User-Generated Breakout Sessions

Registrants were given the chance to submit either topic requests or proposals to host a session during online registration. Please, attend the session that interests you the most. All sessions will take place on Day 1 from 3:30-5:00PM. See the conference agenda for more information.

Creating New Models to Engage Young Workers, All-Minds/Hands on Deck

A conversation about effective models for engaging young people in political work in areas such as policy, community organizing, and elections.

Retirement USA: Universal, Secure, and Adequate Retirement System for Future Workers

A discussion on why so many workers now rely on 401(k) plans, which have been proven to provide inadequate amounts in retirement, and how to create a new retirement system that will, in addition to Social Security, result in a universal, secure and adequate retirement system for future workers.

Serve America: What is your Impact? Volunteering in the Age of Facebook, YouTube & Twitter

A discussion on how youth volunteerism is a solution to national problems, the importance of using social media to demonstrate impact, and how it can lead to an increase in overall civic engagement.

REMIX! Using the Arts as Service-Learning.

This workshop introduces service-learning to participants, REMIX style, using spoken-word, hip-hop, dancing and other forms of art. The old definitions of service-learning are re-vamped to suit a younger audience. This interactive session will teach and show participants how to get started in their own communities using the REMIX approach. It will inspire you to dig deep, to figure out what your art and passion is, and will give you the steps you need to take to bring about change in your community. If you are interested in hip-hop, service, or just want to learn a new way to serve, come attend this one of a kind workshop!

Running For and Winning Elected Office at a Young Age

A discussion about why you should run for office. In 2008, 4.8% of all elected leaders in the United States were young elected officials between the ages of 18 and 35. Living in a democratic society demands active citizens who vote, advocate, mobilize, and sometimes, run for office. Why should you run for office? What are the challenges and opportunities for young candidates? What happens after you win? This panel will address these questions and more.

Bursting Bubbles, Buyers' Markets & Broken Dreams

The bursting of the housing bubble has caused one of the largest losses of wealth for families, particularly for families of color, in the history of our country and spurred the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. The unemployment rate is higher than at any point since the early 1980s and is still on the rise. But in this economic disaster zone, opportunity has emerged for a new generation of homebuyers. The federal government has recently taken measures to "stimulate" the economy, using rebates and tax credits to encourage "big ticket" purchases, first in the auto industry, and now in the housing market. What is the effect of these factors on young people entering the housing market? What are the impacts on the economically disadvantaged.

Let's Get Creative

Making health care accessible for students. A brainstorming session about how young people may benefit from existing programs that provide healthcare so that medical emergencies or medical needs do not take them away from finishing their degrees. For example, citywide insurance, such as MAP cards, and sliding fee scale health clinics can be alternatives for young people in need of health care during their post secondary education.

The Knowledge Tour '09 and the Detective Democracy

A seminar session and general introduction to voting's everlasting, non-partisan icon for kids: Detective Democracy. It's a character created to deliver research gathered about young people and why it is important to vote. This is a project that seeks to empower young Americans. Please join us to hear more about the campaign and share your thoughts about what it could be.


The A Better Deal Conference is a project of Demos. For more information about Demos, the Economic Opportunity Program or research on the economic challenges of young people, please visit: www.demos.org.
Demos