h1_transform_america

Program Overview

We train the next generation of social entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem solvers for the 21st century, by providing:

EDUCATION in the skills of effective change agents:

  • Courses for change makers and  aspiring social entrepreneurs – Our courses teach the best scientific research on developing the skill sets of effective change makers. The students complete a 6-week portfolio project: a self-assessment of their talents, strengths, and life aspirations. They also come up with visionary ideas for addressing a social issue.
  • Books and Resources - Transform America offers numerous books, teacher’s manuals, case studies, and other resources for young people who are interested in the best ideas for transforming their lives and their communities.

PRACTICE – in apply these methods in the world:

  • Peer-to-peer workshops  for gaining  skills of change makers – Students can engage in semester-long workshops to develop some of the essential skills for successful civic engagement, including resilience to adversity, empathy and win-win conflict resolution. The students will chart their progress over the course of the semester, and hold each other accountable in their peer networks.
  • Apprenticeships in social innovation - For 9 months to 1 year, selected students will be eligible for apprenticeships with some of the most visionary, innovative, and transformative organizations working to change the world.

ACTION - through working with transformative organizations:

  • An annual competition for the “Best 100 Ideas for Transforming America” - Transform America will be offering a venture marketplace – an online platform where millions of people can vote with their dollars. Individuals can invest in ventures that they believe will make the greatest social impact.
  • A summer institute for solving societies most pressing problems – Each summer, we will select a single major problem that needs addressing. For example, in the summer of 2011, it may be energy and the environment. In 2012, it may be public health. Then we will bring together 25 of the best young visionaries who are working on this issue for a summer institute of 6-10 weeks, as well as, many of the world’s leading experts in that issue area to serve as mentors and collaborators during the summer.