Advocacy Training
From the April 2001 Disabilities newsletter.


Interested in affecting public policy and funding for services for people with disabilities? You may want to check out the Partners in Policymaking program in your area. From its humble beginnings in 1987, Partners in Policymaking has expanded from its original base in Minnesota to 46 states and several countries abroad.

Launched by the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, the goal remains the same 13 years and 8700 total graduates later: "to teach best practices in disability issues and to teach people to be effective in influencing public policy," says Colleen Wieck, executive director of the Council.

To this end, the program consists of a series of 8 weekend-long seminars over a 1-year period, each focusing on a different topic, such as inclusive education, assistive technology, or supported living. Program participants also have assignments they must complete in between seminars, such as visiting sites that offer disability services.

The seminars, explains Dr. Wieck, consist of both lecture and practice. Instructors are drawn from experts in the field of disability research. Participants learn about issues affecting people with disabilities and then participate in simulations designed to prepare them to meet with public officials and legislators.

According to Dr. Wieck, participants include adults with developmental disabilities and parents of children and adults with disabilities. Although it is a diverse group, Dr. Wieck notes that, "It really works. The adults with disabilities are the best teachers. It really is wonderful."

A continuing source of pride for Dr. Wieck is that the program has attracted interest nationwide and in several foreign countries as well, including the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Dr. Wieck notes that the Council provides a manual to any state or country wishing to start a Partners program, which is actually trademarked to ensure uniformity and high standards.

Dr. Wieck also notes that many graduates of the program, which is federally funded and free to participants, are now actively involved in disability rights advocacy. "I get a dozen phone calls a day from graduates about issues they are working on. Some of our graduates also run for office. Most people will say 'it changed my life'."

Check out the Brookes store for resources on inclusion, assistive technology, and community services and supports.