Guideposts for Success: Youth Development & Leadership

Youth Development & Leadership

In order to control and direct their own lives based on informed decisions, all youth need:

• Mentoring activities designed to establish strong relationships with adults through formal and informal settings;
• Peer-to-peer mentoring opportunities;
• Exposure to role models in a variety of contexts;
• Training in skills such as self-advocacy and conflict resolution;
• Exposure to personal leadership and youth development activities, including community service; and,
• Opportunities that allow youth to exercise leadership and build self-esteem.

Youth with disabilities also need:

• Mentors and role models including persons with and without disabilities; and,
• An understanding of disability history, culture, and disability public policy issues as well as their rights and responsibilities.

Read the other Guideposts:

School-Based Preparatory Experiences

Career Preparation & Work-Based Learning Experiences

Connecting Activities

Family Involvement & Supports