Leadership Series

Jump to: Who can apply? | When does it take place? | How to Apply | Downloadable Documents

We are accepting applications for Fall 2024!

Save the Dates: November 2-3 and December 7-8.

The Vermont Leadership Series trains Vermonters with developmental disabilities, and their family members, to be advocates for positive social change. Lessons include steps to be a leader, how to get your point across, and key issues in disability rights.

These workshops are comprised of short talks, panels, and lots of hands-on, interactive activities. Trainers model advocating with legislators, ways to promote positive attitudes about disability, and inclusive practices that harness the strengths of all.  Activities are designed to help participants build new partnerships and increase each new leader’s commitment to making Vermont a better place to live for people with disabilities.

As nationally known self-advocate, Chester Finn, said one year at Leadership,  "Your motto should be 'If I don't do it, who will?'"

• There are several handouts to read on what participants expected last season:
  • Stay tuned for the 2025 Leadership Series cover page for a reminder of the dates and application deadline.
    ^{File size: (0 kb)}
  • The full five-page packet and the plain language summary.
    ^{File sizes: (514 kb) (324 kb)}
  • A quick list of "What to Expect".
    ^{File size: (219 kb)}

Leadership is for Vermonters with diverse experiences of disability.

• Examples include:
  • Parents who support a son or daughter of any age with a developmental disability.
  • Adults living with intellectual or other disabilities who want to challenge themselves to speak up and learn new skills.
  • Sisters, brothers, and grandparents who are growing into their role supporting a family member with a disability.

The Leadership Series is recruiting!

Each weekend session begins Saturday morning and ends Sunday afternoon.  Participants usually spend overnight at the workshop location.  Leadership sponsors cover the cost an overnight room and most meals.  Cost should not be a barrier to participating!

The Leaders Series starts in late fall and runs through to winter.  The Planning Team carefully considers venues for accessibility, cost, and location.

How do I apply to become a candidate for participation?

We encourage everyone to apply. Spaces are limited. Do not worry if you are not accepted this time since the Series repeats every year.

• We accept applications all year and follow-up with possible candidates closer to when the series will take place:
  • Save the Leadership Series application to your device and fill-out the application electronically by typing.
    ^{File size: (432 kb)}
  • Print the Leadership Series application from your browser and fill-out the application by handwriting.
    ^{File size: (344 kb)}

• Future participants will be asked to complete a media permission form. You may preview the documents or fill them out if you are a participant.
  • Save the Media Permission form to your device and fill-out the application electronically by typing.
    ^{File size: (995 kb)}
  • Print the Media Permission from your browser and fill-out the application by handwriting.
    ^{File size: (182 kb)}

A Special Graduation Ceremony takes place at the end of the Series.

Graduation location and dates to be decided. Please check this page for updates.

The series is sponsored by the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council and Vermont Family Network, with support from Green Mountain Self-Advocates, the Vermont Department of Health, and the UVM Center on Disability and Community Inclusion.

Downloadable Documents seen on this page: