LIPA Leaders in Policy Advocacy

A new year brings a new Leaders in Policy Advocacy (LIPA) cohort!

LIPA is a comprehensive 6-month leadership development program designed for adults with developmental disabilities and parents of children with developmental disabilities. The program focuses on cultivating empowered leaders within the disability rights movement

Participants commit to attending six highly interactive weekend sessions, where they’ll engage with subject matter experts on topics such as disability history, inclusive education, assistive technology, self-determination, person-centered planning, access to housing, employment, benefits, and systems change.

Overnight lodging and meals for the in-person training weekends are provided, as well as stipend gift cards to help reimburse participants for their travel, respite, and childcare expenses.

This year, they are continuing their hybrid training format with four in-person training weekends and two online sessions. All in-person sessions will take place in Novi, except for Weekend 5 in Lansing. Southeast Michigan parents and self-advocates—this is your time to shine!

The application process begins on February 1, 2025, and will remain open throughout the month of February. Spots are limited to 20 participants, so be sure to check your calendar to ensure you can attend the training dates below before applying. Participants who complete the 2025 LIPA program will join a growing network of past graduates, all of whom are working to create a more inclusive world for individuals with developmental disabilities through advocacy, organizing, and systems change efforts.

“I absolutely loved this program, and I am so grateful for everything. I feel as though this has changed my life and my family’s life for the better.” – 2024 LIPA alumni

For additional questions, contact LIPA Coordinator Karah Ley at karah@michiganallianceforfamilies.org.

Applications accepted Feb 1-28, 2025 here: http://tinyurl.com/2025LIPA