Youth with disabilities learn leadership skills

From the Contra Costa Times in California:

SACRAMENTO — From the wheelchair she uses because of her cerebral palsy, Alva Gardner sees issues others may overlook.

Take public restrooms. Sometimes able-bodied people use stalls reserved for the disabled, taking away from those who need the access, she said. Other times, diaper changing stations are placed in there.

Those are just two of the concerns that Gardner said she hoped to bring to state legislators' attention on July 30.

"I'm very into disability awareness and public speaking about it," said Gardner of Oakland. The recent Head-Royce School graduate is one of 53 California students in Sacramento this week, taking part in the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities.

The forum is intended to inspire the students to reach their career goals, live independently and get involved in their communities.

The program is in its 17th year in California, where it was founded. Similar programs now exist in 30 states and Puerto Rico.

The week's activities, held in the state Capitol or at Sacramento State, have included seeing the latest in assistive technology devices for the disabled, team-building exercises and learning about disabled history and culture.