MYLF
The Missouri Youth Leadership Forum (MYLF) is a unique career leadership-training program for high school students with disabilities, ages 16 – 21. Youth delegates are selected from their
local communities to cultivate leadership, citizenship and social skills at this four-day summer program. The next MYLF will be held July 22 – 25, 2012.
What are the goals of MYLF?
- Develop leadership skills to ensure that all youth with disabilities will realize their full potential
- Promote inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society
- Participate in policymaking or practices that affect youth people with disabilities
Why is MYLF only for students with disabilities?
It is important for students with disabilities to meet other students who share similar experiences. Through the course of four days, students build pride and self-esteem and learn from each other. Youth begin building a supportive community.
The key success to MYLF is leadership by example. As part of the program, students meet successful adults with disabilities who share similar challenges. This framework provides an atmosphere of encouragement which helps youth realize their ability to pursue meaningful employment and become contributing members of society.
How are students selected?
Youth are selected through a stadewide competitive process that seeks students with disabilities who have leadership potential. Each applicant submits a standard application, resume and three letters of recommendation.
The student delegates will represent a cross section of Missouri in terms of geography, gender, economic status, ethnicity and different types of disabilities.
What is the agenda?
- Learning and applying leadership principles
- Understanding the disability experience and sharing resources
- Assistive technology
- Building independent living skills and setting career goals
- Developing advocacy skills
What is the cost?
MYLF is available to student delegates at NO COST. If you would like to help defray the cost of this program, please make your tax-deductible donation to MYLF by clicking the “Donate” button to the right and indicating the gift should go to MYLF in the subject line or mail to:
Services for Independent Living
Attention: Missouri Youth Leadership Forum
1401 Hathman Place
Columbia, Missouri 65201
How do I apply?
Download the application (below) and mail, fax or email to:
Governor’s Council on Disability
Missouri Youth Leadership Forum
P.O. Box 1668
Jefferson City, Missouri 65201-1668
(Fax) 573-526-4109
gcd@oa.mo.gov
Who Sponsors MYLF?
MYLF is sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Disability and Services for Independent Living.