Are you or someone you know between the ages of 15 and 22, with a developmental disability, or is an advocate for another person with a developmental disability? If so, then consider joining the 2013 Delaware Junior Partners in Policymaking summer program!
What is Junior Partners in Policymaking?
This exciting week-long summer program is designed to meet the changing needs of young adults with, and without disabilities, as they move towards independence. Participants in the program are a diverse group of young adults between the ages of 15 and 22, all sharing a common interest in the rights of people with disabilities.
Throughout this week-long program, participants attend a wide variety of classes on a vast array of topics, including:
- The importance of self-determination
- How to advocate for yourself
- Your rights in and out of school
- Laws that affect the treatment of individuals with disabilities
- How you can impact public policy
- How to plan for the future that you want
The week concludes with a trip to Legislative Hall, where participants are given the opportunity to put into practice the wealth of information and skills they have learned throughout the week. Many state legislators will be available for participants to meet with and discuss issues important to them. This is a great time for participants to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
Participant who complete the program will be awarded a Certificate of Participation, great for resumes and college applications.
Junior Partners in Policymaking Program Details:
The Junior Partners in Policymaking was created by the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council and is presented by the Center for Disabilities Studies at the University of Delaware. The week-long session will be held as follows:
When: Sunday June 16 to Friday, June 21st, 2013
Where: University of Delaware Newark campus
Participants will live on campus for the duration of the program. All classes are held on the University of Delaware campus, and the program ends with the trip to Legislative Hall, in Dover.
Young adults interested in attending the program shall meet the following criteria:
- Be between the ages of 15 and 22
- Want to know more about disability advocacy
- Live in Delaware now and at the time of the program
The Application Process:
Prospective participants need to complete the 2013 Junior Partners in Policymaking Application form and mail it to:
The Center for Disabilities Studies
Attention: Jr. Partners
461 Wyoming Road
Newark DE 19716
All applications must have an actual signature on the application form. Electronic submissions cannot be accepted.
If you have any questions about the program or the application process, please call Grace Wesley at 302-722-7066 or email her at jrpartners@udel.edu.
NOTE: Applications must be submitted by February 14th.
Does the Junior Partners in Policymaking sound like something you or someone you know would like to participate in? Download the following information for additional details and dates for upcoming informational meetings.
2013 Junior Partners in Policymaking Course Description
2013 Junior Partners in Policymaking Brochure
2013 Junior Partners in Policymaking Informational Meetings
Don’t forget – applications are due February 14th!
Have you, or someone you know, participated in previous Junior Partners in Policymaking programs? Share your experiences with us!
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All images from The Center for Disabilities. University of Delaware.