PHOENIX (CBS5) –  Getting into the energy bar business is a tough mountain to climb. A Valley entrepreneur like no other is overcoming odds to not only make his own energy bars, but to market them as well. John Dalen, 25, is a young man with autism who’s not letting that stop him from living his dream.

“I am having fun,” John Dalen says with the assistance of his mother, Jane.

John’s form of autism leaves him unable to communicate through speech. Instead he “talks” with his mother and others with the assistance of a cut out keyboard.  “It’s facilitated communication,” says Jane Dalen, “and it took many years to get to this point. Yes.”  Read more.

LAKEPORT, Calif. – Life is made up of many little stitched-together miracles, moments of capability that some may take for granted, but which others – who face personal challenges – dream of having.

For many teens, dribbling a basketball down a court and participating in a game would be one of those taken-for-granted moments, but for one local youngster, getting the chance to go out on the court and make a basket was, well, a pretty big deal. Read more.

The Annual Youth Leadership Forum for students with  disabilities offers a one week experience of a lifetime. Develop leadership skills and learn how to reach academic, career and independent living goals. Live on the California State University, Sacramento(CSUS) campus. Read more here to apply for this great opportunity. 2015 YLF Application Instructions – Student2015 YLF Application