Become a Partner in Policymaking
Participants in the program are talented, motivated and dedicated. They want to make a difference in their communities.
PIP participants are people with DD and parents of young children with DD. The program requires a commitment of time and energy. Participants should be motivated. They should be ready to work and to advocate for change. We will recruit for the next PIP class in January 2025. The class starts in September 2025 and ends in April 2026.
Partners in Policymaking Overview
Partners in Policymaking (PIP) was started by the Minnesota DD Council in 1987. Virginia’s first PIP class graduated in 1995. Now, there are more than 700 PIP alumni in Virginia. There are thousands of PIP alumni across the country. Participants learn how to make a difference every day for themselves, their families and their communities.
The PIP program is made up of seven sessions. The sessions begin in September and end in April. Each session lasts two days. Sessions start on Friday afternoon and end on Saturday afternoon. The sessions include advocacy training, skill building, expert speakers and much more.
PIP participants learn about best practices and current trends in many areas, including:
- History of Disability Movements
- Self-Advocacy
- Independent Living
- Inclusive Education
- Supported Employment
- Person-Centered Planning
- Building Inclusive Communities
- Natural Supports
- Assistive Technology
- Communication & Team Building
- Legislative Process and Strategy
► For more information and answers to frequently asked questions go to Partners in Policymaking
Contact
VBPD Training Programs
Virginia Board for People with Disabilities
Ratcliffe Building
1602 Rolling Hills Drive, Suite 100
Richmond, Virginia 23229
804-786-0016 (Voice)
800-846-4464 (TTY/voice)
Training@VBPD.virginia.gov