Mission Events
In addition to the work we do on our news site, covering issues of importance to Generation Y, we also organize events that promote civic and community engagement among young people. Take a look at some of the things we have planned in our communities.
For more information about any of these events, please contact us info@ygenoutloud.com
Programs
Sponsor debates between elected officials and other leaders
To provide opportunities for the Generation Y audience to learn more about the important issues of the day, Y Gen Out Loud sponsors debates with elected and other community leaders. The open forums provide the pros and cons/ all sides of an issue, such as healthcare reform, foreign policy, the economy, federal debt, environmental policy, jobs creation, and use of technology.
Debaters are asked questions about the issue at hand from the perspective of the younger generation. At least 30 minutes of each debate is devoted to taking questions from the audience, allowing Generation Y to fully participate in the process.
Sponsor social networking opportunities that educate and foster relationships among Generation Y and community organizations
For our democracy to thrive, we must embrace civic virtue. It is important that people be educated about and given the opportunity to contribute to their community. To help towards that end, Y Gen Out Loud sponsors social networking opportunities that educate and promote relationships among Generation Y and community organizations.
These networking opportunities occur monthly, and are open to all members of Generation Y. Guest speakers representing nonprofit organizations talk about how Gen Y can become involved in their communities.
Through these networks, Generation Y can become civically aware and engaged in their communities, and create relationships that will foster greater awareness of others’ positions and beliefs.
Harvard sociologist Robert Putnam calls these networks of relationships “social capital,” arguing that all aspects of community are strengthened when social capital is strong. Interaction enables people to build communities, to commit themselves to each other, and to knit the social fabric. A sense of belonging and the concrete experience of social networks (and the relationships of trust and tolerance that can be involved) can, it is argued, bring great benefits to people.
Outreach to other generations to educate them about Generation Y
The political pendulum swings both ways. Just as it is necessary for Generation Y to learn how to play a role in their government and communities, it is imperative that older generations be given the tools to encourage civic participation among Gen Y.
We offer workshops to other nonprofit and civic organizations on ways to engage Generation Y in citizenship and volunteerism that mutually benefits their causes and constituencies as well as Generation Y.
Create web-based seminars to educate Generation Y about government
As sufficient funds are raised, Y Gen Out Loud will create web-based seminars that teach Generation Y the how-tos of government and civic participation. The webinars will be available on the Web site.
