In this Issue:
- Will we see you next Friday to celebrate the Class of 2026?
- We’re just $1,715 short of reaching our $10k Scholarship Fund goal!
- Interested in joining the board of directors or board of advisors?
- Host a fellow in your home or host an evening reception
- We’re bringing back our Jobs List-Serv!
Will we see you next Friday to celebrate the Class of 2026?
With another diverse class ready to begin, we invite you to join us as we celebrate the Class of 2026 as they start their six-month fellowship journey. April Sims, President of the Washington State Labor Council, will be the keynote speaker.
April Sims, President of the Washington State Labor Council, will be the keynote speaker.
Event Details:
- Friday, January 9, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Inatai Foundation | 1301 5th Ave #2800 Seattle, WA, 98101
- Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: $32
- Kickoff Sponsor: $100
- Kickoff Champion: $2026
Questions? Please reach out to us at info@democraticfuture.org.
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We’re just $1,715 short of reaching our $10k Scholarship Fund goal!
Can you help us reach our goal of $10,000 to support the Class of 2026 by Kickoff Weekend?
One of the most critical aspects of the program is ensuring access and affordability for all fellows.
A contribution, whether it’s $5, $25, $250, or $5,000, helps ensure that someone from Yakima, or Spokane, or a rural corner of the state can say “yes” to this program. It reduces tuition, offsets travel, and opens doors for leaders who might otherwise be shut out.
Every dollar helps us live our values: that leadership shouldn’t depend on your income.
Help us raise $10,000 by Kickoff weekend!
Interested in joining the board of directors or board of advisors?
As WAIDF approaches our 30th anniversary in 2027, we’re growing—and we want you to be part of it.
We’re recruiting passionate individuals for two leadership opportunities: our Board of Directors and our newly established Board of Advisors.
Board of Directors
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Our working board is where your voice, expertise, and energy directly shape the next generation of progressive leaders. Directors collaborate to guide strategy, oversee our signature fellowship program, and build the pipeline of leaders Washington needs. We’re seeking problem-solvers with skills in governance, finance, communications, technology, fundraising, or program development. One position we are trying to fill is the Treasurer role. If you have a financial background or are willing to step into the role and learn the ins and outs of being a Treasurer, we’d love to hear from you!
Board of Advisors
Prefer to lend your expertise without the time demands of a governing board? Our first-ever Board of Advisors will serve as strategic thought partners for the road ahead. We’re seeking seasoned professionals who can offer guidance through quarterly meetings and flexible engagement.
Both roles offer the chance to make a lasting impact on progressive leadership development in Washington and beyond.
Ready to join us?
- Read the FAQ to see the differences between the Board of Directors and the Board of Advisors
- Board of Directors: Cover Letter and Packet and Application Form
- Board of Advisors: Cover Letter and Packet
Questions? Contact Board Chair Francis Choe at chair@democraticfuture.org
Host a fellow in your home or host an evening reception
As fellows, staff, and board members travel the state on a tight budget, we rely on our amazing alumni, partners, and friends to help make this program accessible and welcoming.
That might be opening your home, sharing a meal, or hosting a casual gathering after a long day of learning. These are often the moments when connections deepen, and the WAIDF community truly shines.
As we plan the 2026 Fellowship year, we’d love to know if you’re interested in:
- Hosting one or more fellows in your home, and/or
- Hosting or co-hosting a relaxed Friday or Saturday evening reception
If you’re interested or want to learn more, please fill out the Program Hosting & Reception Interest Form below.
Every offer, big or small, helps keep this program accessible, affordable, and rooted in community. Thank you for being part of what makes WAIDF special.
We’re bringing back our Jobs List-Serv!
We’re pleased to announce that we’re bringing back our WAIDF Jobs List-Serv!
To subscribe, either email jobs+subscribe@democraticfuture.org (no subject line or text in the body is necessary)or use this Google Form.
If you choose the email option, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and your request will be approved shortly thereafter.
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Institute for a Democratic Future
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