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Partners in Policymaking
What is Partners in Policymaking?
Partners in Policymaking is a leadership and advocacy training program that teaches self-advocates and parents to be community leaders and how to obtain best available services for themselves and others.
Based on a national model, the overall goal of Partners is to develop productive partnerships between people who need and use services and those in a position to make policy and law.
Partners participants are able to accomplish this by having opportunities to meet and talk to national leaders in the field of developmental disabilities.
Partners will hear presentations about current issues and state-of-the art practices, as well as policymaking and legislative processes at local, state, and national levels.
Who should Apply?
Adults who have a developmental disability
Parents of young children with developmental disabilities
Men and women representing different ages, experiences, ethnic groups, and geographical regions of Florida
Highly motivated and enthusiastic people who want to work for systems change and improve lives for Floridians with developmental disabilities
What is my role as a Partner?
Make a commitment to attend six two-day monthly sessions tentatively beginning in June
Training sessions are held in the Central Florida area and typically begin on Friday afternoons at 12:30 p.m. and conclude on Saturday afternoons at 4:00 p.m.
Attendance at all six monthly sessions are mandatory
Complete all homework assignments (approximately 2 to 4 hours) between training sessions usually consisting of reading, evaluating resources on the internet, and practical exercises.
Implement skills learned during your training and continued advocacy work on behalf of people with developmental disabilities
Completion of a major project benefiting people with developmental disabilities in your community
Only individuals selected to participate in the Partners program may attend and stay at the hotel during training sessions.
What does Partners Cost?
There is NO financial cost to participate in Partners
Shared lodging and meals will be provided
Travel expenses are reimbursed
Attendant care and respite services are available and will be reimbursed if needed at a pre-arranged rate
Other needed accommodations will be provided at no cost such as interpreter, translator, alternative materials
Partners WILL cost you time and effort but Partners graduates agree that the commitment you make as a participant is well worth the life changes, knowledge you will gain, and relationships you will build while participating in the program.
What you will get in return!
Information, skills, and confidence to bring about change for those with developmental disabilities across a life-span
The opportunity to meet and unite with others who have similar concerns and create a powerful voice on important issues
Hands-on experiences in state law making process
Instruction and access to national experts in their field
Topics to include:
- History of the Disability Movement
- Inclusive Education and Transition
- Assistive Technology
- Supported/Competitive Employment
- Supported/Independent Living
- Person Centered Planning
- Community Support
- State and Federal Legislative Process
- Leadership Development
- Organizing for Systems Change
Top 10 Values of Partners in Policymaking
Value #1: People with disabilities are people first . They are not “the handicapped” or “the disabled.” Using People First Language is a must – no labels!
Value #2: People with disabilities need real friendships, not just relationships with paid staff.
Value #3: People with disabilities are entitled to the full meaning of The First Amendment right to free speech. The ability to communicate, in whatever form, must be available to every person with a disability.
Value #4: People with disabilities must be able to enjoy full mobility and accessibility that allows active participation in community life.
Value #5: People with disabilities must be assured continuity in their lives through families and neighborhood connections.
Value #6: People with disabilities must be treated with respect and dignity.
Value #7: People with disabilities need to be in positions to negotiate to have their wants and needs met.
Value #8: People with disabilities must be able to exercise choice in all areas of their lives.
Value #9: People with disabilities must be able to live in the homes of their choices with the supports they need.
Value #10: People with disabilities must be able to enjoy the benefits of true productivity through employment and/or contributions as members of their communities.
Conference Calls Minutes
Advisory Minutes - February 6, 2008 [DOC]
Advisory Minutes - October 29, 2007 [DOC]
Advisory Minutes - August 7, 2007 [DOC]
Advisory Minutes - June 27, 2007 [DOC]
Application for Partners in Policymaking Program
We are no longer accepting applications for the 2008 class. Please continue to check this site for information about the 2009 class.
Application for Partners in Policymaking Program [PDF]
Partners in Policymaking Program Brochure [PDF]
For additional information and contact:
Cindy Nipper Tan, Education and Training Coordinator
124 Marriott Drive, Suite 203
Tallahassee, FL 32301-2981
(800) 580-7801 or (888) 488-8633 TDD
(850) 922-6702 Fax
CindyN@fddc.org