California Youth Leadership Forum For Students With Disabilities (YLF)
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YLF 2026 DELEGATE APPLICATION
The 2026 YLF will be held July 13 through July 18, 2026, at California State University, Sacramento.
If selected for the YLF program, delegates and staff are required to attend and participate during all scheduled in-person days.
Additional optional virtual and in-person post-YLF sessions including regional events will be held in the months after the week-long event. These workshops will focus on topics such as transitioning after high school, money management, post-secondary education, work experience and careers, and self-advocacy. All YLF Alumni are encouraged to participate when available.
At the week-long event, delegates will learn the following:
- Advocacy and leadership skills in a peer setting
- Meet with professionals with disabilities
- Meet state policymakers
- Develop goals through their personal and career leadership plan for their education, independent living and career goals
- Make lifelong friendships and create a community of support they can rely on for years to come
Please note: YLF planning partners continue to track health trends and safety guidance within California. All participants may be expected to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19, and to test negatively for COVID-19 in the 24 hours before arriving in Sacramento.
NO COST TO DELEGATES
There is no cost for delegates who are selected to attend. All costs including travel, lodging, meals, or any accommodations such as American Sign Language interpreters, Real-Time text captioners, and/or personal care assistants will be covered. Funding for the YLF is provided through a public-private partnership.
WHO CAN ATTEND?
California residents with a disability who are high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors during the 2025-2026 school year, ending in June 2026, are eligible to attend. This includes students with an IEP or 504 plan.
Students with all types of disabilities are encouraged to apply. This includes all categories identified under IDEA. Students who demonstrate leadership potential in school and in the community are best suited for this program.
APPLY NOW
The 2026 Delegate Application is available now! Apply by January 31, 2026.
For more information, read the 2026 Delegate Information Guide found on the Delegate Information page.
If you have questions or need additional information about the application process, please email us at ylf@dor.ca.gov or call us at 855-894-3436.
YLF VIDEO CLIPS
Watch our awesome promotional video featuring an original rap by YLF alumni:
California YLF Promotional Video.
Find out what past YLF delegates have to say about the YLF:
California YLF Delegate Testimonials.
View other videos of the week-long activities to see what happens at YLF including post-YLF sessions on our California YLF YouTube channel.
