The Alaska Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a two-part transition program for youth and young adults with disabilities. Here, participants will learn about resources and tools that can support their goals, how to navigate the wide world of disability resources, as well as what it means to be a community leader with a disability.
Participants will learn from a variety of experts on topics such as employment, benefits, independent living, self-advocacy, assistive technology, and much more! In addition to sessions with guest speakers, participants will meet peers and mentors with similar lived experiences.
As part of the YLF, participants will also explore their goals for the future and develop an action plan to achieve them. All participants will leave with a clear path to achieve their goals and have access to peer mentoring to support their efforts.
Regional YLF and Leadership Workshop
The Youth Leadership Forum is made up of two events, a 4 day Regional Conference and a 2 day Leadership Workshop. These two events will cover different but related topics and can be attended in any order. Together, they make up the Youth Leadership Forum.
The Regional Conference is a longer, overnight event that includes many guest speakers, team activities, and information on resources and tools. The Leadership Workshop is a smaller, 2-day program that brings the YLF to communities around Alaska. It focuses on workplace soft skills, leadership, and contains the goal-setting portion of YLF.
FAQ
To apply, you must:
- Live in Alaska
- Have a disability
- Be between the ages of 14 and 24.
No. We do not require documentation of disability status. You only need to self-identify as someone who has a disability.
Nothing. It is free for participants to apply to and attend the YLF!
The SILC can work with you to identify and provide reasonable accommodations. There will be a chance to note any specific needs during the application process.
We aim to serve all regions of Alaska. If there is not a YLF scheduled near you yet, there may be one in the works. You can contact us to discuss upcoming opportunities and the possibility of hosting a YLF in an area near you.
We’re so glad to hear that! The Youth Leadership Forum couldn’t succeed without dedicated community members such as yourself. The best way to make an impact is by spreading the word or referring those who you think would benefit from participating in the Youth Leadership Forum. Flyers and other materials are also available upon request.
If you have other questions, concerns, or need more information, please Contact Us or email us at info@alaskasilc.org. We are happy to answer your questions!