Through this program, you will gain leadership skills and techniques to help develop positive partnerships with elected officials, school personnel, and other community leaders. You will become a policy influencer, and will interact with policy makers and policy implementers regarding services that you and/or your family may use. You will be given opportunities to engage in interactive learning ex
periences and gain valuable information about current issues, services and strategies, as well as policymaking and legislative processes at local and national levels. As a part of this nine-month program, you will become a member of a DC network of community advocates working together to improve opportunities for Washingtonians with disabilities. DC AP is based on the Partners in Policymaking program, adapted for DC; thousands of self-advocates and family members have graduated from similar programs across the country, have learned how to influence policymakers and make a difference every day for themselves, their families, and their communities. Program Support
DC AP is funded by a grant from the DC Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC), which seeks to strengthen the voice of people with developmental disabilities and their families in DC in support of greater independence, inclusion, empowerment and the pursuit of life as they choose. About IEL
DC AP is a program of the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL). Founded in 1964, IEL builds the capacity of individuals in education and related fields to work together across policies, programs and sectors in support of better results for all children and youth from pre-kindergarten through postsecondary education and work.
