2024 Global Summit on Social Impact

Attendees can check-in at the registration table from 8:30 to 9 a.m.

The 2024 Global Summit on Social Impact Summit, co-hosted with Points of Light Global Network affiliate Stowarzyszenie Centrum Wolontariatu, will focus on how displacement reaches every corner of society, affecting individuals impacted by natural disasters, human-made crises, shifts in climate and changes in immigration regulations. ​This often-neglected aspect of resilience efforts is the post-disaster phase for those who have been displaced. It will require collaborative partnerships across various sectors that engage everyone to address the displacement crisis genuinely.​

This conversation between Points of Light Board Chairman, Neil Bush, and U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzezinski explores the power of being a connector in the wake of pressing issues impacting our world. The pair will reflect on the impact of President Bush’s speech in Poland at the roundtable accords nearly 35 years ago and how collaboration plays a key role in building solutions.

The need for human connection is fundamental and our desire to be a part of something larger than ourselves drives much of what we do as a community. The refugee crisis worldwide is pushing communities to morph and change to accommodate new members of society. Increasingly, refugees are seen as part of a political conversation versus a humanitarian one. But when government, social and private sectors work together in support of refugee communities, they can help mitigate the political discourse that can arise.

Listen to cross-sector leaders discuss the role partnerships play in building communities. Hear examples of how cross-sector partnerships can focus on the potential of building togetherness and serve as a mechanism for bridging political divides. 

In the face of increasing global uncertainties and the rising frequency of natural and human-made disasters, there is a role for both the social and business communities in supporting displaced people. Each must play a pivotal role in building lasting resilience of the communities where they operate.

During this session, panelists will explore the multifaceted dimensions of civic engagement, delving into examples that illustrate models for integrating displaced people into their new community and the power of effective collaborations between businesses and NGOs in these efforts. 

Volunteer centers have always been at the center of civic engagement but until recently many of them would not have specifically designated themselves as a disaster response and resiliency organization. As the communities facing natural and human-made disasters grow, many, if not most, civic engagement leaders must also consider themselves new leaders in disaster response.  

How does an organization whose primary purpose is volunteerism and civic engagement offer support and resources to refugees? What are some of the successes and challenges seen in this work? How can an organization transform or add programming that meets this need while remaining committed to a mission of civic engagement? During this session, panelists will answer these questions as well as share personal examples of their own organization’s refugee work. 

Lunch to follow (provided)