Building tomorrow’s leaders. Forming productive partnerships. Creating inclusive communities.
Partners in Policymaking is a national leadership and disability advocacy training program for individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members. Only self-advocates and family members of individuals with developmental disabilities should apply.
Participants accepted into the Arkansas Partners in Policymaking leadership and advocacy training program will attend eight monthly two-day training sessions in Little Rock, AR. The Sessions run from September to May with the month of December off for the holidays. National and state experts on various disability-related topics will present on various issues concerning the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.
What does it cost?
All session expenses are paid by the program. Covered expenses include lodging, food and materials. Participants will be provided a stipend for assistance with individual accommodations/support such as personal care assistants, respite/childcare, and transportation expenses.
Is attendance required at all sessions?
Partners in Policymaking participants spend the eight sessions building a “toolbox” for communicating effectively with legislators, policymakers, and administrators. All presentations, assignments, and group activities are designed to give participants practice and experience working to improve policy, service systems, and opportunities for full participation in community life. Because of this toolbox approach it is vital that participants be prepared to attend every session.
How are individuals selected to participate in the program?
Individuals are selected as Partners in Policymaking (PIP) participants in a statewide application process. Following the screening and selection process, all applicants will be notified of their status by letter. We encourage applicants who are not selected to re-apply, as we may receive more worthy applications than we have spaces to fill.
What will selected Partners learn about?
History of Disability Movements, Self-Advocacy, Independent Living, Inclusive Education, Supported Employment, Personal Futures Planning, Building Inclusive Communities, Natural Supports, Assistive Technology, Communication & Team Building, and Legislative Process and Strategies
What will selected Partners do during the program?
Partners will attend all information sessions by local and national experts in the disability field, complete and report on homework assignments, tour the state capitol and meet with legislators, and network with other individuals with disabilities and family members.