Institute for a Democratic Future

It's that time of year…the Institute for a Democratic Future (IDF) is officially accepting applications for the class of 2010!

Do you know any talented adults, ages 21-36, who might be interested in this coming year's class?

IDF is a six-month long civics program for men and women focusing on three core areas: public policy, the legislative process and campaigns/elections. The program is entering its 13th year and we are looking forward to hope to have another excellent class who will continue to do great things post-graduation: working for our Democratic allies, moving public policy mountains, shaking up the Washington establishment, running campaigns and running for office.

Our six-month program, which will start in January 2010, will take next year's class all over the state and to Washington DC. We will hear from elected officials, alumni, policymakers and local leaders. To see the program calendar click here.

We're proud of our alumni:

Mark Rupp (‘01) is an attorney who worked for State Rep. Ed Murray and US Sen. Maria Cantwell and currently serves as Gov. Gregoire’s federal liaison in Washington, D.C.

Kevin Van de Wege, (’02), a firefighter from Sequim, was elected to represent the 24^th District in the Washington State House of Representatives in 2006.

Sudha Nandagopal (’08) and Kelly Drake (’07) work with Washington Conservation Voters to keep our elected 
officials green and moving a green, pro-environment agenda forward.

Jennifer Estroff (’09), a community health educator in Ellensburg, got involved in politics through the Obama campaign and currently is the Kittitas County State Committeewoman and a member of the WSDCC Rules Committee.

These are just a few of our graduates who are changing the political landscape. IDF can count among its alumni labor leaders, congressional staff, policy analysts, campaign workers, political consultants, lawyers, fundraisers, and engaged citizens who volunteer on campaigns and in their communities. We are proud for our small part we play in these successes.

Can you help us build our next great class? Do you know someone who might be interested in our program? Send them our way!

For more detailed information on the program and to apply visit our website at
www.democraticfuture.org. We'll be accepting applications through November 20. Please feel free to forward this email to anyone else who might be interested. If you have any questions or comments please call 425-395-4330 or contact me atovrobinson@gmail.com.

Olivia Robinson

Board Chair, Institute for a Democratic Future