Partners in PolicyMaking-Sign Up is Now Open
Hey all!
Many of you ask how I jumped into the advocacy world. How did I start?
Well, it’s quite simple. As my autistic son got older I started to see all the things that were wrong with the way people with disabilities were and are treated. It didn’t seem right. It didn’t seem fair.
So, I started openly talking about things like Medicaid, inclusion, and disability awareness.
I want you to know that when my son was diagnosed with autism I remember specifically thinking…I don’t want to carry the torch. I want to blend in. I want to be like everyone else.
And then, I realized, to give my son his best life, I had to start speaking up. Quickly, I learned, I wasn’t doing it just for him. I was doing it for whomever needed my voice.
One of the most powerful decisions I made was the decision to apply for Partners in PolicyMaking. Partners in PolicyMaking is a leadership training program designed for parents of young children with developmental disabilities and adults with disabilities. The class teaches leadership skills, and the process of developing positive partnerships with elected officials and other policymakers who make decisions about the services that you and/or your family use. Partners is accessible, informative and empowering.
Since the Partners program was created in Minnesota in 1987, more than 27,000 self advocates and parents of children with developmental disabilities have graduated nationally and internationally. They comprise a network of trained advocates and leaders, working in partnership with their elected officials to positively change the way people with disabilities live, work, and are educated; and enjoy the benefits of being actively involved in their communities.
Once a month, for a year, I attend a two day class with other parents and self-advocates. We learn about everything ranging from the history of disabilities (your mind would be blown) to housing to Medicaid to inclusion. It’s been fascinating.
Here is the link to apply to be in the class: https://mn.gov/mnddc/partnersinpolicymaking/Class36_materials/Brochure-Class-36.pdf
The deadline to apply is July 9, 2018.
Note: This class is for Minnesota residents. Other states offer Partners in PolicyMaking too. I highly encourage you to do a quick google search and see what your state offers.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter.
Hi Kate, I’m a college student, and as part of an assignment we had to follow a blog about a disability. Autism has always been close to my heart because my step-brother was diagnosed with it as a child as well. I love the way you’re sharing your experiences, knowledge, and journey with the world. Reading your blog has opened my eyes to so much I never knew about, and I’m sure there are many other people that feel the same way. Thank you so much for advocating the way you do and sharing your stories.