The Community Equity Programming (CEP) offered by Wilder is a seven-month cohort initiative designed to empower individuals from underrepresented communities in Minnesota to engage effectively with state-level legislative processes. The program focuses on building advocacy skills, fostering community leadership, and promoting systemic transformation at the Capitol. CEP is not centered on electoral politics but provides foundational skills beneficial for those interested in future political involvement.
CEP is a no-cost program open to individuals 18 years or older who reside in the Twin Cities metro area, including Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties. Participants should either belong to an underrepresented community or be strong allies and must be committed to attending at least 90% of scheduled meetings. The program involves around 16-20 hours of monthly commitment, including biweekly educational sessions, collaboration with advocacy coalitions, and additional assignments and activities.
The 2025-26 cohort begins with a kickoff on September 5th and 6th, followed by biweekly Friday sessions from September through March. These sessions occur at Wilder's main office in Saint Paul or the Capitol and include a mix of in-person and occasional virtual formats. The curriculum covers legislative timelines, policy analysis, bill drafting, testimony delivery, and coalition building, with a strong emphasis on community reflection and support.
Applicants undergo a two-part selection process involving an initial online application and a subsequent group interview for selected candidates. Applications are accepted from May 16 to June 15, 2025. Applicants will be notified about interview eligibility by July 7, and final acceptance decisions are communicated by July 31. Interviews are scheduled between July 14 and July 25, with no weekend options available.
Participants will also have the opportunity to engage socially with their cohort and alumni through monthly events and interact with experienced professionals such as policymakers, journalists, and community organizers. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony on March 27, 2026.
For questions or assistance, applicants can contact Michelle Koffa Dormoh, Community Equity Program Manager, at michelle.koffadormoh@wilder.org. More information is available on the CEP program’s webpage at www.wilder.org/cep.
