Bender Leadership Academy

It is never too late to start loving yourself. Don't miss this live episode of Disability Matters with Joyce Bender, featuring author and country music star, Ty Herndon.

Thank you to our amazing education partners!

ACLD Tillotson School
Beaver County Career and Technology Center
Beaver Area High School
Bethel Park High School
Derry Area High School
Esperanza Cyber Charter School
Gateway High School (Gateway School District)
Insight PA Cyber Charter School
Moon Area High School (Moon Area School District)
Norwin High School
Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School (PALCS)
Plum Borough High School
Pittsburgh Public Schools City Connections
Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy
Quaker Valley High School
Riverside High School
Wesley Bridge School
West Allegheny High School
Western Beaver County Junior-Senior High School

Image: Thank you for your support

✨ **Life throws some serious curveballs, doesn't it?** It's totally okay to feel frustrated, sad, or even angry when things go wrong, or when a challenge feels extra tough.

But here's a superpower we *all* have: finding the bright spots, even on the cloudiest days. 🌈

It's not about ignoring the tough stuff or pretending everything is perfect. Nope! It's about actively looking for the small wins, the unexpected lessons, or the new opportunities that can pop up when things don't go as planned.

**Why bother?** Because practicing this skill builds your resilience 💪, helps you see solutions💡, and makes those tough moments a little less overwhelming.

**Next time something throws you off course, try asking yourself:**

* "What's one tiny good thing about this situation?"
* "What could I learn from this?"
* "Is there an unexpected door this situation might be opening?"

It's a practice, not perfection. Some days it's easier than others, and that's okay! You're already incredibly strong and resilient just by being you. ❤️

We want to hear from YOU! 👇
**What's one positive you've found in a tough situation lately? Share your wisdom below!**



Image: The following phrase is revealed within a jumble of letters: "Look for the positive in any negative situation." Bender Leadership Academy: Empowering Talent Together logo

Summer programming starts NOW! We have our Toolkits packed and are on our way to Plum Borough School District for our first class.

Image: Bender Leadership Academy Lead On Toolkit. Excited | Pumped | Eager | Stoked | Keen | Ready Bender Leadership Academy logo.

Bullying thrives in shadows, feeding on isolation and fear. But there's a powerful light that can cut through the darkness: kindness. 👐💛

An act of kindness isn't passive; it's a shield for the targeted, a bridge for the excluded, and a powerful statement against cruelty. 🛡️🌉💬When you choose empathy, when you reach out with compassion, or when you simply include someone, you're not just being "nice"—you're actively building a safer, more connected world. 🌎

Your kindness shows courage. It reminds everyone that respect and understanding are stronger than meanness. Let's wield this power together. Let's make every kind word and thoughtful gesture a blow against negativity. 💪

Choose kindness. Be the light.

Image: Stop Bullying! Young person gets bullying messages on phone.

Thank you to all our wonderful hosts who have helped us shape the future of disability and employment leaders this year!

Image: Thank you! Calgon Carbon, Highmark, Dollar Bank, Pheple FCU, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

We are excited to announce that Jonathan Lovitz, Sr. Vice President, Campaigns and Communications, Human Rights Campaign, is Bender Leadership Academy's special guest and featured speaker for this year's Allies in Pride Breakfast on June 24th!

Image: 24th JUNE Allies in Pride Breakfast. The Bender Leadership Academy logo. Pride in Every Story. Every voice belongs.

Are you interested in being a future leader in the disability community? This great episode of Disability Matters provides insight into how one person's journey led to an opportunity to change the way organizations do business and invest in accessibility.

How do you help others sparkle and shine in their own unique ways? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Dive into the comments and share your ideas, tips, or experiences. Let’s inspire each other! ✨👇


Image: "A star wants to see himself rise to the top. A leader wants to see those around him rise to the top." - Simon Sinek

🌟 Believe in You! 🌟

In a world that often tries to define our worth, remember this: YOU are the architect of your own potential. 💪✨

We all face critics and naysayers, but don’t let their doubts overshadow your dreams and capabilities. Your journey is uniquely yours, and every step you take is a testament to your strength and resilience. 🌈

Trust in your abilities, embrace your passions, and keep pushing forward! When you believe in yourself, you empower your own success. So keep shining, keep striving, and never let anyone dim your light! 💖🌟



Image: Be proud of who you are, and not ashamed of how someone else sees you