Program prepares participants to contribute to Chicago’s civic leadership
ADA 25 Advancing Leadership — the first program in the nation with a vision of people with disabilities leading with power and influence for full participation and equal opportunity in the Chicago region — is now accepting applications for its 2020 Leadership Institute.
The year-long Leadership Institute offers emerging leaders tailored training, mentorship, and networking opportunities rooted in disability rights. This competitive opportunity is open to energetic, aspiring leaders who self-identify as having a disability (visible, invisible, or acquired); reside or work in one of the seven Chicago-area counties (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, Will, and McHenry); and have at least five years of leadership experience (professional or volunteer).
“Being a fellow with ADA 25 Advancing Leadership 2019 has been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done. Being someone with several non visible disabilities this program has allowed me to flourish and grow without any limitations on my gift and talent,” said Art Sims radio personality and ADA 25 Advancing Leadership Ambassador.
Up to twenty Fellows are chosen each year. The final application deadline is October 9.
“Disability is an essential part of the rich diversity of Chicago and the nation – over 800,000 people have a disability in the region alone. Yet, our decision making tables are missing a critical voice. People with disabilities are underrepresented in the region’s nonprofit boards, task forces, public commissions, and more”, says Emily Harris, executive director of ADA 25 Advancing Leadership. “Our Leadership Institute helps to close that gap, creating a network of support and learning for individuals with disabilities who have a passion for change.”
The Institute’s training and programs designed to advance Fellows’ leadership skills, include:
- A two-part, multi-day immersive retreat
- The development of an individual leadership plan, and ongoing support from a mentor to move each plan forward
- Opportunities to pursue leadership positions in the nonprofit and public service sectors, with a focus on readiness and preparation
- Regular meetings and networking events with other members, and connections to civic leadership opportunities
While the Chicago region has hundreds of thousands of civic leadership positions, only a handful are filled by people who self-identify as having disabilities. With a focus on personal leadership and civic engagement, the Leadership Institute is one of ADA 25 Advancing Leadership’s key strategies in increasing civic and engagement and diverse leadership. So far, Advancing Leadership has seen over 150 civic and professional advancements.
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