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The goal of ParentAdvocates.org
is to put tax dollar expenditures and other monies used or spent by our federal, state and/or city governments before your eyes and in your hands.

Through our website, you can learn your rights as a taxpayer and parent as well as to which programs, monies and more you may be entitled...and why you may not be able to exercise these rights.

Mission Statement

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Who We Are »
Betsy Combier

Help Us to Continue to Help Others »
Email: betsy.combier@gmail.com

 
The E-Accountability Foundation announces the

'A for Accountability' Award

to those who are willing to whistleblow unjust, misleading, or false actions and claims of the politico-educational complex in order to bring about educational reform in favor of children of all races, intellectual ability and economic status. They ask questions that need to be asked, such as "where is the money?" and "Why does it have to be this way?" and they never give up. These people have withstood adversity and have held those who seem not to believe in honesty, integrity and compassion accountable for their actions. The winners of our "A" work to expose wrong-doing not for themselves, but for others - total strangers - for the "Greater Good"of the community and, by their actions, exemplify courage and self-less passion. They are parent advocates. We salute you.

Winners of the "A":

Johnnie Mae Allen
David Possner
Dee Alpert
Aaron Carr
Harris Lirtzman
Hipolito Colon
Larry Fisher
The Giraffe Project and Giraffe Heroes' Program
Jimmy Kilpatrick and George Scott
Zach Kopplin
Matthew LaClair
Wangari Maathai
Erich Martel
Steve Orel, in memoriam, Interversity, and The World of Opportunity
Marla Ruzicka, in Memoriam
Nancy Swan
Bob Witanek
Peyton Wolcott
[ More Details » ]
 
Advocacy Resources for Youth and Parents Coping with Chronic Illness and Disability and Other issues
Where do you go to find resources for your child who may have health issues?
          
The Pediatric Network

LINK

Youth Leadership Forum for Students With Disabilities Questions and Answers

What is the Youth Leadership Forum ?

The Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities (YLF) is a unique career leadership training program for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities. By serving as delegates from their communities at a four-day event in their state capital, young people with disabilities cultivate leadership, citizenship, and social skills.

The program was developed by the California Governors Committee for Employment of Disabled Persons in 1992. The Office of Disability Employment Policy seeks to replicate this initiative around the nation. The YLF is implemented at the state level by state and local partners.

Why is the YLF only for Students with Disabilities?

It is critical that people with disabilities growing into adulthood learn to identify themselves with pride as individuals and as members of the very accomplished disability community. By providing a framework of history and an atmosphere of encouragement, the YLF offers peers with common challenges and experiences the opportunity to learn from one another.

Delegates gain access to vital resources related to assistive technology, community support, and civil rights. Successful men and women with disabilities serve as role models in helping youth realize their ability, right, and obligation to pursue meaningful employment and contribute to society.

What is the YLF All About ?

The educational and motivational forum involves an intense schedule. Throughout the training, small "working groups" explore personal leadership and career plans. Social, artistic, athletic, and recreational activities abound, as these are part of leading a well-rounded life. Guest speakers address such topics as disability rights laws, innovations in technology, and resources at all levels. A guided tour of the state capitol involves interaction with members of the press, government dignitaries, and often the governor. A farewell dance is a time to celebrate accomplishments with new friends.

The key to the YLF is leadership by example. Adults with disabilities who have traveled the same path these young people are facing serve as faculty and staff. Many other volunteers, some with disabilities and some without, help to make the program a success.

YLF alumni take with them an obligation to follow through on goals outlined in "personal leadership plans" that they have written for themselves. In California, past participants of this program have developed an alumni newsletter to share resources. In addition, follow-up activities including corporate mentorships and internships have been established in order to continue networking activities. Often alumni return to the YLF in later years as volunteer staff.

How are delegates selected for the forum?

The delegates are chosen through a statewide competition that seeks students with disabilities who have leadership potential. Each applicant submits a standard form, an essay, and letters of recommendation. The group that is selected is representative of the state in terms of geography, gender, economic status, ethnicity, and types of disabilities.

Is there a cost for Students to attend?

No. The commitment of the YLF is to enable youth with disabilities to grow personally, socially, and academically, and to fulfill their potential in their work and their lives. No student should be denied this opportunity because of economic hardship. All costs, including transportation, are paid for through fundraising, sponsored scholarships, and corporate donations.

Whom do I contact for more information?

Alicia Epstein
Office of Disability Employment Policy
1331 F Street, NW
Washington, DC 20004
Telephone: (202)693-7880
Fax: (202)693-7888
E-mail: Alicia Epstein .
Internet: http://www.dol.gov/odep/

Assertiveness Skills

Parent Training and Information Centers

PACER

Family Resource Center on Disabilities

FAPE

Parents Engaged in Education Reform

Consortium For Citizens With Disabilities education Task Force

Center For Law and Education

Exceptional Parent

Organizations Advocating for Kids with Disabilities

Law Links

 
© 2003 The E-Accountability Foundation