When families of children with disabilities and special health care needs are at the decision-making table, programs are improved and more accessible. Resources and services are created by the people making decisions; Parents can be meaningful contributors to shaping the systems that support their children and others.
Family Voices of Wisconsin developed the Wisconsin Family Leadership Institute (WiFLI) for parents of children with disabilities and special health care needs. Our goal is that every WiFLI participant gains the skills and confidence to be at the table when decisions are made in the community: serving on community advisory groups (like at the library, school, recreation programs, or medical clinic) to county or state boards or committees. Parents can also share their experiences with systems, to advocate to their legislators for real solutions.
This series provides the building blocks to successfully extend the advocacy you are already doing to reach beyond your own family, affecting the systems, programs, and services you interact with every day. From Telling your Story workshops to understanding how Boards and Committees work, we’ll get you started on your family leadership journey.
Participation in WiFLI Foundations includes registration to our Advocacy for Change.
Take your existing leadership experiences to the next level as this series takes a deep-dive into strategic thinking in advocacy, leadership philosophies, and the imposter experience. WiFLI Advanced also includes special interest topics that applicants request. Past discussions have included managing emotions in advocacy, breaking through barriers in making change, and finding leadership opportunities. Expand your toolbox as we talk about re-framing conflict into opportunities for growth and how to have a meaningful impact on communities. Sign up to receive email alerts when applications are open.
Accepted applicants will be offered overnight accommodations.
(Due to limited space additional family members and friends cannot attend sessions.)
Friday, February 21, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Saturday, February 22, 8:30am – 4:00pm
Wednesday, March 19, 9:00am – 4:30pm
Friday, April 11, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Saturday, April 12, 8:30am – 4:00pm
