Free Training Opportunity for Aging Advocates

Oklahoma City - A free training opportunity will be available 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. The course consists of 10, two-day sessions over a one-year period. Instruction is tentatively set to begin in February.

In September 2012, the National Association of States United for Aging and Disability honored OAALA with its Excellence in Volunteer Services Award at its national conference in Washington, D.C.

"Academy participants become committed leaders for today and tomorrow to successfully advocate for Oklahoma’s aging population," said Judy Leitner who developed the academy for OKDHS. 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 for those who qualify. Travel reimbursement may be provided under state travel reimbursement act.

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 applicants should demonstrate 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 graduates of the academy have made, and are continuing to make, great impact on the services available for older Oklahomans. Thanks to this effort, older people of our state have almost 300 foot soldiers working for their best interests,” said Lance Robertson, OKDHS Aging Services Division director.

The application deadline has been extended to January 10, 2013. For more information or to apply, contact Leitner at (405) 752-1257 or ASD at (405) 521-2281.  (Contributed by Katherine McRae, OKDHS Aging Services Division)