Below is a list of national resources for youth with disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood and seeking leadership opportunities:

The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
NCIL supports leadership development for youth with disabilities, particularly around independent living and advocacy. They offer training and resources for engaging in the disability rights movement and promoting independent living.
Website: ncil.org

Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL)
APRIL advocates for and supports individuals with disabilities in rural areas. They provide leadership training, resources, and programs specifically tailored to youth in rural communities, helping them develop self-advocacy, leadership, and independent living skills.
Website: april-rural.org

The Arc’s National Center on Leadership for Youth (NCLY)
The Arc focuses on empowering youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities through leadership training and advocacy. Their programs offer leadership opportunities and teach youth about community involvement and public policy.
Website: thearc.org

The Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL)
IEL offers programs that focus on developing leadership skills in youth with disabilities, with a special emphasis on public policy and creating systemic change. They organize leadership summits, advocacy training, and workshops.
Website: iel.org

Student Leadership Network (SLN)
SLN provides leadership opportunities for students with disabilities, focusing on higher education. Their programs are designed to help students with disabilities develop leadership and advocacy skills, preparing them for success in education and careers.
Website: studentleadershipnetwork.org

National Federation of the Blind (NFB) – Youth Programs
NFB offers leadership programs for blind and low-vision youth, including mentorship and opportunities to develop self-advocacy and leadership skills. They hold annual events and conferences that encourage leadership and community involvement.
Website: nfb.org

The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)
DREDF focuses on advocacy and leadership training for individuals with disabilities. Their programs support youth with disabilities in becoming self-advocates and leaders in the disability rights movement.
Website: dredf.org