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The application period for the 2025 Partners in Policymaking Class is now open for submission! It will remain open from August 29 to November 15, 2024.
Applications will be accepted until 5:00 PM on November 15, 2024. The application is available in English and Español.
Applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Applying early is encouraged!
The course dates are January – September 2025 (please see the application for a complete list of classes, when it is released) and will be held online via zoom with an in-person event. Participants will be required to attend all virtual courses, attend the in-person event, complete the corresponding online courses, and homework between classes.
The course instructors, Ellen Marquez and Rebecca Ortiz, will be contacting you upon receipt of your application to verify your commitment to this program.
Reasonable accommodations can be made but must be requested by the student or their support person(s).
If you have any questions, please contact our office at 775-684-8619 or email the class instructors, Ellen Marquez at elmarquez@dhhs.nv.gov or Rebecca Ortiz at rortiz@dhhs.nv.gov
What is Partners in Policymaking?
Partners in Policymaking is a program designed for individuals with developmental disabilities and parents/caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities. The program is based on a national model developed by the Minnesota Council on Developmental Disabilities. The goal is to develop productive partnerships between people who need services and those who are in a position to make policies and laws.
Graduates of the Partners program are in a better position to help change these policies and laws through the knowledge they gain in this program. They will have the opportunities to talk with professionals in the developmental disabilities field as well as become confident in their ability to connect with organizations and opportunities within their communities.
The Partners program provides information and the development of skills needed to tackle the battle of current issues, state-of-the-art approaches and best practices, and policymaking and legislative processes at local, state and national levels.
Who should apply?
We are seeking a diverse group of highly motivated and enthusiastic individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or family members of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities to participate. Please note, reasonable accommodations may be provided as needed. If selected, and depending upon individual needs, respite and attendant care may be reimbursed.
What is my role as a “Partner”?
Participants will be expected to:
- Have access to a computer as necessary to complete e-learning courses.
- Commit to 128 total hours of curriculum/work. (This includes online and homework).
- Attend all video learning sessions. (See application for class dates.)
- Complete all e-learning courses that correspond with the class.
- Complete all homework assignments, commit to project to be completed after graduation, and agree to a one year follow up with our staff.
- If selected, and depending upon individual needs, respite and attendant care may be reimbursed.
What topics will be addressed? (This is not a complete list of subjects covered.)
- History and Future of Disabilities
- People First Language and Identity First Language
- Quality and Inclusive Education
- Supported Decision Making and Guardianship
- Person Centered Planning, Self Determination and Informed Choice
- Housing and Transportation
- Government: Local, State and Federal Policy, Legislation and Process
- Educational and Vocational Rights and Services
- Disability and Civil Rights
- Parliamentary Procedure and Serving on Boards
- Community Organizations
- Services Available to Nevadans with Disabilities
- Supportive and Competitive Employment
- Family Support and Supported Living
- Accessibility, Assistive Technology, and Service Animals
- Advocacy and Leadership
What if I have a question?
Contact Ellen Marquez at elmarquez@dhhs.nv.gov or 775-684-8621 or Rebecca Ortiz at rortiz@dhhs.nv.gov or 775-684-8619
