On June 16, members of the 2023 cohort of Competence and Confidence, Partners in Policymaking (C2P2) visited the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg.

Photo: The C2P2 2023 cohort outside Pennsylvania's Capitol in Harrisburg.

During the visit, the group practiced advocacy skills by helping to educate state legislators and staff about issues important to people with disabilities and their families. Participants worked in small groups to discuss issues such as: the need for caregiver leave time; the importance of inclusive education in public schools; and ending the waiting list for home and community-based supports needed by thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.

"C2P2 Legislative Day is a unique opportunity for family members and people with lived disability experience to share their stories with our lawmakers."
Stacy Phillips, Project Coordinator for Education and Leadership Development

C2P2 is an intensive leadership, advocacy and education opportunity designed to train parents of school-age children with disabilities as well as adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities or autism. Facilitated by the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, with support from the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs, C2P2 is based upon a national training model that encourages program graduates to "pay it forward" by sharing what they learn with other families and self-advocates across Pennsylvania. Spread over eight weekends, the program alternates between in-person activities held at the Temple Harrisburg campus, and virtual sessions. Session topics include the history of the disability rights movement, the importance of community inclusion, self-advocacy skills and educating legislators and policy-makers.

Participation in C2P2 is free, but a commitment to attend and participate in all sessions is required. Complete information about C2P2 is available on the Institute's website.