Frequently Asked Questions
1) Do the participants work on individual projects? Or only one decided by a team?
Each cohort is different. We may have two teams with two different projects, or the whole group may work on one or two projects. We aim to provide the best learning opportunity for participants to be able to get as much hands on experience as possible. Because it can limit opportunity to apply certain skills, we typically avoid individual projects.
2) The application makes reference to attendance at meetings, retreats, legislation calendar etc -- but I don't know if I can make that commitment unless I know (at least in broad terms) what those schedules are likely to be.
Training sessions are normally held on Friday mornings once a month. The dates, times and sometimes locations are chosen with the group to accommodate schedules. The teams then decide on their own meetings to do the work in between training sessions. Once the legislative session begins at the State House and depending on the policy issue and timing, fellows might need to commit to testify and participate in hearings happening during late afternoons and evenings.
3) What do the trainings entail?
The institute is designed to lead fellows through the policy making process: research, situation analysis writing, formulation of a campaign action plan, implementation of campaign plan (to include education toolkits, community organizing, bill sponsors, testifying), bill writing, communications and messaging, and policy evaluation. Our goal is to give fellows the information, access, and knowledge they need to engage in the policy making process, to have graduates use these skills to advocate for issues thereafter.
4) Can you provide examples of the types of projects fellows typically work on?
The past three cohorts have worked on the following:
- Elder women and healthy aging
- Education funding formula
- Micro lending for women in Providence
- Implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act for women with mobility limitations to access health care screenings in R.I.
- Child care tax credit
5) Do I have to be associated with a nonprofit in order to apply?
You do not have to be employed by a nonprofit to be eligible. If you are employed, it is important to ensure that the employer/organization is supportive of your participation in the Women’s Policy Institute.
6) What if I am retired/a volunteer/a student?
Women from a variety of backgrounds/roles are eligible to apply. Note: The application is written to ensure those who are employed have the support of their employer. If this does not apply to you, please write Not Applicable next to the fourth qualification on page 3 of the application.
7) Is there an age limit?
Women 18 years of age and older are eligible to apply.
8) What is the composition of the Women's Policy Institute cohort?
The Women’s Fund seeks a diverse group of women for each cohort. As such, we evaluate the composition of the group to ensure we have an intergenerational balance, varying backgrounds, interests and experience.
9) I have little or no content knowledge in any of the areas listed on the application, am I still eligible to apply?
You are eligible to apply regardless of your experience in the areas listed in the application.