Apply now for the 2017-2018 Partners in Policymaking class! Applications are due at noon on Friday, September 1, 2017.

Wisconsin Partners in Policymaking is a six‐session advocacy and systems change training program designed to develop a group of future leaders across the state who are able to work with legislators and communities on policies and initiatives that will support the full participation and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of life.

Partners in Policymaking is designed for adults with developmental disabilities, adult siblings of individuals with developmental disabilities, and parents/primary caregivers of children and youth with developmental disabilities ages birth to 21.

Partners is an initiative of the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD). Nationwide, nearly 15,000 graduates are part of a growing network of community leaders and decision‐ makers serving on policymaking committees, commissions, and boards at local, state, and national levels.

  • Partners are expected to make a commitment to:
    Attend all two-day sessions and complete all homework assignments. Attendance at all regular sessions is required, from Friday at 1 p.m. to Saturday at 4 p.m. Only individuals selected to participate in the program will be able to attend (with supports as needed). Aside from attendant care, additional family members do not attend sessions and should not plan on staying at the hotel with participants.
  • Participate in networking, advocacy activities, interviews, readings (which are offered in alternative formats), and other projects.
  • Develop and implement a project that results in systems change that will improve the lives of people with disabilities and their families.

Download the Application