WHAT WE DO
Young Adult Leadership Council
Your Voice, Your Council.
Together we can change the future for those who learn differently.
NCLD seeks to build a movement of young leaders with learning and attention issues who are armed with the knowledge and skills to break down barriers for themselves and their peers. Our Young Adult Leadership Council (YALC) harnesses the power and voices of young leaders with the shared goal to improve the lives of the 1 in 5 people with learning disabilities and attention issues (ie. dyslexia, dyscalculia, nonverbal learning disability, ADHD, specific learning disability, etc.).
The YALC is a one-year volunteer opportunity to advise NCLD on key policy issues that impact young adults, and use your voice to advocate for change. NCLD will help develop your leadership skills and policy knowledge so you can be a lifelong advocate. NCLD encourages individuals who identify as Black or African American, Native American, Latino or Hispanic, Asian, or part of the LGBTQIA community to apply. As part of our learning, we will center diversity, equity and inclusion into discussions to create a brave space for all young leaders.
Applications close on July 22, 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What qualities is NCLD looking for in YALC members?
A1: NCLD is looking for individuals with a learning and/or attention issue who possess these qualities:
- Excited to learn and grow as a leader
- Open to having tough and personal conversations
- Offers a diversity of experiences, backgrounds, race and ethnicity
- A desire to advocate for issues that improve the lives of students with learning and attention issues
Q2: What opportunities can YALC members expect?
A2: Young Adult Leadership Council members will:
- Attend in-person and virtual advocacy days
- Speak at NCLD events promoting Young Adult policy priorities
- Create video and written content for NCLD.org
- Advise NCLD on policy issues that impact young adults
Q3: What are learning and attention issues?
A3: Learning and attention issues are brain based difficulties in reading, writing, math, organization, focus, listening comprehension, social skills, motor skills or a combination of these. Learning and attention issues are also known as learning disabilities (dyslexia, dyscalculia, etc.) and ADHD. Others may also use the term learning differences. Many students with learning disabilities have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or a 504 Plan while in school, but that is not a requirement to join the Young Adult Leadership Council. Learn more here.
*Autism Spectrum Disorder is not considered a learning disability for the purposes of NCLD.
Q4: How do I apply?
A4: Start your application here! If you are selected to move on to the next round, you will receive an email request for an interview. Applications close July 22, 2022.
Your Voice, Your Council.
Tell Congress: Pass the RISE Act
We need your help! Ask your member of Congress to support students with learning and attention issues.
Support NCLD
Thanks to support from generous partners like you, we are able to create programs and resources to support the 1 in 5 individuals with learning and attention issues nationwide.