Leaders in Policy Advocacy (LIPA) is a comprehensive 6-month leadership development program designed for adults with developmental disabilities and parents of children with developmental disabilities. The program aims to cultivate empowered leaders within the disability rights movement. LIPA is offered through a hybrid training format of both in-person and online trainings. Michigan Alliance for Families relaunched LIPA in 2023, after it was previously administered by The Arc Michigan.
Space is limited to 20 participants. Applications will be accepted February 1-28, 2025. Selected participants will be notified in March.
If you have any questions, contact Karah Ley at karah@michiganallianceforfamilies.org or 517-574-1517
Training topics include:
- Disability History
- Special Education
- Assistive Technology & Social Media
- Self-Determination
- Alternatives to Guardianship
- Person Centered Planning
- Access to Housing and Employment
- Public Benefits and Systems of Support
- Systems Change
LIPA TESTIMONIALS
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“This entire experience was amazing and has opened my eyes to advocating in a different way. It helped me to view my child and his life in a different way.” – 2024 LIPA alumni
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“I absolutely loved this program and I am so grateful for everything and feel as though this has changed my life and my families life for the better.” – 2024 LIPA alumni
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“Participating in this LIPA program has been one of the best educational experiences of my life.” – 2023 LIPA alumni
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“I am beyond grateful for what I have learned and the connections and people I have met! I’ve learned so much about the past, so I can influence the future!” – 2023 LIPA alumni
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“This program is wonderful. It empowers me to continue my mission of advocacy when I don’t always want to. Thank you for making me a better leader.” – 2023 LIPA alumni
LIPA FAQs
What is the typical training schedule?
What does hybrid training format mean?
Our hybrid format includes both in-person and virtual weekends held via Zoom.
I have a conflict on one of the training weekends, can I still apply?
Yes, LIPA participants are allowed one excused weekend if necessary. We understand that life circumstances or emergencies may arise. However, attendance at the first training weekend is mandatory to complete the program.
Will my hotel stay be included and covered?
Yes, Friday night hotel stays are provided with LIPA upon request. We also cover meals and parking expenses for all participants during in-person training. If you live nearby, you are not required to stay overnight and may return home for the night.
The training location is far from my home, do you reimburse for gas milage?
Yes, we provide program stipends to LIPA participants in the form of gift cards to help cover expenses related to program participation (e.g. gas, child or respite care). Participants will receive half of their stipend during the first weekend and the remaining half on the last weekend.
Is there homework?
Reflection assignments will be given between training weekends. Participants are expected to complete each assignment by the following month’s training. These assignments are not graded but are designed to deepen your understanding of the previous training. There are a total of 5 reflection assignments throughout the LIPA program. They must all be submitted in order to complete the program.
Do participants earn a certificate?
Yes, participants will receive a certificate of completion at graduation during the final training weekend. All program requirements must be met to successfully complete the program and receive the certificate.
