The Young Leadership Committee (YLC) is a group that empowers young professionals and college students to carry out JDRF’s mission by dedicating their efforts to raising awareness and funds for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.

This committee, under the leadership of co-presidents Billy Reardon and Maggie Berkeley, has grown exponentially over the past two years and continues to make an impact offering JDRF resources to young adults. YLC members are from a variety of age groups, backgrounds, and connections to T1D; they are brought together by the common bond of T1D. That common bond has developed into a community of individuals who support each other and foster relationships through shared experiences, as they work toward achieving a world without T1D.

The YLC bond is strengthened through regular social gatherings, volunteer efforts, and fundraising events (such as Sip for a Cure, team 5k runs, and JDRF One Walk Boston). Through these social events the YLC has built a community that appeals to all of its members. Whether they are an individual who can’t remember a meal without T1D because they grew up with the disease, or they are someone who can remember eating a slice of pizza pre-diagnosis without a care in the world, each one is able to find support and opportunity to get involved. In the end, it is a community where when someone says “I’m low,” every person has compassion and understanding for them and what they are going through.

Additionally the YLC provides an opportunity for young adults to make a difference and connect with their peers. For those who grew up attending JDRF events, it is an opportunity to continue their involvement through their 20s and 30s. For those diagnosed as adults, an occurrence that is becoming all too common, YLC is a beacon. The group offers support, stands as a resource (how do you manage your blood sugar heading into a big work meeting?), and serves as a reminder for members to remain hopeful for a cure, as there are people working to cure T1D each and every day.

YLCs are becoming an essential part of JDRF chapters with cities across the country engaging their young professionals in the fight to turn Type One into Type None. The YLC New England Chapter is excited to welcome new members and expand its reach to those living with and impacted by T1D in the Greater Boston Area.

Interested in the New England YLC? Email us at ylcbaystate@gmail.com or find us on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook @JDRFneYLC. Not in the Boston area? Contact your local JDRF chapter to find the nearest YLC community!