MAKING LINKS 2009 Sustaining Communities in Tough Times 17 - 18 November 2009 University of Melbourne http://www.makinglinks.org.au/ Call for papers Two major challenges face the world today: the global economic crisis and environmental sustainability. Both are already having an impact on peoples’ lives and livelihoods. Community organisations have already expressed concern that the most vulnerable in our societies will be hardest hit. Community organisations also face the challenge of keeping their operations going in tough financial times, and at the same time trying to be part of the environmental solution, rather than part of the problem. Making Links Conference 2009 asks: how are non-profit organisations meeting these twin challenges? We are seeking presentations that address issues such as: • Technology as a tool to improve communication, increase productivity and retain staff • Disaster response / management / relief • Financing your organisation and its programs in tight economic times • Engaging with communities online • Green ICT projects (from recycling computers to green design to green office to campaigning and more) • Corporate social responsibility - building partnerships to support our communities • Strengthening marginalised communities and constituencies • Research supporting action • The rapidly changing interface of online communication • Community arts and media Making Links is a peer-based conference. We invite you to present a paper on your learning and experiences with ICT, your projects, case studies or research, or lead a practical workshop that introduces useful tools and concepts. The structure of the conference will be based on: • Case studies • Practical workshops • Panel discussions • Networking opportunities • Film festival • Social and satellite events Submit a proposal online at: http://www.makinglinks.org.au/papers.shtml Who should attend? The conference attracts delegates and presenters from many fields including health, environment, education, charities, business, government, philanthropy, human services and non-profits working with marginalised groups (e.g. e.g. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, culturally and linguistically diverse, youth at risk, unemployed, rural and remote, disability). Registrations open 10 June. Keep up to date To keep in touch, sign up for Making Links updates at http://www.makinglinks.org.au/ and join our Facebook group to find out what's going on, contribute ideas, etc., at: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7075421142 -- Dr Marcus Foth Senior Research Fellow Institute for Creative Industries and Innovation Queensland University of Technology (CRICOS No. 00213J) Victoria Park Rd, Brisbane QLD 4059, Australia Phone +61 7 313 x88772 - Fax x88238 - Office K506, KG m.foth@qut.edu.au - http://www.urbaninformatics.net/