The Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation 2018 Public Policy Fellowship Program

The Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation is seeking exemplary professionals, and/or persons experiencing disability and/or family members of persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are currently working or volunteering in the field of inclusive services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation Public Policy Fellowship is a one-year, full-time, intensive immersion experience in Washington, D.C. The purpose of the Fellowship is to prepare emerging leaders to assume leadership roles in the public policy arena at the state and/or national levels. During this one-year Fellowship, the successful applicant will learn how federal legislation is initiated, developed, and passed by the Congress, as well as how programs are administered and regulations promulgated by federal agencies. Fellows also learn how the organized disability community works to shape public policy impacting people with disabilities, and their families. 

Each year the Foundation brings talented and accomplished professionals, family members (many of whom are both professionals and family members) and persons experiencing disability to Washington, D.C. for a full year where they actively participate in public policy development in the offices of a Member of Congress, Congressional committees, or on occasion, federal agencies. Former Public Policy Fellows describe the Fellowship as a major turning point in their professional and personal lives. The experience is a unique chance to understand the intersection of public policy, disability advocacy, and the political process.

• Read full announcement (PDF)
• Apply online
• 2018 application deadline: December 15, 2017; 5:00 p.m. EST