One of the goals of the Rural Institute Transition and Employment Projects is to expand the vision of what is possible for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities to learn, live, work and play in their communities.  In collaboration with Youth Advisory Board members, project staff creates monthly Transition Listserv announcements and an annual publication to highlight and share innovative examples and stories of young adults with developmental disabilities being active, participating members of their communities.  Information is shared about how the supports necessary to help them realize these possibilities were identified and funded or provided. 

We are looking for examples of young people (age 34 and younger) in Montana who have a developmental disability according to the Montana definition (see below) and have creatively organized their supports to:

• Live in the community (on their own or with family or friends) and/or
• Work in the community (including owning their own business) and/or
• Access inclusive education (high school, college, trade school, community classes) and/or
• Participate in recreation and leisure activities that are inclusive (that is, alongside people without disabilities)

We want examples of supports that have been creatively organized around the person, individualized to their interests and needs.  These supports can be organized and managed by a funded adult agency or family and friends.  We are also looking for examples of creative funding such as blended services and natural supports, use of Social Security Administration work incentives, privately funded services or traded or bartered supports.

To nominate and emerging leader both forms below need to be completed and returned to the address listed on the form.

Emerging Leader Nomination Form

Rural Institute Media Consent Form

Check out previous Emerging Leaders showcased over the last several years.

2009 - Emerging Leader Showcase I (pdf)
2010 - Emerging Leader Showcase II (pdf)
2011 Casey's Story
2011 Maclaen's Story
2011 Amy's Story
2011 Patrick's Story
2011 Sierra Story
2011 Isaac's Story
2011 Cambria's Story
2011 Carley's Story
2011 Travis's Story
2011 Mathalia's Story
2011 Alyssa's Story
2012 Danielle's Story
2012 Brock's Story