Symposium Series
What are Symposiums?
Our Valley Our Future’s Symposium Series focuses on elevating important issues and initiatives in the five-year Action Plan. These events bring together speakers, experts, and community members from public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share knowledge, spark collaboration, and inspire action. Each symposium features a healthy seasonal lunch. We hope you can join us!
Thank You to Our Series Sponsors
Series Partners & Volunteers
Upcoming Events
OVOF Industrial Symbiosis Summit
September 17, 9:30-2:00pm
Wenatchee Valley College
Learn more about the growing Wenatchee Valley Industrial Symbiosis Initiative and its local projects, as well as other industrial symbiosis opportunities in the region, at our Fall Symposium. Attendees will hear from some of the region’s leading practitioners and innovators about ways that industrial symbiosis creates economic value and eliminates environmental harm, and why the Wenatchee Valley is in a prime position to benefit from industrial symbiosis.
Registration is required. Lunch is provided. Spanish will be available.
Thank you to our sponsor!
Save the Date: Wildfire Symposium – December 10th
Past Events
June 11, 2026
Leavenworth Festhalle
We’ve been talking about the housing crisis for over a decade—what progress have we made, and where are we headed next?
Together, we’ll explore the big picture shaping housing in Chelan & Douglas counties and highlight practical, local solutions to increase supply and affordability. From innovative construction methods to workforce development and equitable access to homeownership, this event is designed to inform, connect, and inspire action.
Thank you to our sponsors: Peoples Bank, Laura Mounter Real Estate, Link Transit, City of Leavenworth, Points Consulting, Anchor Qea, MJ Neal Associates, Native Network, Self-Help Credit Union.
May 19, 2026
Wenatchee Valley College
This symposium explored the challenges and successes of early learning in our region. Our keynote, Deeann Puffert showcased the connections between care access and the economic stability of our region.
Thank you to our sponsors: Thriving Together NCW, Catholic Charities NCW, and Wenatchee Valley Medical Group.
December 11, 2025
Wenatchee Valley College
This symposium invites professionals, families, and community leaders to explore how belonging shapes mental health.
Through real stories, regional data, and collaborative learning, participants will discover practical ways to foster inclusive environments and reduce stigma. Together, we’ll highlight how collective action, bilingual engagement, and mental health literacy can strengthen mental health across our region.
September 11, 2025
Wenatchee Valley College
Demand for food is increasing in NCW. Learn how food is being distributed now and the ways we can both build local capacity and increase access to healthy foods.
Special thank you to Chelan Douglas Community Action Council, Upper Valley MEND, IRIS, and Firm Foundation for their planning and contributions.
June 25, 2025
Wenatchee Valley College
Hear from experts as they discuss the condition of our forests, the outlook for the wildfire season, capabilities of local fire departments, health impacts of wildfires on our residents, and ways for people to prepare themselves, their family, and community, and protect their overall health and wellness.
Following the presentations, attendees shared their own insights to help chart a course for a more resilient and healthier future.
Special thank you to Cascadia Conservation District, Chelan County PUD, and CAFÉ for their planning and contributions.
April 9, 2025
Wenatchee Valley College
This Symposium features evidence-based presentations on OVOF game changers and action items that are advancing the 7 Vital Conditions and helping communities and residents thrive in our region.
Learn more about how the Leadership Institute of NCW, a Regional Diversion Facility, a Multicultural and Multiservice Community Center, and Post-Carbon Economy studies and mitigation projects that are meant to improve the overall health and wellness of our residents.
February 6, 2025
Pybus Public Market
This event explored ways the region can “respectfully” increase its housing supply – and what that is likely to look like – in the face of complex barriers and challenges.
Thank you to our sponsors: Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce, Danny Zavala with Laura Mounter Real Estate & Company, City of Wenatchee, City of East Wenatchee, Douglas County, Common Ground, Central Washington Home Builders Association.
