By Maddie Evans, Federation for Children with Special Needs
This year marks an exciting milestone for FCSN’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB) as we welcome a new cohort of members while celebrating the accomplishments of the young leaders who helped build the program from the ground up.
Over the past several months, we have welcomed new members, launched our first Leadership Mentor program, and worked closely with YAB alumni to ensure their knowledge, experience, and leadership continue to shape the board’s future. As the YAB’s first major cohort transition, this process has helped create a strong foundation for future generations of youth leaders.
During interviews, new members consistently shared three goals they hoped to develop through the YAB: collaboration, public speaking, and advocacy. This year’s programming was designed with those priorities in mind.
From their very first meeting, members began practicing collaboration through activities that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and community-building. Throughout the year, they will continue working together on projects, discussions, and feedback sessions that allow them to share their perspectives and help shape programs that impact youth and families across Massachusetts.
Public speaking will also play a central role in the YAB experience. Members will develop elevator pitches, participate in panels and focus groups, and gain opportunities to share their experiences and ideas with broader audiences. As they build confidence in speaking up, they will also strengthen their advocacy skills and learn how their voices can influence change.
While a new cohort begins its journey, the YAB’s alumni continue to play an important role in the program’s growth.
As members of the inaugural cohort, these seven young leaders helped establish the culture, values, and vision of the Youth Advisory Board. Today, they continue supporting the program as mentors, facilitators, presenters, and advocates.
Many alumni credit the YAB with helping them develop confidence, leadership skills, and meaningful connections. Several have gone on to attend college, serve on nonprofit boards, co-found community organizations, present at conferences, and advocate for issues affecting people with disabilities.
A common theme throughout their reflections was the sense of belonging they found through the YAB. Members spoke about building friendships, finding their voices, strengthening their public speaking skills, and discovering that their experiences and perspectives matter.
As one alumnus shared, “YAB helped me develop my speaking style and gave me a place where I could share my ideas freely. It’s an experience that will always stay with me.”
We are incredibly grateful to our alumni for the foundation they have built, to our new cohort for the energy and ideas they bring, and to the many families, community leaders, and partners who continue to support the YAB’s growth.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to see this new generation of leaders learn from those who came before them and create their own lasting impact.
Be sure to follow FCSN on social media this summer for YAB updates, youth-led content, and information about upcoming opportunities and events.