Related Initiatives
Stories
Blanca D. Martinez Gavina
"YALT allowed me realize my potential in the movement towards ensuring a safe future for all children in America. It allowed me to regroup and expand my knowledge on the issues that can be tackled on behalf of children." Read more
Stories
Megan Argillander
"Often times I get overwhelmed in the work I do, but being surrounded by all the amazing, talented, dedicated, and accomplished individuals at YALT inspired and motivated me to keep going and push forward." Read more
Stories
Sherita Diaz
"I just wanted to say that YALT was definitely a life-changing experience! It was an awesome learning experience that made me anxious to return to my community more strengthened and renewed in an effort to impact the lives of children and families." Read more
Stories
Kayla Vinson
"Attending YALT 2009 infused me with a new drive to advocate for America's children. It opened my eyes to the difference between direct service and advocacy and helped me to understand the necessity for both." Read more
Stories
Kadi Janssen
"Attending the YALT program affirmed my passion for advocacy around children's issues, and I was inspired to see so many other young people who are eager to be involved in this work and create a better path for children." Read more
Young Advocate Leadership Training (YALT®) Program
CDF's vision is to develop the next generation of leaders who are committed to social justice and improving the lives of all children in America. To help achieve this goal, one of the many programs that CDF offers is the Young Advocate Leadership Training (YALT®) program. CDF will offer a spring and fall YALT training for 2010:
Spring: April 22-25, 2010
Fall: October 8-10, 2010
Spring YALT Program
This Spring, 120 young leaders from across the country who have demonstrated a commitment to servant leadership, social justice, change, and an improved life for children through their involvement with CDF will gather at CDF Haley Farm on April 22-25, 2010. Representing targeted geographic areas, young leaders will work together to develop a national plan of action to strategically challenge and ultimately dismantle the cradle to prison pipeline. This nation crisis at the intersection of race and poverty negatively impacts the lives of all children in America.
YALT Highlights
YALT participants will:
- Be educated about CDF’s legislative campaigns and priorities.
- Develop action plans that compliment CDF’s priorities and foster change.
- Learn the essentials of grassroots organizing.
- Understand the historical framework of movement building.
- Engage in dynamic and interactive workshops and panels.
- Network with young leaders across the country.
Applying for the Spring YALT program:
The 2010 Spring YALT application is available by invitation only. Applicants who have been involved in CDF programs and/or one of CDF’s partnering organizations are personally invited to apply for this unique opportunity. Please send all YALT inquiries to yalt@childrensdefense.org. Revisit this site at a later date for information regarding the 2010 Fall YALT program and highlights of the upcoming Spring YALT program.
A Look at the Fall 2009 YALT program!
In October 2009, young leaders from 34 states and the District of Columbia attended the YALT program and focused on health reform for all children and pregnant women. Fall YALT participants stayed involved after the training, engaging in CDF’s Champions for Children’s Health Campaign. See YALT participants in action:
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