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) is a 2-year leadership fellowship that 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.
As a young adult with a learning or attention issue, you are powerful, passionate and part of a community. YOU are a leader. Join other leaders to tackle the issues you care about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What qualities is NCLD looking for in YALC members?
A1: NCLD is looking for individuals, aged 18-26, 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 do YALC members do during their 2-year term?
A2: Young Adult Leadership Council members will:
- Develop a leadership project over the course of their two years on the Council
- Attend in-person and virtual advocacy days
- Speak at NCLD events promoting Young Adult policy priorities
- Create video and written content for NCLD.org
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! Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If you are selected to move on to the next round, you will receive an email request for an interview. Applications close August 15, 2020.
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.