The application window for the 2026 Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy (OAALA) has been extended to 11 January, providing additional time for prospective participants to apply for a programme that has played a central role in shaping advocacy for older adults across the state for nearly three decades.
Based in Oklahoma City, OAALA operates in partnership with Oklahoma Human Services and offers free, structured training to individuals seeking to better understand and support the needs of Oklahoma’s growing ageing population. The academy is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, leadership skills and policy awareness, enabling them to act as informed advocates within their communities.
The extension of the application deadline comes at a time when demographic pressures continue to place increasing demand on public services for older adults and their caregivers. Oklahoma, like many regions in the United States, is experiencing steady growth in its ageing population, driving the need for community-based leadership and advocacy to complement government provision.
Participants accepted into the 2026 cohort will undertake a comprehensive programme covering the tools, services and resources available to older Oklahomans and those who care for them. Course content includes respite services, in-home and out-of-home care options, transportation assistance and an overview of Oklahoma Human Services’ Aging Our Way initiative. The aim is to provide participants with both practical insights and a broader understanding of how state-level policy and community action intersect.
“The impact OAALA graduates make in Oklahoma communities compliments our agency’s efforts to make services and supports available to older Oklahomans,” said Jeromy Buchanan, Director of Oklahoma Human Services Community Living, Aging and Protective Services division. “Oklahoma Human Services cannot support all the various needs of our state’s aging population alone and we are grateful and proud to serve alongside these engaged leaders and advocates in service to older adults.”
The academy will formally begin in February and run through August 2026, combining in-person and virtual learning. Classes are typically held on Wednesdays and Thursdays and are structured as full-day sessions. While most sessions will take place in Oklahoma City, three sessions will be delivered online to improve accessibility for participants based further afield.
Structured programme with blended delivery
The opening session, scheduled for 4 February, will be hosted in person within the Oklahoma City metropolitan area and will serve as a formal kickoff for the cohort. Subsequent sessions are planned for 11–12 March, 8–9 April, 13–14 May, 17–18 June, 22–23 July and 19–20 August. While organisers note that dates are subject to change, participants will be given as much advance notice as possible should adjustments be required.
Attendance and active participation are mandatory for each full day of the programme, reflecting the academy’s emphasis on engagement and peer learning. There is no cost to participants, with tuition, lunches and learning materials fully covered by programme sponsors. For those travelling significant distances, overnight accommodation may be available, and travel reimbursements may be provided in line with the State Travel Reimbursement Act.
OAALA is seeking applicants who demonstrate a clear commitment to constructive advocacy and social change. The programme places particular emphasis on building inclusive communities that recognise and value older adults and people with disabilities. Applicants are expected to show empathy for these groups and a willingness to apply advocacy techniques in practical, community-based settings.
The academy’s long-running presence has helped to establish a network of graduates who continue to influence local policy discussions, service delivery and community awareness related to ageing issues. Organisers view this growing alumni base as a key strength of the programme, extending its impact well beyond the classroom.
Applications for the 2026 cohort must be completed online and submitted alongside a letter of support by 11 January 2026. With places limited, organisers are encouraging interested individuals to apply promptly to take advantage of the extended deadline.
For those looking to play a more active role in shaping the future of services and support for older Oklahomans, the Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy offers a structured and well-established pathway into advocacy leadership.
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