Family Support Initiatives

Youth Information, Training and Resources Center

The intent of the youth projects is to provide capacity building for youth with DD in self advocacy, especially in regard to post high school education, training and employment activities. Programs offered youth opportunities to be employed in their projects, and created technical assistance materials for youth on topics such as choosing career paths, making healthy lifestyle choices, and money management.

ADD is currently funding the National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN), led by youth and emerging leaders. NYLN efforts include training and informing young people and youth allies through various mediums including webcasts, e-newsletters and national presentations, as well as conducting formal a evaluation, with a goal of sustainability of their efforts.

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Title: National Program - "National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN), National Youth Information Center (NYIC)"

Abstract:
The National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN) is an organization led by youth and emerging leaders with diverse disabilities. NYLN established the first youth-led national Youth Information Center (NYIC). NYLN is eager to take the NYIC to the next level , by way of evidenced based, youth directed leadership, to create and provide positive outcomes for young people with developmental disabilities in the areas of education, employment, independent living, health care, advocacy, and disability awareness and pride. The NYIC will serve as a support for state YIC development in North Carolina, New York, and Idaho; for curriculum and resource development; for organizational collaboration, public awareness, education, , and outreach; and for information exchange, empowerment, full inclusion and accessibility. These efforts will place specific emphasis on outreach to and including young people with underrepresented disabilities (i.e. cognitive, psychological, emotional), culturally diverse youth, and areas of need (i.e. areas of low socioeconomic status, rural communities).

Organization:
National Youth Leadership Network
221 S. Central Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501

Contact:
Betsy Valnes, Executive Director
Phone: 1-866-480-6565 ext 2
Voice: 605 224-5336 ext 225
Fax: 605 224-8320
Email Address: bvalnes@tie.net

Period:
9/30/2010 – 9/29/2011

Funding:
$100,000 per year

Project Officer:
Larissa Crossen
(202) 690-5999
E-mail Address: larissa.crossen@acf.hhs.gov

Project #:
90DN0225