2008 Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference: June 27-29, 2008 at the University of Michigan
More than 200 youth grantmakers and advisors from Michigan and all around the country gathered for a weekend to discuss issues surrounding youth philanthropy. By learning from each others’ experiences, and creating new memories each day, participants were able to engage in conversations about the amazing things they do and the challenges they face. This year’s theme, “I Am Only One: One Individual, One Community, One Vision,” was reflected through each day’s programming. The sessions allowed participants to strengthen individual leadership skills as well as gain insights on teamwork and community building.
Participants started off the weekend with teambuilding activities, where they met new friends and most definitely broke the ice! Delving right into the “One Community” aspect of the conference, YACers participated in Box City, a community building activity. Given a few guidelines, tons of random materials, and the opportunity to use creativity to the maximum capacity, participants were asked to create model cities based on specific themes.
Moving on to the “One Individual” segment of the conference on Saturday, participants engaged in sessions that helped them learn about themselves and their own leadership styles, as well as how to apply these concepts to group work. A unique aspect to this conference is that participants develop individual leadership skills, as well as an understanding of community leadership. A constant theme throughout this conference is teamwork, which includes helping youth grantmakers grow closer as a group.
Along with enjoying the dance, social time, and lots of bonding, participants learned about each others’ experiences and shared their own. The “Great Grants & Community Initiatives” session was a wonderful time to hear about the amazing grants and community work YACs around the country are doing.
Sunday began with a session about ways to maintain “Best Practices” within YACs, followed by a concluding session on “One Vision.” Thanks to all participants, advisors, and staff for making this year’s conference amazing!
-Learn more about this conference by reading the Yackety-YAC newsletter.
