At The Association, we take your feedback seriously. From conference evaluations to focus groups, your input has shaped a redesigned and expanded experience that delivers more of what you’ve asked for—more time to connect, more time to collaborate, and more time to solve real-world challenges together.

This conference is as much about the people as it is the programming. You’ll have ample opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the country—representing a wide array of roles, perspectives, and lived experiences.

Opportunities to connect include:

• Project Chimps Sanctuary Tour
• Community Wellness Day volunteer opportunity
• The Network Live daylong event
• Group discussions after the keynote and general sessions
• Facilitated Track Discussions on Tuesday and Wednesday
• Shelter tours on Thursday

Deepen your expertise with skill-building content tailored for intermediate and advanced professionals. With 4 general sessions and 20 workshops across 4 key focus areas, you’ll leave with practical tools, fresh insights, and new strategies to bring back to your organization.

Conference Tracks:

• Collaborative & Strategic Leadership
• Communications & Marketing
• Fundraising
• Strategic Workforces

We believe that everyone has a voice in the future of animal welfare—and that real progress happens when every voice is not only heard but valued. This conference is built on a foundation of inclusion, designed to create a space where people of all backgrounds, roles, and experiences feel welcome, seen, and supported.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll find opportunities to show up as your whole self and connect meaningfully with others. Whether it’s your first time attending or your tenth, we’ve created intentional spaces that foster a sense of community, celebrate diversity, and support authentic belonging.

Opportunities to experience and expand your sense of belonging include:

• Orientation for First-Time Attendees
• Affinity Group Luncheons
• Furmily Feud Event
• Off-Site Social Gathering at the World of Coca-Cola
• Facilitated Conversations & Small Groups

This isn’t just a professional development event—it’s a chance to engage with a community that values your perspective and is committed to moving the field forward, together.