The second class of OICA's Advocacy Boot Camp (ABC) is designed to increase the number of and training of those who speak for Oklahoma's children. ABC will consist of seven different sessions spread across the year, with advocates learning everything from legislative procedures to a deeper understanding of the resources that exist across Oklahoma. An emphasis on how to be stronger advocates for key issues will be the primary goal of the ABC, which shall include learning about support services for youth and families, the legislative process, and how to communicate effectively with policymakers.

This second class, to be mentored by members of Class One, will be among the next generation of policy leaders. Trained advocates will leave with the skills to lead positive changes in communities across the state, working at the grassroots level to make Oklahoma a better place for its youngest residents. Members of this inaugural class will learn leadership skills and then put that knowledge to work by mentoring the second class of the Advocacy Boot Camp. The connections made will lead some ABC graduates to possibly seek elective office themselves, advocating for Oklahoma’s children and the future of our state’s economy. Participants will spend time delving into the work of various youth groups within Oklahoma, like youth in military families, indigenous youth, at-risk youth, and youth within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

The destinations will include stops at Sequoyah State Park in September, Lawton in October, Oklahoma City in November and January, Stillwater in April, and Tulsa in May.

OICA has partnered with the Potts Family foundation to have Anne Roberts, OICA's former long-term CEO, lead much of the advocacy training for the program. The class will culminate with each member being assigned to a mentor role for someone in the third class, and each class member will be tasked with returning to their community to serve in a leadership role with a youth nonprofit organization to help in elevating that organization's work.

The cost to apply for the program is $50, and if you are accepted that money goes towards your registration fee of $500. These events will be multi day events with hotels and food included for the entirety of the event. Thank you to the sponsors listed who have subsidized the cost for attendees!