An annual scholarship program for outstanding students who are pursing a post-secondary education is one of the Commission's projects. The generous gifts of individuals and business have made it possible for the Commission to award scholarships through the years to many students with disabilities who have been successful in becoming productive, contributing members of society. Recipients have entered such professions as medicine, law, education, as well as a variety of occupations in the public and private sector. Frequently, scholarship recipients have commented that, although the monetary amounts have been very helpful to them in completing their education, perhaps the greatest benefit has been that knowing that others believed in their abilities.

Scholarships are awarded to students based upon financial need, severity of disability and resulting functional limitations, academic achievement, desire for further education and contributions to the community. There are far more deserving applicants each year than there is money for scholarships. Those selected to receive scholarships are honored each June at an awards reception and, at that time, donors are given the special recognition they so richly deserve.

Funding for scholarships is made possible by contributions to the Commission's annual scholarship fund. The Commission also established a scholarship endowment fund over three years ago in hopes of ensuring the availability of scholarships in the future. The Arkansas Community Foundation serves as the Commission's fiscal agent; therefore, contributions to both the annual scholarship fund and the endowment fund are tax deductible

Youth Leadership Forum

Each year, the Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities (Commission) sponsors a Youth Leadership Forum (YLF). The first YLF was held on the campus of the University
of Central Arkansas at Conway on July 11-14, 2000.

The Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities (YLF) is a unique career leadership training program for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities. It is imperative that people with disabilities growing into adulthood learn to identify themselves with pride as individuals and as members of the disability community. By serving as delegates from their communities at a four-day event, the young people with disabilities cultivate leadership, citizenship, and social skills. Successful women and men with disabilities attend the YLF and serve as role models in helping the delegates realize their ability, right, and obligations to pursue purposeful employment and contribute to society.

No student should be denied this opportunity because of an economic hardship. All cost, including transportation, will be borne through fund raising, sponsored scholarships, and corporate donations. For additional YLF information, please contact Mr. Barry Vuletich, Executive Director.