Each class of DC Advocacy Partners meets once a month, covering the nine topics listed below. Each session features key national and local speakers, interactive exercises, video clips, resources, and homework assignments. Click on the title of each session to learn more.
Competencies In this first session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Increase their knowledge of the history of people with disabilities; Learn about the disability rights movement in America and in Washington DC; Be able to describe the history of attitudes toward people with disabilities, laws, programs, and services for people with disabilities; Be able … Read more
Competencies In this second session of DC Advocacy Partners, partners will: Increase their knowledge about the service coordination system and the services that are available in DC for individuals with disabilities and their families Gain first-hand experience attending a city-wide summit, and participate in small group discussions with other attendees and presenters Participate and interact … Read more
Competencies In this third session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Be knowledgeable about early childhood and special education. Understand parent and children’s rights and responsibilities under special education laws. Be able to describe the reasons for inclusion and quality education. Be able to outline specific strategies to achieve inclusion and quality education. Be able … Read more
Competencies In this fourth session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Be able to describe importance of employment both for individuals themselves and for the community. Understand the vision and mission of Employment First Policy. Be able to describe types of employment: competitive, supported, customized, sheltered, enclaves, entrepreneurial, volunteer, internships, apprenticeships, and virtual. Be able … Read more
Competencies In this fifth session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Know what it means to lead a healthy lifestyle. Improve their understanding of Medicaid and Medicare policies and advocacy. Learn about the Olmstead Community Integration Plan and DC’s One Community for All. Learn about healthcare and wellness systems, services, networks, and advocacy in DC, including services … Read more
Competencies In this sixth session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Be able to identify critical city and federal issues and the process by which they can personally address their concerns. Be able to describe how a bill becomes a law at the city and federal level. Be able to identify the best ways to … Read more
Competencies In this seventh session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Gain an understanding of accessible and affordable housing options for people with disabilities, such as housing vouchers, Section 8, and anti-discrimination issues. Understand the role and mission of Independent Living Centers. Learn the importance of consumer directed personal assistance services. Understand the basics of … Read more
Competencies In this eighth session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Identify strategies for beginning and sustaining grassroots level organizing around specific issues. Understand the role of and how to use the media to effectively promote their issues. Identify mechanisms to promote cooperation and coalition building that will result in combined strength to influence public … Read more
Competencies In this ninth session of DC Advocacy Partners, participants will: Understand strategies for effective involvement on boards, committees, and commissions. Learn about processes for getting appointed to positions and boards and commissions in the District of Columbia and in the Federal Government. Understand and be able to use Robert’s Rules of Order. Report advocacy … Read more
