As part of the second year of our commitment to the kids in Hawaii, staff and volunteers from the Always Dream Foundation traveled to the Islands to participate in a Youth Leadership Forum. The Forum was developed to provide kids with disabilities, and their friends, an opportunity to learn leadership and independent living skills through useful, fun, and interactive activities.
In addition to team building exercises there were smaller break out sessions in beading, quilt making, swimming, country line dancing, and the latest in computer technology……. everyone had the chance to demonstrate, and expand, his or her own unique set of talents. A skating party hosted by the Ice Palace just outside of Honolulu, provided an unforgettable opportunity for all to challenge themselves on the ice. Local instructors generously donated their time (early Sunday morning!). Special awards were given to those who, in the eyes of their peers, demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities. It is our hope that everyone who participated came away with a sense of empowerment and a new understanding that they truly have the ability to positively affect their own lives.