Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series
Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Disability Advocacy
Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series is a leadership training program designed for:
parents, guardians, or family members of children with a developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, or other lifelong disability that affects their daily life.
An Evidence-Based Model of Leadership Development
Partners was created more than 35 years ago by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities and has since been offered nationally and internationally.
Partners teaches leadership skills to develop positive partnerships and working relationships with elected officials and other policymakers who make decisions about the services and supports that you and/or your family use. Partners is accessible, informative, and empowering. The graduates of Partners often become members of boards, councils, task forces and advisory committees; some run for elected office; and, some secure employment in disability advocacy or service organizations.
Partners is about systems change—creating, working towards, and achieving a vision of shared values about, for, and with, people with disabilities.
Still Have Questions? Download the Informational Brochure that includes monthly agendas, speakers, and more!
It is based on the belief that the most effective and enduring public policy decisions are made by the people who need and use the services and supports in partnership with elected officials and other policy makers. It is about becoming confident in oneself, competent in the knowledge and information received, and comfortable sharing your life experiences and expertise that will enhance the Partners program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Should Apply to be a part of the Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series?
Parents, legal guardians, and family members—including adult siblings—of people with a disability
Attend all eight weekend sessions. Sessions are Friday from 1:00 to 8:00pm; and, Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Stay overnight at the hotel (paid for by the Leadership Program).
Complete monthly Homework and a Personal Advocacy Project.
Actively participate in learning and conversation with other participants and leaders who share our vision and values.
Build and strengthen a network of people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences.
What am I committing to?
No. There is no financial cost to those who apply and are selected to participate. But, you must commit one weekend a month for eight months, in-person.
The Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series is made possible by a generous grant from the Fairview Trust and by Disability Rights Oregon.
We view the Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series as an investment in our future!
Is there a cost to participate in the Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series?
Who will be facilitating the monthly sessions? What will be on the agenda?
For a list of speakers, learning objectives, and agendas, download the Informational Brochure.
NOTE: Hotel contracts are still being negotiated. Until these are finalized, the date and location is subject to change.
Session 1: Meet and Greet, Disability Movement History, and Lessons from the Past
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, September 20, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 2: Education for All, Inclusion, and Lifelong Learning
Where: Redmond, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, October 18, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 3: Self-Directed and Person Centered Planning to Create a Vision for the Future
Where: Medford, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, November 22, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 4: Community Organizing, Advocacy, and Creating Change in our State Systems
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, January 10, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 5: Supported Living and Housing Independence
Where: Eugene, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, February 7, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 6: Creating an Empowered Life through Assistive Technology and Employment
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, March 7, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 7: Advocacy Strategies for Achieving Legislative and other Policy Change
Where: Salem, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, April 25, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 8: Media Training, Graduation, and Planning to Stay Engaged in Policymaking
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, May 9, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Where and when will the in-person meetings be located?
Yes, please apply.
If you cannot attend one of the days, please note that in your application and contact us to discuss it. You may contact us at partners@droregon.org
What if I cannot make one of the dates? Should I still apply?
You can download a copy of the application questions here.
When you are ready to complete the application form, visit our website to complete the form online.
Where can I download a copy of the application questions?
