History
IDF was established in late 1997 to develop and promote emerging generations of Democratic and civic leaders in Washington State. Founded by Dean Nielsen and Lisa Witter, the program was established in response to a lack of organizations or training at the time that offered a comprehensive learning experience for young adults. The first class graduated 24 fellows in June of 1998. IDF has graduated 344 students over the last fourteen years and is proud of the wide array of accomplishments of our alumni.
The Program Itself
IDF is a six-month fellowship from January through June, occurring over eleven intensive weekends. During these weekends the program focuses on a diverse range of political topics. The program covers the nuts and bolts of campaigns and elections, geographic issues from around the state, and developing leadership skills with our fellows. The program offers a rich curriculum, networking opportunities, and will leave Fellows with lasting ties to their current class and other alumni. 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 jobs, non profits and work in 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 a 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.
Costs
Tuition for the Institute for a Democratic Future is $500. Scholarship and payment plans are available. If you have any questions about costs or scholarships, please contact us.
Application Process
All prospective participants must submit an application form, cover letter, resume, and at least one letter of recommendation. Participants must be Democrats between the ages of 21 and 36. Final selection will be determined through an interview process, and there is a non-refundable $25 application fee, due at the time of application.
To stay true to our guiding principal of diversity, the following goals have been established by the Executive Board:
- 1/3 Participants from Seattle (maximum).
- 1/3 from King County (outside of Seattle), Snohomish and Pierce counties.
- 1/3 from all other counties (minimum).
- 50/50 balance of men and women.
- Proportionate representation of racial and ethnic groups. Folks of any sexual orientation, gender identity, military veteran status or religion are also encouraged to apply.
Deadlines and Timelines
- Applications will be considered on a rolling basis starting August 1, 2011.
- Applications must be postmarked by November 18, 2011 (Late applications will be considered until November 21, 2011.
- Interviews will be scheduled individually shortly after the application process ends, typically the first weekend in December.