WHAT PARTNER GRADUATES SAY ABOUT THE  PARTNERS PROGRAM….

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“I learned things I had never learned before…I learned self-confidence.” David Gish, ‘97

“If you ever wanted to make a real difference, the Partners in Policymaking program can help you do just that. This program revealed to me some basic truths about what is really important and how to put my feelings into action. It can give you the insight and skills to effect positive change in your family, community, state, even the country. For me, it was a life changing experience.” Tracy Warren, ‘99

“Partners helped me meet new friends, learn how to be independent, and help other people with disabilities.” Daniel Somsen, ‘00

"As Partner in Policymaking graduate, I found that the training supplied me with a lot of knowledge, resources and networking to address the needs of my family, friends, co-workers and my occupation as a social worker. It was a fun-fantastic and rewarding experience leaving me with lifetime friends and acquaintances.” Denise Roberts, ‘00

“I learned how to speak up for myself and to go after the things I wanted in my life.” Arthur Murphy Sweet, ‘98

“Partners taught me how to advocate for myself and others.”   Kristyn Herbert, ’99 with Mayor Brent Coles of Boise

“Before I did Partners it was hard for me to make friends. When I was in Partners I realized how many great friends I had in the class with me. They are still my good friends.” Mark Burdic, ’99 with Governor Kempthorne and friend Bruce Lawrence

As a child of about seven, my family and I went on a camping trip. Times were tough and trips were few. Anticipation of this trip was extremely high. My Father gathered up my siblings and me and away we went. After selecting just the right spot and the camp was set up, my father released us to "explore our surroundings." My younger sister and I swiftly disappeared into the magnificent forest. Trees, flowers, insects and nature consumed our time. Father cautioned us about traveling only a short distance from camp and to return before lunch. Following the counsel of my Father, we began the trek back to camp. Once we passed the same spot twice we soon realized that we were lost. Panic soon followed and then despair. We had sense enough after traveling past the same spot for the fourth time to sit tight in one spot and wait for help. After a few prayers and a very hoarse voice my father soon appeared and rescued two weeping young children.