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Texas needs more disability advocates, and we think you may be part of the next wave of advocacy in our state! Disability advocates are crucial in raising awareness, combating discrimination, and promoting systemic change. By expanding the network of disability advocates in Texas, we can move toward a more inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and contribute.
We are proud to offer a variety of opportunities to expand your knowledge of disability issues and advance your leadership and advocacy skills. Whether you are ready to take a deep dive into advocacy through the Texas Partners in Policymaking program or want to pick up skills in a few weeks through our Training Sprints, we are ready to help build a new generation of disability leaders in Texas.
Texas Partners in Policymaking Applications Close Soon
Texas Partners in Policymaking (Partners) is an advanced leadership training program for self-advocates and family members of people with developmental disabilities (DD). This program covers a wide range of topics that impact the lives of people with DD and offers the opportunity to build skills related to public policy, communication, and leadership. Participants learn from other advocates across the state and collaborate on disability-related projects. They also gain the skills necessary to partner with policymakers and advocate for important disability issues at the local, state, and federal levels. This program offers participants the structure, support, and connections needed to make a difference.
Partners consists of two-day training sessions held monthly from September to March. Sessions are generally held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Sessions are held online via Zoom. In addition to the weekend sessions, participants attend a monthly online meeting held on a weekday evening.
Applications for the next Partners class close soon! Apply online by March 22.
Upcoming Training Sprints
Training Sprints are perfect for self-advocates, family members, and community allies who want to advance their advocacy skills in a fast-paced environment.
Participants will practice their advocacy skills through interactive training sessions. Each sprint will also provide participants with a resource they can use to support their efforts after completing the training. Register today to take the next step in your advocacy journey.
Spring 2024: April 9 – 30, 2024
Social Media Advocacy: Let’s Go Viral
Start or enhance your disability advocacy social media account through lessons on audience engagement, content creation, and accessibility. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice their new skills and create content for a disability organization.
Optional Live Kickoff: Tuesday, April 9, Noon to 1 p.m. CT
Optional Office Hours: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.- Noon and 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. CT
Mandatory Final Showcase: Tuesday, April 30
Register for the Social Media Advocacy sprint.
Summer 2024: July 2024
Inclusive Student Organizations: Trail BlaZers On-Campus
Create the structure and strategy you need to launch an inclusive organization for students of all abilities on your high school or college campus. Participants will be supported in drafting by-laws, identifying an advisor, defining leadership roles, and scheduling a year’s worth of meetings and group activities.
Live sessions: Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. CT
Register for the Inclusive Student Organizations sprint.
Fall 2024: Oct – Nov 2024
89th Legislative Session Lift-Off: Practice Makes Policy Change
Educate yourself on the legislative process and resources available before the 89th Texas Legislative Session starts. You will leave this sprint better able to navigate the legislative process, track legislation, and advocate at the Capitol. You will engage with the TCDD Public Policy team to learn key information to be a well-informed and civically engaged disability advocate.
Live sessions: TBD
