The following are a few stories (not all) of the 2008 LEAP Awardees.

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Nicole Lynn Martin is a 22 year old who will be attending Shepards College in Wisconsin. To help her in this transition to college, TransCen awarded Nicole a computer, scanner, and various software programs. The computer system assists Nicole with reading, writing, and using email. The system, which uses pictorial and auditory instructions, is invaluable in helping Nicole complete tasks at home and on the job.

Darchelle Watson

Darchelle Watson is a 14 year old who needed a uniform in order to attend school. Youth Villages knew that Darchelle's family had some significant challenges in meeting their basic needs and that these challenges could potentially stand in the way of Darchelle's path to success in her future. Since Darchelle did not have the required uniform to attend school, Youth Villages awarded her the school uniform

James Jones

James Jones is a 21 year old who recently moved into a supervised apartment with a roommate and has been learning to live more independently. With the help of Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities, which awarded James a personal digital assistant device and new business clothes, he is better able to manage his schedule and daily routines, as well as present himself professionally in job interviews and work.

Adam Toobin

Adam Toobin is a 22 year old who needed a computer for work. Through his association with the Arc of Northern Virginia, he was awarded a computer and was able to work in Congressman Moran's office, and then transition smoothly to Senator Obama's presidential campaign because he had the work tools to do the job.

John Mascaro is a 24 year old who had recently completed a "voice over" training program in New York and was working toward a career in vocal production. Abilities Network awarded John a Mac computer and sound equipment needed to do voice over work. With this equipment, John was able to set up a home studio in which he could work.

Lawrence Collins is a 22 year old who is a first time student at Prince George's Community College. Abilities Network wanted to help Lawrence as he transitioned to college and awarded him a Dell laptop and voice recognition software. Lawrence will now be able to use his computer to complete assignments for his online courses.