news-record.com

A program that teaches people how to advocate for those with developmental disabilities is seeking applicants for its 2009 instructional sessions.

The program, called Partners in Policymaking, is aimed both at adults with disabilities and parents of young children with disabilities.

Attempts to reach Partners in Policymaking spokeswoman Deborah Whitfield were unsuccessful.

Participants will learn about such subjects as federal policy, the federal and state legislative processes, community organization and local advocacy. The program aims to help people become more effective advocates for those with developmental disabilities.

After the program ends, participants must take on one major project, such as interning with a legislator, organizing town meetings or coordinating a support group.

Participants meet for eight weekends — noon Saturday to 3 p.m. Sunday — between February and September in Raleigh. Fees and expenses, including transportation and hotel rooms, are free to participants.

The program, based on a program begun in 1987 in Minnesota, is in place in most states and several foreign countries. North Carolina has had its program since 1993. It is paid for by the N.C. Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Contact Lex Alexander at 373-7088 or lex.alexander@news-record.com