Yvorra Leadership Development (YLD) is a non-profit private foundation designed to promote leadership development among members of the fire, hazardous materials, and emergency medical services communities. The Foundation was created to continue the efforts of James G. Yvorra who dedicated his life's work to the betterment of fire and emergency medical services.

Jim Yvorra was a Deputy Chief with the Berwyn Heights (Maryland) Volunteer Fire Department and a nationally recognized author and editor in the fields of fire, hazardous materials, and emergency medical services. He died in the line of duty when he was accidentally struck by a car while investigating an accident scene on Interstate 95 near Washington, D.C., in January 1988.

Prior to his untimely death, he laid the groundwork for several long term projects designed to promote a greater emphasis on leadership development. His articles, personal notes, observations about people, and discussions with colleagues have established the principles upon which YLD has evolved.

Since 1995, YLD has been honored to provide special scholarship assistance for leadership development in the emergency services field. This award is made possible by a generous endowment from the estate of the late Donald E. Sellers. In 2007, YLD created the John M. Eversole endowment with the generous support of family, friends, hazardous materials professional associations, and corporations from across the United States. The Eversole Endowment supports awards and scholarships specifically for members of the hazardous materials response community.