Stronger Together: Summit 2025 Recap

From October 21 to 25, affiliates, national staff and partners from across the country gathered in Long Beach, California, for Summit 2025: Stronger Together. This year’s theme celebrated the power of connection, reminding us that when we share knowledge and work together, we amplify our impact in communities nationwide.

The week kicked off with pre-sessions focused on affiliate operations, including Salesforce, HR and grants management. Attendees also participated in the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) training, preparing them to better serve older adults.

On Thursday, Summit officially opened with dynamic sessions like Building Your Path: Empowering the Next Generation of Nonprofit Leaders and the Executive Director Roundtable. A screening of No Place to Grow Old shed light on the growing crisis of housing insecurity among older adults, while the evening’s reception at the Museum of Latin American Art brought attendees together for a night of celebration and community.

Friday featured an inspiring keynote from Erin Dawkins, followed by lightning talks on topics ranging from brand storytelling and partnerships to innovative housing models. Attendees then explored Long Beach through hands-on networking and service activities, including a beach cleanup and a heritage walking tour.

Keynotes included Lieutenant General (Ret.) Wendy Masiello, who inspired attendees to lead with integrity, courage and connection; and Heath Slawner who encouraged us to embrace an infinite mindset and build stronger, more innovative, and more inspiring teams and organizations.

The Celebration of Excellence dinner that evening honored affiliates and leaders whose creativity and compassion continue to drive Rebuilding Together’s mission forward.

Saturday’s sessions focused on resilience, collaboration and disaster preparedness. As Summit 2025 came to a close, one message resonated through every session, story and conversation: we are stronger together.