A visionary and unified Alliance of YMCAs leading change, supporting impactful leaders, and developing healthier communities.

Celebrate 175 Years of Leadership in Action with us! Join YMCA staff and volunteers from across Northern New England for our annual Leadership Conference—an energizing day of learning, connection, and inspiration as we honor this milestone year.

Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026 

Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 

Location: Holiday Inn by the Bay, 88 Spring Street, Portland, Maine

Don’t miss our Pre‑Conference Welcome Reception on Wednesday, November 18: Headshot Happy Hour hosted by Perry Weather, 5:30–7:00 PM — a fun, relaxed way to kick off the celebration and update your professional photo with Kate Brindley Photography

Registration Now Open!

Conference registration includes:

  • Pre-Conference Welcome Reception
  • Light breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Refreshments throughout the day

Early Bird Registration: September 3rd-October 2nd, 2026 ($80)
General Registration: October 3rd-November 12th, 2026 ($96)

We’re putting the finishing touches on an exciting conference experience. Stay tuned for announcements about our keynote speaker, workshop sessions, and conference experiences.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Sponsorship Info!

We couldn’t fulfill our mission without the generous support of our corporate partners. Explore how your organization can connect with engaged YMCA leaders, showcase your brand, and directly support the professional development that fuels our mission.

Sponsorships are limited and anticipated to sell out. Reserve yours today by contacting Katie Parker at katie.parker@nneymcas.org.

Awards

The YMCA Alliance of Northern New England is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Northern New England Leadership Conference Awards.

We have reimagined recognition and awards for the 2026 conference with five regional award categories:  

Character Development Award
Community Impact Award
Rising Star Award
Visionary Leadership Award
Alliance Champion Award 

Learn more about each award and eligibility criteria HERE!

Nomination deadline:
Friday, September 25th at 5pm

Help Us Celebrate Our History

In celebration of the 175th Anniversary of the Y (174 in NNE), we want to share the history of YMCAs and Independent Camps in the region during our Conference festivities. 

Use this Canva Template to format and upload here. Contact Katie Parker with questions at katie.parker@nneymcas.org

Hotel Accomodations

A block of rooms has been reserved for NNELC attendees at the Holiday Inn by the Bay at a discounted rate of $149+ per night on Wednesday, November 18.

For hotel information and to reserve a room, click the button below. Once at the Holiday Inn page, click on the green Make Reservation button in the middle of the page to book your room.