YLF - Parents and Families

Your Child's Journey. Our Shared Commitment.

Watching your child grow into a confident, independent young adult is both exciting and emotional. At the California Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), we understand that this experience is not just a milestone for delegates—it's a milestone for families, too.

YLF provides a supportive, accessible, and welcoming environment where youth with disabilities can build confidence, develop leadership skills, make lifelong friendships, and explore their future. Throughout every program, our staff and volunteers are committed to creating a safe and inclusive experience where every delegate is respected, encouraged, and empowered to succeed.

Many families tell us that their child returns home with greater confidence, stronger self-advocacy skills, and a renewed sense of possibility.

What families can expect

Our goal is to help delegates grow while giving families peace of mind.

YLF provides:

• Accessible and inclusive programming
• Experienced staff and trained volunteers
• Reasonable accommodations based on individual needs
• Opportunities for delegates to build independence in a supportive environment
• A welcoming community that celebrates disability as a valued part of identity

We know every delegate is unique, and we work closely with families to help ensure each young person has the support they need to fully participate.

Supporting the transition to adulthood

Growing up means learning to make decisions, solve problems, and advocate for yourself.

YLF helps delegates practice these important life skills while surrounded by supportive peers and mentors who understand their experiences. Families often tell us that this experience becomes a turning point, helping their child gain confidence that extends well beyond the program.

A Parent's Perspective

"14 years of public school never helped the social skills aspect of life the way YLF did in (four) days. I arrived on Friday to get (my son). The group was at the State Capitol and walking back to the Grand ballroom. Looking at (my son) through the window panels of the Grand, I saw a young adult I had never seen before. He was helping to lead the group across a lighted intersection in midtown with confidence. It was quite a moment for me as a parent. YLF moved us into a new realm." - Parent of YLF Delegate

Resources for families

The transition to adulthood doesn't happen in one week—it happens over time. YLF is just one part of a larger network of support available throughout California.

Families may benefit from learning more about:

• California Department of Rehabilitation Student Services
• California Independent Living Centers
• Regional Centers
• College disability support services
• Employment and career preparation
• Financial independence resources
• Assistive technology
• Transportation options
• Benefits planning
• Youth leadership and advocacy organizations

Stay Connected

Whether your child is preparing to attend YLF, currently participating, or has become one of our alumni, we invite you to stay connected with our community.

Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, and explore opportunities to continue supporting your young adult's leadership journey.

Together, we can help young people with disabilities build confidence, discover their strengths, and create the future they imagine.