
Shaping a Better
Future for Youth
With Disabilities
"Leadership is demonstrated, not designated. "
Jennifer Jones
NYLN Founding Chair
About the NYLN
The National Youth Leadership Network is an organization of young leaders with disabilities from across the U.S. and its territories. Governed by its Governing Board, the NYLN seeks to promote leadership development and education that ensures all youth with disabilities have the opportunity to attain their maximum, unique, personal potential. The NYLN:
Fosters the involvement of young leaders with disabilities in all aspects of society at national, state and local levels.
Increases opportunities for employment, independent living and health and wellness among young people of diverse race, ethnicity and disability.
Communicates about issues that are important to youth with disabilities and the policies and practices that affect their lives.
NYLN Activities
National Youth Leadership Conference and Institutes
Conferences in Washington, DC help prepare the next generation of disability leaders and identify ways to improve policies and supports for young people with disabilities. Participants learn from national disability leaders, public officials, and other young leaders with disabilities from all over the country.
Mentorship
National disability leaders provide mentorship for members of the Governing Board. They share experiences, advice and encouragement that assists members to develop their leadership skills and connections.
Youth-Directed Research
The Governing Board gathers information about the experiences of young people with disabilities and what youth think is important for building a successful adult life.
NYLN Resources
Future Directions Agenda
The NYLN is a voice for youth with disabilities across the United States. We develop an agenda for improving policies and services, and for encouraging communication among youth and policymakers.
Resource Consultants
Young leaders with disabilities are available to serve on boards and committees, conduct presentations, develop materials, and facilitate discussions about issues facing youth with disabilities.
For more information, contact www.nyln.org
Alison Turner
NYLN Coordinator
Center on Self-Determination,
3608 SE Powell Blvd.
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 232-9154, ext. 113
(800) 410-7069, ext. 113
E-mail: turneali@ohsu.edu
NYLN Support
Center on Self-Determination
Oregon Institute on Disability
and Development
Oregon Health & Science University
Academy for Educational Development
Federal Sponsors US Department of Education
Office of Special Education Programs
National Council on Disability
Social Security Administration
US Department of Health and Human Services
Administration on Developmental Disabilities
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
HRSA/Maternal and Child Health Bureau
US Department of Labor
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