Symposium Series
What are the Symposiums?
Sponsored by Thriving Together NCW, Our Valley Our Future holds quarterly Symposiums focusing on elevating important issues aligned with the OVOF Action Plan and the Vital Conditions impacting our region. These events bring together speakers, experts, and community members from public, private and non-profit sectors to share knowledge, spark collaboration, and inspire action. Each symposium features a healthy seasonal lunch. We hope you can join us!
Upcoming Events
Housing Summit – June 11th
Leavenworth Festahlle
9:30am – 3:00pm
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.
All are invited to attend this engaging free event – from housing industry experts to interested community members – we want everyone to have engage and connect. Registration is required.
Interpretation into Spanish provided
2026 Housing Summit Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
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Danny Zavala with Laura Mounter Real Estate & Company
Bronze Sponsors
Save the Date: Industrial Symbiosis – Sept 17th
Learn more about the concept of Industrial Symbiosis – a circular economy.
Save the Date: Wildfire Symposium – December 10th
Presenting Sponsor
Other Sponsors
Our Partners & Volunteers
Past Events
Early Care & Learning Symposium
From the Start: Building a Thriving Future Through Early Learning and Care
March 19th, 2026
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
OVOF Symposium: Mental Health through Community Collaboration
December 11, 2025
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.
OVOF Food Symposium: Tackling Food Insecurity in the Region – September 11, 2025
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.
Healthy Seasonal Lunch was by Szmania’s Catering
Special thank you to Chelan Douglas Community Action Council, Upper Valley MEND, IRIS, and Firm Foundation for their planning and contributions.
OVOF Wildfire Symposium: Protecting Our Health and Wellness During Wildfire Season – June 25, 2025
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.
OVOF and the Vital Conditions – April 9, 2025
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.
