Arizona Youth Leadership Forum

ALL AZYLF 2024 SUMMER CONFERENCE APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY 11:59 PM ON FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2024. Please use one of the links below to submit your application. Applicants may only apply for ONE conference only.

Although online applications are preferred, we recognize this submission method may not work for everyone. In addition, we strive to provide information in the language and format that best meets your needs. So, please reach out to us if you have questions, are in need of an alternative submission method, or have any difficulty at all. Diverse Ability Incorporated strives to make this a successful process for all, and will do all that we can to support each applicant. Email us at: admin@diverseabilityincorporated.org or call us at: 602-425-5135, and we will work it out together.

Reminder: Graduates of previous AZYLF conferences are ineligible to reapply as a participant for an AZYLF conference that they have already graduated from. However, youth may apply to participate in AZYLF for more than one community, provided they meet the eligibility requirements for each. We encourage Graduates to actively engage with the AZYLEI Alumni Association. To do so, visit our Arizona Youth Leadership and Engagement Initiatives Alumni Association page at: https://diverseabilityincorporated.org/arizona-youth-leadership-initiatives-azyli-alumni-association/

As applications are received, Diverse Ability Incorporated will reach out to each applicant to schedule a group orientation over videoconference, so that participants and their supporters feel comfortable and prepared for this life-enhancing experience, and receive instructions for next steps.

As part of the application process, paperwork required for funding may also be required, such as Pre-ETS forms for those ages 14-22. (See “Required Forms for students who have disabilities ages 14-22”)

There is no charge for youth and young adults to participate in AZYLF, and accommodations such as ASL interpreters are provided at no cost to participants. Please list any accommodation needs in your application.

If you are ages 14-22 and are currently a student, your participation in AZYLF for Teens and Young Adults who identify as being part of the Disability Community is funded by the Arizona Department of Rehabilitation Services Administration and completion of the Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) form is required, prior to AZYLF.

You will find a fillable Pre-ETS form to complete HERE. Please use the button below to upload your completed Pre-ETS form as soon as possible. This documentation is required before your AZYLF conference begins.

You may also email your form and any supporting documents to: admin@diverseabilityincorporated.org.

Page 1: Needs to be completed by you AND legal guardian or parent (if applicable).

Page 2: Needs to be completed by a professional that can verify that you are a student who has a disability. A professional may be any of the following: teacher, school counselor, principal, disability resource center, Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, or a medical practitioner, such as a doctor, or therapist. If you are unable to obtain verification from a professional, you can submit a copy of your IEP, 504 plan, SSI/SSDI award letter or a medical diagnosis document that states that you are a person who has a disability along with a completed Page 1, and proof of school enrollment.

If you are a minor, or not your own guardian, your parent or guardian will need to assist and co-sign these documents with you. Even if you are a legal adult, you may benefit from support in completing these documents. If you do not have internet access, or have any other difficulties, please contact us right away, so we can find a solution.

Email: admin@diverseabilityincorporated.org
Phone: 602-425-5135

All participants at AZYLF conferences are expected to contribute to a positive and productive culture, and must:

• • Communicate with AZYLF Conference planning team members regarding conference logistics and return of required documentation.
  • Return all required information by established deadlines, and prior to participation.
  • Prioritize AZYLF, and plan to be fully present for all conference activities.
  • Maintain an equitable and respectful attitude toward peers, presenters, and facilitators.
  • Headsets, radios, electronic devices, and cellular phones that are not being used for participation in AZYLF are not permitted during scheduled AZYLF activities. Use of such items will be permitted during designated breaks unless their use has been identified as a reasonable accommodation.
  • Parents/Guardians/Other Supporters, will be asked to allow youth time and space, free from interruption, throughout the AZYLF conference, to maximize their opportunity to learn and grow, challenge themselves, and engage to the fullest. Optimal times for checking in will be shared during orientation and in follow up communication.
  • Failure to honor these expectations may result in the youth being unable to continue participating, which may involve removal from the conference immediately and at their own expense or the expense of their parent/guardian. Submission of your confirmation form includes your acceptance of, and agreement to, following these expectations.