Applications have opened for the 2026 cohort of the Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy (OAALA), a leadership and training initiative aimed at strengthening advocacy for older adults across the US state. Delivered in partnership with Oklahoma Human Services, the programme has been operating for nearly three decades, providing free training to individuals seeking to support Oklahoma’s growing ageing population.
The academy comes at a time when demographic change is placing increased demand on public services, healthcare systems and community-based support. By equipping participants with practical knowledge and advocacy skills, OAALA seeks to build local leadership capacity to complement state-led services.
Focus on tools, services and policy frameworks
Participants selected for the 2026 intake will receive structured instruction on the tools and resources available to older Oklahomans and their caregivers. The curriculum covers key areas such as respite care, in-home and out-of-home support options, transportation assistance and Oklahoma Human Services’ “Aging Our Way” initiative, which is designed to help residents remain independent for as long as possible.
The programme positions advocacy as a critical component of service delivery, particularly in communities where awareness of available resources remains limited. Graduates are expected to act as informed intermediaries between service providers, policymakers and the public.
Public-sector partnership underpins the academy
Oklahoma Human Services views the academy as a strategic extension of its work in the community. According to the agency, the scale and diversity of need among older residents requires collaboration beyond government alone.
“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.”
Programme structure and delivery
The 2026 academy will begin in February and run through August, combining in-person sessions in Oklahoma City with online learning. Classes will typically take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays and will run for the full day. Three of the scheduled sessions will be delivered virtually to improve accessibility for participants who may face travel or time constraints.
The programme will open with an in-person kickoff on February 4, hosted within the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. This will be followed by six sessions scheduled between March and August, with dates subject to change. Organisers have stated that participants will be given as much notice as possible should adjustments be required.
No-cost participation and travel support
Attendance and participation are mandatory for each full day of the academy, reflecting its intensive and collaborative format. Despite this commitment, there is no fee to take part. Tuition, meals and learning materials are fully covered by programme sponsors.
To support participants travelling from outside the Oklahoma City area, overnight accommodation may be available depending on distance. Travel reimbursements may also be provided in accordance with the State Travel Reimbursement Act, helping to reduce financial barriers for those living in rural or remote communities.
Application requirements and deadlines
Applicants are expected to demonstrate a willingness to engage in constructive advocacy and a clear commitment to building inclusive communities that value older adults and people with disabilities. Empathy and an understanding of the challenges facing these groups are considered essential qualities for participation.
Applications must be submitted online and accompanied by a letter of support by January 4, 2026. Individuals who require a paper application or further information can contact the programme directly by calling 405-714-0015 or the Oklahoma Human Services Community Living, Aging and Protective Services main line at (405) 521-2281. Email enquiries can be sent to [email protected].
As public authorities and community organisations continue to adapt to the economic and social realities of an ageing population, programmes such as OAALA underline the role of leadership development in strengthening long-term, community-based responses.
