Inter-generational forum focuses on issues surrounding Social Security reform
Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) April 11, 2005 -- The New Pittsburgh Collaborative (NPC), a non-partisan network of diverse and civically engaged Pittsburgh organizations, and the AARP co-hosted a packed forum on Social Security reform this week that was attended by more than 400 young professionals and retirees.
Because many of the 22 NPC member organizations serve a young professional demographic that may be seriously affected by the outcome of the proposed changes to Social Security, the NPC felt it was important to foster an open dialogue where younger generations and older Americans could engage in a discussion about Social Security reform.
We are finding that in Pittsburgh, young professionals who are 30 or more years away from retirement are discussing an issue that once seemed confined to their parents' or grandparents' generation," said Sandee Connors-Rowe, NPC Programming Chairperson.
Heather Sage, a representative of NPC member organization Ground Zero, said, "I found the event to be both informative and eye-opening. I am in my early thirties and have not given much thought to the impact Social Security has had on my family, or how it will one day directly affect me. This event has made me much more aware of how critical it is that my generation be involved in this debate as it unfolds."
Jon Delano, political analyst for KDKA, moderated the forum. The panel of experts included Sylvia Borzutzky, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Dept. of Social and Decision Sciences and Heinz School at Carnegie Mellon University; Rafael Engel, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, and Coordinator of the Gerontology Certificate Program; Fred Griesbach, Pennsylvania State Director for the AARP; and Douglas Kreps, CFA, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager of Fort Pitt Capital Group.
"We should not be surprised that many younger adults - along with older Americans - have serious questions as they learn more about the potential consequences of private accounts," said Fred Griesbach, AARP Pennsylvania State Director.
The NPC actively seeks to foster dialogue on issues that directly affect the younger population of Pittsburgh, from Social Security reform and civic engagement to volunteerism and diversity.
About the New Pittsburgh Collaborative
The NPC is a non-partisan network of diverse and civically engaged organizations joined in a commitment to the future of the Pittsburgh region. These groups share information and pool resources for events and initiatives to educate their members, advocate for dialogue on regional issues, influence decision makers and encourage progress in Pittsburgh. Visit www.newpittsburghcollaborative.org for more information.
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