Youth Leadership Forum is available online at www.md-ylf.org or by calling the contact numbers listed below. Click here to download a PDF version of the YLF brochure.

What is the Youth Leadership Forum?
One Week Program for High School Students with all types of disabilities

Youth Leadership Forum Promotes:

• Leadership
• Independence
• Personal and career goal setting
• Disability Pride!

Where can I get more information?
Call Independence Now at 301-277-2839 for an application OR you can download the application on the YLF website.

There is no cost to attend.

Students with leadership capabilities who will be entering one of their final two years of high school in the fall are eligible to apply.

Visit the Youth Leadership Forum Website:  http://www.md-ylf.org

Major Sponsors:
Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services (funded through Grant #23166 from Assistance to States for Students with Disabilities, IDEA, Part B-State Grant 84-027)
Division of Rehabilitation Services
Maryland Department of Disabilities
Maryland Department of Human Resources
Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council
Independence Now, Inc.