Purpose
New Jersey Partners in Policymaking is a leadership development and advocacy education program for adults with developmental disabilities (over age 21) and family members of children and transition age youth available through collaboration between The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, and Disability Rights New Jersey. The goal of this program is to prepare the next generation of disability advocates to work toward meaningful change in our state. The Boggs Center is committed to building a diverse group of participants that is reflective of the needs, geography, and cultural and ethnic backgrounds of New Jersey.
Through participation in in-person and virtual educational leadership development sessions and completion of online assignments, selected participants learn about best practices and important areas for advocacy from nationally-known experts. Upon completion of the program, participants will have developed the knowledge and skills needed to:
- Advocate for opportunities and supports that promote self-determination, independence, and inclusion in all aspects of community life
- Be members of advisory boards and committees
- Work alongside policymakers and state agencies