California Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) for Students with Disabilities

YLF is an amazing program designed to empower young people and build their skills and confidence. This year’s forum will be held July 14 – 19, 2025, at California State University, Sacramento.

Who Can Attend?

California residents with disabilities who are high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors during the 2024-2025 school year (ending in June 2025) are eligible to attend. This includes students with an IEP or 504 plan.

Students with all types of disabilities are encouraged to apply, including those with physical, developmental, behavioral, mental health, learning, autism, neurodivergent, deaf or hard of hearing, and blind or low vision disabilities. Youth who demonstrate leadership potential in school and their communities are ideal candidates for this program.

What Does the Program Offer?

Selected YLF participants will:
• Spend a week in Sacramento learning about advocacy and leadership.
• Connect with peers, meet professionals with disabilities, and interact with state policymakers.
• Develop personal goals and create a leadership development plan.

The program covers all expenses for selected delegates, including transportation, housing, food, and reasonable accommodations.

The application deadline is February 28, 2025. For more details and to apply, visit dor.ca.gov/home/ylf.

This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in our community to grow their confidence, build critical skills, and prepare for their futures. I encourage you to share this information with students, families, and educators who may be interested.

Let’s work together to support and uplift the next generation of leaders in our community! If you have any questions or need additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.