Partners in Policymaking - Alabama
Project Description:
The Alabama Developmental Disabilities Network (DD Network) was formed out of the DD Act and includes: the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD), the University Center for Excellence on Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) located within UAB and the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP).
Our DD Network is collaborating on a program called Partners in Policymaking Alabama (PIPA). The goal of PIPA is to educate people with developmental disabilities and their family members to become active partners with those who make the policies that impact their daily lives and opportunities for:
· an appropriate, inclusive education
· competitive community employment
· independent living
· community inclusion
The curriculum and identifies national and state speakers adhering to Partners' core values and competencies. Participant feedback was assessed using a web-based software. Evaluation results validated that PIPA was a success in training, supporting, and influencing the graduating class in disability issues in Alabama and educating them in how to impact policy through discussion and engagement with lawmakers and to be catalysts for systems change.
Partners believes that the most significant and lasting public policy decisions came from the efforts of those most affected by them. Upon completion of Partners, participants will have developed the knowledge and skills needed to be advocate for opportunities and supports that promote
• self-determination
• independence
• integration in all aspects of community life for themselves and others
Keyword(s):
Mental/Behavioral Health – Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Health Care Transition, Life Course Approach, Mental/Behavioral Health – General , Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults with Special Health Care Needs
Core Function(s):
Training Trainees, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Quality Assurance, Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities, Employment-Related Activities, Housing-Related Activities, Quality of Life, Other - Assistive Technology, Other - Leadership
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Legislators/Policy Makers
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
