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Empowering youths with disabilities – The Montana Youth Leadership Forum (MYLF)

The Montana Youth Leadership Forum (MYLF) http://www.montanaylf.org/ is a unique training program for high-school students with disabilities, according to Program Director June Hermanson.

“It is an opportunity for youth with disabilities to learn who they are within the disability community and society as a whole,” she said.

Sierra Lode, almost 23, is an ambassador for the MYLF. She said that being involved with the program has given her the confidence to take college classes, give presentations to audiences of all ages and to testify at the Montana State Legislature.

Lode is a 2002 Capital High School graduate and has cerebral palsy. Today, she describes herself as a teacher and a leader on disabilities issues. However, there was a time in her life when her self-confidence was low and her sense of self-worth left much to be desired.

“Looking back at freshman year, I realize I needed this experience,” Lode said. “I didn’t know how much at the time.”

Now she proudly says, “I can’t talk, walk or use my hands — I can however, be heard.”

By ALANA LISTOE – IR Staff Writer

Full Story: http://helenair.com/articles/2006/06/25/helena_top/a01062506_04.txt

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