Young people with disabilities have more opportunities and more challenges than at any other time in our nation’s history. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) offers unprecedented opportunities for young people with disabilities to fully develop as constructive, contributing members of our society. However, many young people need encouragement and information about resources to develop as leaders in their communities. This forum will provide the students the opportunity to learn from each other and from successful adults with disabilities who are recognized leaders and role models. Such a forum benefits not only the participants, but all young people with disabilities, the communities in general, and the adults who assist in producing the forum.
The Michigan Youth Leadership Forum Steering Committee is looking for high school students with disabilities who have shown leadership potential to apply for the Michigan Youth Leadership Forum. The Forum will take place July 17-20, 2000, at Michigan State University in East Lansing. The four-day forum includes many exciting, educational activities to help students with disabilities toward their career goals.
The forum is for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities who are leaders or who have demonstrated leadership potential in their communities and schools (high school juniors and seniors in the 2000-2001 school year).
The Forum is a career leadership training program which will enable students with disabilities to learn from each other and from successful adults with disabilities. Core curriculum will include the history of the disability movement, career development, and community and civic involvement. The forum will include small group discussions with fellow students, large group presentations, and activities such as dance, talent show, formal luncheon with community leaders, and a meeting in the Governor’s Office. The deadline for the return of applications is December 31, 1999. Approximately 30 students will be selected through a competitive process.
If you have questions or need more information, please contact:
Margaret Heiser
Michigan Commission on Disability Concerns
Family Independence Agency
Voice or TTY: 517-334-8355
Fax: 517-334-6637
E-mail: heiserm2@state.mi.us