Partners in Policymaking

Partners become more effective advocates and prepare to assume leadership roles in policymaking.

Partners in Policymaking is an innovative national model of leadership training for people with developmental disabilities, parents and family members. It is designed to provide state-of-the-art knowledge about issues and policies related to disability, and to develop participant competencies to become more effective in influencing policy development at all levels. The overall intent is to achieve a productive partnership between people with developmental disabilities, parents, and family members, and those in position to make policy.

Partners attend eight, two-day training sessions during the year with each session beginning Friday afternoon and concluding late Saturday afternoon. Each session is devoted to specific topics with nationally known presenters. Partners are expected to complete assignments between sessions and to commit to one major assignment, such as serving an internship, organizing a letter writing campaign, or organizing special receptions or town meetings for public officials.

Session topics include:

• History of the Developmental Disability, Independent Living, Parent and Self-Advocate movements
• Inclusive Education
• Employment
• Creating Community
• Self-Determination and Person Centered Planning
• State Legislative issues
• National Disability issues
• Community organizing, Media and Advocacy

Forty participants from throughout New York State are selected to attend the training program. Selection is based on the quality and content of the applications. The program is free of charge and all accommodations, meals and training materials will be provided at no cost. Limited reimbursement is available to cover transportation and childcare costs.

The Partners in Policymaking program provides an excellent opportunity for participants to improve skills to become more effective advocates and to prepare to assume leadership roles in policymaking.