September 30, 2026 | Davis Conference Center

Impact is an invitation to focus on what matters most.

In a sector where needs are constant and resources are stretched, it's easy to equate being busy with making a difference. But meaningful impact comes from aligning your time, energy, and resources with your mission and values. When you lead with clarity and purpose, you create lasting change for your organization, your team, and the communities you serve.

Coming together at this conference strengthens that impact. Stepping away from the day-to-day gives you space to reflect, learn, and connect with others who understand the opportunities and challenges of nonprofit work. By sharing ideas, experiences, and insights, we build stronger leaders, stronger organizations, and stronger communities.

Thank You to Our Premier Sponsor:

Recognize the individuals who have made a lasting impact on your organization by nominating them for the UNA Hall of Fame. Whether it's your longtime executive director, dedicated volunteer, influential advocate, or visionary community leader, now is the time to celebrate those whose work has strengthened our sector.

This nomination is FREE. Hall of Fame recognition includes a certificate and pin to honor the unique contributions of your nominee.

Nomination information must be received by 11:59 PM Friday, August 20, 2026.

2026 Conference Keynote:

Reviving Ourselves

In a moment where we feel battered down, squeezed, and exhausted, how can we still believe in and lead towards a better future?

People always remember that Fred Rogers said “Look for the helpers.” But he was quoting his mother, who said it to comfort him as a child. Today, as leaders, I believe our call is to “Be the helpers,” visibly and proudly, so there will always be helpers for children to find.

About the Speaker: Nicholas Ma

Nicholas Ma is an award-winning director, writer, and producer based in Brooklyn, whose film work spans an eclectic array of topics: from botany to basketball to WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?, on the life of Fred Rogers.

Most recently he wrote and directed MABEL (SFIFF, 2024) and directed LEAP OF FAITH (Picturehouse, 2024). His films have premiered at Sundance, New York Film Festival, and Tribeca.

He is also the founder and principal of Ernest Lyford, a boutique consulting firm that unites the creative and the strategic to transform the way we see the world.