Partners in Policymaking
Partners in Policymaking, (PIP) has been part of the work of the NJCDD since 1996. Currently, the program is being provided under contract by The Boggs Center. The goal of this program is to prepare the next generation of disability advocates to work toward meaningful change in our state. Selected participants learn about best practices and important areas for advocacy from nationally-known advocates, self-advocates, experts, and professionals.
This leadership development and advocacy education program for adults with developmental disabilities and family members plays a vital role in helping New Jersey to fulfill the spirit of the Developmental Disabilities and Bill of Rights Act, to “assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets of community life.”
The program, implemented over the course of a year, is comprised of three curricular components. 1) A monthly series; including eight in-person, intensive, weekend educational sessions. 2) Leadership Development integrated into each session, and 3) Homework assignments, including the development of an Advocacy Action Plan that will evolve throughout their participation.