Introducing the Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program
The Inclusa Foundation is excited to highlight one of our first strategic funding recipients, the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD) and their Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program. This program will develop new disability policy leaders in Wisconsin, giving them the tools and connections needed to drive systems change, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
About BPDD
The Wisconsin BPDD is a key state agency composed of people with I/DD, their family members, providers, and state agency representatives. Required under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act), BPDD advises the Governor and Legislature on public policy issues affecting people with I/DD. Through advocacy, capacity building, and strategic planning, BPDD works to promote self-determination, independence, and inclusion for people with disabilities across Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program
This new program proposed by BPDD has two options for participation, each working to empower people with lived experience to inform and shape disability policy at the state level and lead to careers in disability advocacy.
Option One: Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Fellowship
The Fellowship offers a one-year, full-time paid experience within key Wisconsin policy divisions of state government offices or state agencies. Fellows will have firsthand experience in the legislative process, program administration, and regulation at the state level. The program will focus on addressing important state-specific issues and legislative proposals that affect people with disabilities in Wisconsin. The goal for the Fellowship is to foster a career in disability policy in Wisconsin.
Option Two: Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Internship
The Internship program will provide a short-term (4 months part-time) paid experience within state agencies and Wisconsin-based advocacy organizations. Participants will have the opportunity to create career prospects, develop leadership skills, and make meaningful connections within state government and the Wisconsin disability community.
Key Features of Both Options
Comprehensive orientation
Public policy training
Networking opportunities
Coaching and mentoring
Collaborative events tailored for Wisconsin participants
Career Development
Empowering the Next Generation of Disability Leaders
By investing in new talent, mentoring, and coaching, the Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program aims to expand the number of policymakers who prioritize disability issues. The program will prepare new disability leaders in the state. By sharing knowledge and building relationships, the program will create a stronger and more effective policymaking system that supports the needs of people with disabilities in Wisconsin.
We invite people with lived experience and a passion for advocacy, long-term care, employment, education, and community organizing to watch for more details regarding the Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program. Together, we can create a more inclusive and fair future for all Wisconsinites!
For more information, reach out to Sally Flaschberger at Sally.flaschberger@wisconsin.gov.
The application to apply will be available by the end of June. Let's work together to build a brighter tomorrow for people with disabilities in Wisconsin.
Note: Application deadlines and program details will be available on the BPDD website by the end of June at the following link: https://wi-bpdd.org.