Partners in Policymaking Graduation set for May 18

The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities announced today plans for graduation for class 41 of its’ advocacy training course, Partners in Policymaking. This free, nationally acclaimed program is for adults with developmental disabilities and parents/legal guardians of younger children with developmental disabilities. This eight-month program runs from September to May and through informative and interactive sessions, the program teaches leadership and advocacy skills and the process of developing positive partnerships with elected officials and other policymakers who make decisions about disability supports and services.

This year the course will graduate 30 members on Saturday, May 18 in Bloomington.

“This groundbreaking program continues to impact lives in so many positive ways,” said Colleen Wieck, Executive Director of the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. “Commencement isn’t the end of the educational journey, but rather the beginning of a lifetime of advocacy.”

This year’s graduating class is a diverse mix from parents of children with disabilities to individuals with disabilities of their own from all parts of Minnesota.

For two graduates, the end of the eight-month class represents an opportunity to reflect on the impact the program has had on them.

Steven Reinardy of Inver Grove Heights is the current director of safety for Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI). As a child Reinardy developed Macular Dystrophy, which brings a loss of one’s central vision. As he grew older, he witnessed first-hand the changes in the ways people with disabilities were treated in society. While there has been progress, Reinardy believes more can be done. By participating in this class, his hope is to become a stronger advocate for himself and others. Specifically, Reinardy is interested in making a positive change in transportation opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

“By participating in Partners, I have been armed with the knowledge to be able to make a difference,” he said. “With the knowledge and confidence, I have gained, I am ready to speak to lawmakers about increasing the quality of transportation for those with disabilities.”

Hutchinson’s Dennis Hruby, a retired parent of two children and one grandchild with serious developmental disabilities felt called to enroll in the course because he feels that support has not greatly changed in decades. Because of his involvement in the course, Hruby and his wife Sandy have been able to start a nonprofit to provide parents with resources for children with disabilities.

“We have channeled our frustrations and are working to make a positive difference,” said Hruby. “Being a part of this training has helped immensely. We are grateful for the learning and understanding offered in this outstanding course.”

Since its inception in 1987 almost 1,200 Minnesota self-advocates and parents have become stronger advocates by participating in group exercises and teaching from experts in the field of developmental disabilities. Many participants describe this training as “life changing” in how they can be better advocates for themselves and others in the community.

Classes cover the history of disability and self-advocacy movements, inclusive education, supported living, and competitive employment. Individuals are given tools to influence county, state, and federal legislative processes.

“It is bittersweet to see our graduates leave each spring,” said Wieck. “I am confident these graduates will continue to influence public policy and make Minnesota more inclusive.”

For more information on the Partners program or to apply before its July 1, 2024 deadline, please visit https://mn.gov/mnddc/pipm/.