Thank you for your interest in the BACKBONES Youth Program! We’re excited to learn more about you and your unique strengths, experiences, and goals.
This program is designed to support youth (ages 15-18) with spinal cord injury through connection, skill-building, leadership development, and honest conversations about navigating life with confidence and independence.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please feel free to contact your Program Coordinator, Amanda Russel at arussel@backbonesonline.org
Deadline to Apply: April 10, 2026
2026 Program Schedule & Timeline
Each session will be a 2-hour virtual meeting. These mandatory meetings will be via Zoom on Wednesdays at 11am PST / 1pm CST / 2pm EST
(Please adjust for your local time zone.)
Topics Include:
Week 1: Orientation
Week 2: Disability Identity
Week 3: College & Independent Living
Week 4: Driving & Transportation
Week 5: Dating & Relationships
Week 6: Recreation & Travel
Week 7: Self Advocacy
Week 8: Managing My Health - Body and Mind
Week 9: Employment Pathways
Week 10: Wrap Up
We look forward to learning more about you and potentially welcoming you into this year’s Youth Program!
