Academy Will Discuss Aging Advocacy

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- A free training opportunity will be available in 2011 for individuals who would like to volunteer and become community advocates for Oklahoma's aging population.
The Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy identifies, trains and develops volunteer leaders and advocates in issues related to aging.

"Through the academy, participants become committed leaders for today and tomorrow to successfully advocate for Oklahoma’s aging population," said Judy Leitner of the Aging Services Division of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

The academy is sponsored by the Aging Services Division and is funded in part by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

The classes are held at 2401 N.W. 23rd St., suite 40, Oklahoma City, and overnight accommodations are available. Travel reimbursement may be provided under state travel reimbursement act. The course consists of 10, two-day sessions over a one-year period. Instruction is tentatively set to begin in February 2011.

Meals and snacks will be provided on Friday and Saturday. Text books and resource materials are also covered. There is no tuition fee. However, since OAALA sponsors are providing tuition, each participant should plan to complete the full course.

Leitner said part of this commitment involves a willingness to utilize constructive advocacy techniques to effect social change, sensitivity to the needs of people, an ability to see things from the point of view of others and a commitment to building communities that include and value all older persons and persons with disabilities.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 31, 2010. For more information or to apply, contact Leitner at (405) 752-1257.

###