University of YOUTH POWER!
June 15-18 2015, YOUTH POWER! will host the second annual University of YOUTH POWER! (UYP). UYP is a for-youth-by-youth social justice conference that is modeled after a college experience. Young people ages 18 to 30 may register with a major of Peer Advocacy or Systems Advocacy. UYP will take place in Albany, New York at the College of Saint Rose. Resident students will be provided overnight accommodations in the apartment style dormitory as well as meals on campus.
Peer Advocacy: In this major, young people will develop competencies in areas such as: strategic sharing, engagement techniques, facilitation, advocacy, communication, self-help, wellness tools, addressing and preventing addiction, trauma informed approaches, identifying community based services, independent living, anti-stigma, building career pathways, rights and responsibilities, cultural competency, strength- based approaches, social marketing, budgeting and youth development.
Systems Advocacy: In this major, young people will develop competencies in areas such as: Advocacy, leading boards and committees, public speaking, understanding government structures, terminology, campaign development, artivism, addressing disparities, recognizing privilege, disability history, systems coordination, professional writing, budgeting, networking, sustaining the movement, understanding politics and playing the game, rights and protection, keepin' it fresh.
In honor of the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) UYP15 will include a variety of classes and activities focused on the rights and history of the ADA. UYP aims to empower and educate a New Generation of ADA Leaders.
Young leaders and advocates do not want to miss this event. Youth programs should consider sponsoring their youth to attend this great training and networking opportunity. Scholarships are also available online and applications must be submitted by May 30th. For more information, visit http://www.youthpowerny.org/uyp/
