DES Moines, Iowa — Thirteen Iowa students and young adults have completed the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council’s Youth Leadership Academy, a weeklong summer program focused on building leadership skills, self-advocacy and confidence among young people with disabilities.
The free, virtual program is designed for youth and young adults ages 14 to 21. Participants complete 10 hours of training focused on leadership, goal-setting, networking, mentoring, self-determination, disability rights and civic engagement.
The 2026 graduates were recognized during a ceremony at Blank Park Zoo. They also put their training into practice through a day of service and by participating in The Arc of Iowa’s “Hear Us Roar” Disability Pride celebration…