2026 Fall Board of Directors Meeting and Building Better Futures: A County Leaders' Symposium on Youth Outcomes
Hosted by NACo President George Dunlap in partnership with NACo’s Large Urban County Caucus and Board of Directors
The future of our communities depends on the future of our youth. And the question is not whether we can do more—but how can we do better together?
County leaders partner every day with families, community organizations and private businesses to improve outcomes for young people—especially our most vulnerable. Yet even as we make pockets of progress, an important question remains: How can we build better futures for our youth?
Hosted by NACo President George Dunlap as part of his presidential spotlight, in partnership with NACo’s Board of Directors and Large Urban County Caucus, “Building Better Futures: A County Leaders' Symposium on Youth Outcomes” will focus on practical strategies and collaborative approaches that counties can advance at the local level—from proven prevention and early intervention models to cross-sector partnerships that align resources and expand opportunity.
The symposium will bring together county officials, along with intergovernmental policymakers and cross-sector partners, for a focused, solutions-driven dialogue on strengthening outcomes for vulnerable youth. Participants will also visit county partners in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina for a hands-on experience.
Participants will leave with actionable ideas, stronger partnerships and a shared commitment to measurable outcomes for vulnerable youth. Because lasting progress doesn't happen by accident—it happens when counties lead.
Who Should Attend
- County elected officials
- County administrators and senior staff
- Health, human services and justice system leaders
- Education and workforce development partners
- Community-based and nonprofit organizations
- Private sector and philanthropic partners
What to Expect
Participants will engage in a solutions-oriented dialogue and site visits focused on what is working—and how we can do better for our youth. The summit will highlight:
- Actionable, evidence-based strategies that improve outcomes for vulnerable youth
- Strengthen partnerships across public, private and nonprofit sectors
- Explore opportunities to better align resources and services
- Learn about the latest brain science around the development of adolescents
Meeting Location
Omni Charlotte Hotel
132 East Trade Street
Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
Phone: 704-377-0400
Event Schedule
Explore the full schedule below. Please note, all times listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Share Case Studies & Solutions
Help us crowd-source evidence-based policies and practices with county involvement and partnership that are helping create a better future for our youth – submit your case studies and resources today!