People with disabilities and the parents of young children with developmental disabilities may be able to participate in a pioneering leadership program that gives direction on how to influence public policy and be an effective advocate.  Partners in Policymaking, created by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, will begin its 22nd year in September, but those interested in taking part must submit their applications by July 24.  Partners in Policymaking has been adopted in almost every state and in many foreign countries.

“Participation in this eight-session program has proved to be a major turning point for many graduates, who have gained advocacy skills and gone on to leadership roles in promoting greater opportunities for people with disabilities,” said Colleen Wieck, executive director of the Governor’s Council.

The Partners program covers topics such as the history of the disability and self-advocacy movements, inclusive education, supported living and influencing the county, state and federal legislative process.  The two-day meetings during the program year are all held on weekends, making it easier for people to participate.

Participants in Partners include adults with disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities.  All of the eight sessions will be held at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott in Bloomington.  There is no cost to individuals selected for the program, since it is covered by a federal grant to the Minnesota Governor’s Council.  Child care, respite allowance and overnight accommodations are also provided for those who have to travel some distance to attend, and mileage allowances and meals are also provided.

The class is limited to 40 participants, selected by a panel of Partners graduates and representatives of the Governor’s Council.  The first session is scheduled for Sept. 11-12.  Presenters include nationally recognized leaders in the disabilities area, as well as local experts.

“This program is based on the belief that systems change is best brought about through the efforts of those most affected by them, and we seek to arm them with tools needed to be successful in the public policy arena,” said Wieck.

Those selected to participate in the program are expected to attend all meetings and to complete homework assignments between the sessions.

For further information or to receive an application form, interested individuals can go to the Web page, www.mngts.org/partnersinpolicymaking or contact Carol Schoeneck at Government Training Services, 1-800-0569-6878, Ext. 205, or at 651-222-7409, Ext. 205. She may be e-mailed at cschoe neck@mngts.org.

The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities introduced the Partners in Policymaking program in 1987.  Since then, more than 700 Minnesotans have completed the program and over 15,000 have participated in Partners programs offered worldwide.