Partners Leadership Series
Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Disability Advocacy
Oregon Partners Leadership Series is a leadership training program designed for:
parents, guardians, or family members of children with a developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, or other lifelong disability that affects their daily life.
An Evidence-Based Model of Leadership Development
Partners was created more than 35 years ago by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities and has since been offered nationally and internationally.
Partners teaches leadership skills to develop positive partnerships and working relationships with elected officials and other policymakers who make decisions about the services and supports that you and/or your family use. Partners is accessible, informative, and empowering. The graduates of Partners often become members of boards, councils, task forces and advisory committees; some run for elected office; and, some secure employment in disability advocacy or service organizations.
Partners is about systems change—creating, working towards, and achieving a vision of shared values about, for, and with, people with disabilities.
Still Have Questions?
Download the Informational Brochure that includes monthly agendas, speakers, and more! >
It is based on the belief that the most effective and enduring public policy decisions are made by the people who need and use the services and supports in partnership with elected officials and other policy makers. It is about becoming confident in oneself, competent in the knowledge and information received, and comfortable sharing your life experiences and expertise that will enhance the Partners program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Should Apply to be a part of the Oregon Partners Leadership Series?
Self-advocates with disabilities (21-years-old and older)
Parents, legal guardians, and family members—including adult siblings—of people with a disability
Attend all eight weekend sessions. Sessions are Friday from 1:00 to 8:00pm; and, Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Stay overnight at the hotel (paid for by the Leadership Program).
Complete monthly homework and an Action Group Project.
Actively participate in learning and conversation with other participants and leaders who share our vision and values.
Build and strengthen a network of people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences.
What am I committing to?
No. There is no financial cost to those who apply and are selected to participate. But, you must commit one weekend a month for eight months, in-person.
We view the Oregon Partners in Policymaking® Leadership Series as an investment in our future!
Is there a cost to participate in the Oregon Partners Leadership Series?
Who will be facilitating the monthly sessions? What will be on the agenda?
For a list of speakers, learning objectives, and agendas, download the Informational Brochure.
NOTE: Hotel contracts are still being negotiated. Until these are finalized, the date and location is subject to change.
Session 1: History of the disability rights movement
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, September 26, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 2: whole life planning
Where: Bend, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, October 24, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 3: inclusive education
Where: Medford, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, November 21, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 4: Community Organizing
Where: Salem, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, January 23, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 5: Medicaid, Supported Living & Housing
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, February 20, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 6: Medicaid, Medicare & Employment
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, March 20, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 7: Advocacy Strategies for Achieving Legislative & other Policy Change
Where: Salem, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, April 17, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Session 8: StayIng Engaged in Policymaking
Where: Portland, Oregon
Day 1: Friday, May 8, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Day 2: Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Where and when will the in-person meetings be located?
What if I cannot make one of the dates? Should I still apply?
Yes, please apply.
If you cannot attend one of the days, please note that in your application and contact us to discuss it. You may contact us at partners@droregon.org
Where can I download a copy of the application questions?
You can download a copy of the application questions here.
When you are ready to complete the application form, visit our website to complete the form online.
