Institute for a Democratic Society Program

The Institute for a Democratic Society is accepting applications for their upcoming Fellowship program.

IDF is a 6 month fellowship from January through June, occurring over 11 intensive weekends. During these weekends the program focuses on a diverse range of political topics, the nuts and bolts of campaigns and elections, the geographic issues around the state, and developing leadership skills within our community. Fellows meet with elected officials, leading experts, business owners, lobbyists, nonprofit leaders, and people making a difference in their communities all over the state and in Washington D.C. We want our fellows to get engaged in the political process while introducing them to the people and issues that are affecting our state. Each year IDF graduates a "farm team" of progressive leaders who go out into the world and make a difference within campaigns, policy, non profits and their communities.

IDF offers training to exceptional women and men ages 21 to 36.The topics focus on three major areas:

* Public policy and emerging issues
* The legislative and political process
* Campaigns and elections

Fellows travel across Washington State and topics cover the breadth of policy issues including agriculture, homelessness, transportation, education, energy, and the environment. Our days in Washington, DC and Olympia have included meeting elected officials, lobbyists and dignitaries. Campaign training includes development of a campaign plan, effective messaging and communications, volunteer recruitment and managing a budget.

Deadlines

Applications for the Class of 2011 will be accepted starting on July 1, 2010 and must be postmarked or submitted online by November 19, 2010.

If you cannot apply by November 19th, a 'late registration grace period' will be extended through Monday, November 22; however, the application fee then increases to $40 per registrant.

For more information and for application instructions, please visit the IDS website.