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. In collaboration with Rural Institute Consumer Advisory Council members, project staff creates monthly Transition Listserv announcements to highlight and share stories of young Montanans with developmental disabilities living, learning, working and actively participating in their communities.

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 an 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.