The Numotion Foundation was proud to have served as an event sponsor of Youth LEAD NC and their annual North Carolina Youth Leadership Forum (NCYLF), held July 20th through 24th at North Carolina State University.
NCYLF, a statewide, cross-disability, overnight event, is a unique opportunity for youth and young adults with disabilities, ages 15-30, to experience independence firsthand. Participants are provided exposure to a college campus by sharing a dorm room, eating at a dining hall, and advocating for themselves.
Over 5 days, NCYLF engaged the 47 participants in both small and large group discussions and workshops on topics such as: self-advocacy, disability pride, assistive technology, independent living, employment skills, career exploration, higher education, legislative advocacy, the Disability Rights Movement, and community participation. Team building and fun social activities during the evenings help build camaraderie between participants and lifelong friendships are often formed at NCYLF!
20 delegates, each first time participants, were selected to attend this year’s event. They were led and supported by YLF alumni who returned in one of the following staff roles: peer mentors, group leaders, or background staff.
NCYLF is a completely free event to all participants and provides all disability related accommodations, such as personal care assistants, sign language interpreters, and alternate formats, to make the program fully inclusive for all.
“NCYLF is a truly life-changing event for the youth and young adults with disabilities who attend. This event shows delegates what is possible for their futures and that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. NCYLF equips delegates with the skills, knowledge, and peer support that they need to be the next generation of disability rights leaders and lead full and meaningful lives,” stated Kay McMillan, Founding Board Chair and Executive Director of Youth LEAD NC.
Youth LEAD NC relies on the support of our donors and sponsors to make NCYLF a truly life-changing experience for its participants. Our organization is incredibly thankful for the Numotion Foundation’s support of the 2024 NCYLF!
To learn more about Youth LEAD NC, its programs, and those they serve, please visit: https://www.youthleadnc.org/
