Because the future of our movement lies in recruiting a new generation, not only to our socialist vision but also to the project of building an organized socialist presence in the United States, youth conferences are among the most important events that we organize. 

 

The life-long bonds between comrades that are often forged at these conferences are critically important to building our organization. The  summer conference involves much more than networking; it sets an Activist Agenda that focuses our youth and campus activity for the year.

 

The cost of conferences often becomes a significant barrier to participation. To offset that obstacle the DSA Fund has established a special scholarship fund and accepts tax-deductible contributions for the sole purpose of increasing youth participation in this and important gatherings.

 

The economic crisis is having a significant impact on students; they face reductions in assistance programs, increased tuition costs and a shortage of summer jobs. Every year of the Great Recession it becomes even harder for students and young people to take time off from work and then lay out the funds for travel, room and board for this conference. This year requests for financial assistance are coming in at an incredible pace, more the half of the participants need assistance and for the first time we are faced with the prospect of losing  participants, simply because we do not have the funds on hand to meet their needs.

 

We understand that these times are hard on everyone, which is why we value  and appreciate the on-line support the Scholarship Fund receives. The conference opens on August 5 so we don't have much time left. The deadline for applications is July 18, just two days away and by the 20th we must inform participants of the level of support that is available. The Scholarship Fund needs support now in order to generate the maximum attendance at the conference. Your help is vital. We need to raise at least $950 more in order to meet the needs of conference participants.

 

You can make a tax-deductible contribution right now to support a new generation of socialist activists. Just click on one of the amounts listed below to charge a conference scholarship for one young person for one, two or three days to your MASTERCARD or VISA.

Thanks very much for your support and generosity.

 

In solidarity,

 

 

Frank Llewellyn

National Director

 

P.S. Our secure shopping cart only allows us to offer set amounts. If you would like to give an amount that is not listed, simply increase the quantity of gifts. So selecting two "$65" scholarships lets you give $130, and five "$100" scholarships lets you give $500. If you would like to send a check, just put in the mail to the national office (payable to DSA Fund) with the word "youth" noted on the check

 

P. P.S. To check out the conference web site click here.