The Ohio Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a four-day leadership training program for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. Many young people with disabilities now have more options and more challenges than at any other time in our nation's history. By providing a framework of history, awareness, peer support, and an atmosphere of encouragement, the students gain vital access to assistive technology, community support and civil rights. YLF enables students with disabilities to serve as role models in their community and the state of Ohio. It is through the Youth Leadership Forum that students will realize their ability, rights and obligation to pursue meaningful employment and contribute to society.
Tyson Gentry, a former Ohio State University football player who was injured and paralyzed during a practice, speaks to the students about determination and perseverance at a luncheon on the last day of the conference. Additional remarks are given by Jermaine Brown, Chair of the Governor's Council on People with Disabilities.