Working directly with young people is critical to understand how to best
support them in their journey to become as independent as possible.
ECAC coordinates a youth leadership team that meets monthly, and
also conducts several trainings for youth around topics related to transition
and self-determination.
ECAC values youth voices and creates opportunities that are youth driven.
ECAC Youth Advisory Groups
We are excited to share some updates about ECAC’s Youth Advisory Teams (YAT) and Junior Youth Advisory Team (JYAT)! As we continue to grow, we’ve taken time to thoughtfully revise and strengthen these teams to create even more meaningful leadership, connection, and impact for students.
What are JYAT & YAT?
The Youth Advisory Teams are youth-led groups that give students a voice in shaping programs, sharing lived experiences, building leadership skills, and connecting with peers across North Carolina.
- JYAT (Junior Youth Advisory Team): Middle School
- YAT (Youth Advisory Team): High School
Students participate in interactive meetings, leadership roles, projects, and discussions focused on advocacy, confidence, communication, and leadership development.
What’s New This Year?
Our updated structure includes:
- Clearly defined leadership roles
- Opportunities for students to rotate into leadership positions
- Youth-led discussions and activities
- Leadership Labs focused on real-world skills
- A renewed focus on inclusion, voice, and collaboration
Important: Application Required for All Students
As part of this refresh, all students — including current JYAT and YAT members — will need to submit an application. This helps us:
- Learn more about each student’s interests and goals
- Ensure a balanced and engaged group
- Create leadership opportunities that match student strengths
Submitting an application does not mean you are starting over, it simply helps us build the strongest teams possible moving forward.
Meeting Schedule:
Both JYAT and YAT meet twice per month on Thursday evenings. Additional details, including start dates and meeting times, will be shared once applications are reviewed.
How to Apply:
If you or your student are interested in participating, please click on the link below and complete the application.
Applications will be reviewed, and students will receive next steps and onboarding information once selections are finalized. Applications will close on January 9th to allow us to process and plan.
We are incredibly excited about this next chapter for JYAT and YAT and can’t wait to welcome both returning and new members into these revised teams. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
North Carolina's Got Talent
ECAC’s Youth Advisory Team members seek entries for a quarterly issue of YEP – Young Exceptional Perspectives. YEP’s North Carolina’s Got Talent (NCGT) column was created to spotlight on the many talents and abilities of NC Youth and young adults with disabilities ages 5 to 26. The format of submissions can be a poem, artwork, blog, video, essay, article, presentation, an “About me” article, you name it!
ECAC Youth Advisory team members review the submissions and choose which ones to feature in our next newsletter. Selected entries receive a $25 gift card in the mail!
Read the Latest Issues of YEP
ACHIEVE is a statewide, virtual Pre-ETS program designed for students with disabilities, ages 14 to 21. This program is available to those enrolled in an educational program who are eligible or potentially eligible for EIPD services and have a recognized need for Pre-Employment Transition Services. ACHIEVE is accessible to students in various educational settings, including those who are homeschooled, or enrolled in traditional public schools, charter schools, virtual schools, private schools, early college programs, vocational schools, college courses, or training programs. The ACHIEVE Transition Program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need for successful transitions from school to work and into adult life.
Matthew C. Graziadei Achievement Scholarship
The Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC) is proud to offer the Matthew C. Graziadei Achievement Scholarship Award to support North Carolina high school seniors with disabilities. The award amount is $1,500, with the potential for a higher amount and/or runner ups depending on funds. This scholarship is awarded directly to the student and can be used for any postsecondary experience, including further education, employment related expenses, independent living, pursuing hobbies, or purchasing assistive technology and/or other equipment needs.
