In just a few days, we’ll be meeting all the builders, planners, and leaders defining the future of software–that’s you! But Universe isn’t just about defining what the future can be. It’s also about changing it, for good.

At Universe, we try to show GitHub’s ongoing commitment to positive change and take real steps towards greater social impact (SI). This year is no exception—but we need your help. Whether you’re attending live or via livestream, here are a few ways you can join us in making software a better place for everyone:

Attend panel sessions on open source and positive impact

We’re excited to host two panel discussions with developers who are working at the intersection of open source and positive impact. Both sessions will be available on Wednesday, October 17 (Day 2) at Universe and on the livestream:

  • 10:00-10:30 am: Keynote panel on Open source for good
    Panelists include Miller Abel, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (Mojaloop; using OS to expand financial services for the world’s poor), Julius Sweetland, OptiKey (assistive technology), Tiffani Bell, Human Utility Project (using tech to address the water crisis in Detroit).
  • 1:20-1:50 pm: Breakout session on Developer stories: Addressing social problems with code
    Panelists include John Jones, Case Foundation (how philanthropy and nonprofits can use OS), and Gunho Lee, KipKit School/Enuma (Global Learning XPRIZE Finalist).

We’re hosting three livestream interviews with special SI guests as well—including our scholarship recipients and philanthropic partners. Plus, you’ll also get to see a live demo of the Mojaloop software from the Gates Foundation.

Support our 2018 Community Partners

Every year, we choose several Individual Scholarship Program recipients to attend Universe. Likewise, we’ve selected three local organizations as our 2018 GitHub Universe Community Partners. This year’s partners all received free tickets to GitHub Universe to share with their respective communities:

  • Code Tenderloin: Code Tenderloin is a workforce development nonprofit that aims to secure long-term employment for underserved communities in San Francisco.
  • AnnieCannons: AnnieCannons transforms survivors of human trafficking into software professionals.
  • Women Who Code East Bay: Women Who Code’s mission is to inspire women to excel in technology careers.

Along with providing these organizations with a set number of free tickets, you’ll also have the opportunity to help us support them by making a personal donation during the conference. Keep an eye on the screens at Universe for a special QR code that will take you directly to each organization’s online giving site.

Check out the GitHub Octoshop at Universe

This year, we’ve opted to donate the proceeds from our Universe Octoshop sales to four organizations doing amazing work in the cities where GitHub has local offices. In addition to getting your hands on a golden Mona Lisa, we hope you’ll help contribute to these local organizations by picking up a few more items from the Octoshop at Universe:

There are plenty of ways to make a positive impact in your local GitHub community and beyond—and Universe is just the beginning. We can’t wait to see you there.

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