On November 4, 2026, Penny Lane Centers will gather for our 5th Annual Rise Up Conference: The Power of Belonging. This year’s conference invites us to explore what it truly means to create spaces where people feel seen, valued, connected, and know that they belong.
Our opening keynote, “Othering & Belonging: The Culture That Shapes Our Mission,” will bring together Arena Turner, Marianne Yamato, and Dr. LaQuitta Simms of the DCFS Office of Equity for a powerful conversation about the culture, systems, and practices that shape our work and our sense of belonging.
Our midday keynote, Dr. Nazanin Zargarpour, will present “My Education in Belonging: The Work Between Othering and Thriving,” inviting us to reflect on the experiences and intentional work that can move us from othering toward deeper connection, understanding, and thriving.
We will close the day with Dolores Villanueva, who will share “We Have Always Belonged: Embracing Our Stories with Roots & Wings,” a reflection on identity, story, connection, and the strength found in knowing where we come from while embracing where we are going.
In addition to our keynote presentations, attendees will have 12 engaging workshops to choose from, addressing a wide range of challenges, ideas, and opportunities related to belonging. Throughout the day, participants will have opportunities to learn, reflect, connect with others, and leave with ideas they can bring back to their organizations, teams, and communities.
November 4 is quickly approaching, and now is the time to register! Rise Up is more than a conference—it is an opportunity to step away from our day-to-day work and come together around conversations that matter. Whether you are a community partner, advocate, practitioner, leader, or someone committed to creating more inclusive and connected communities, there is a place for you at Rise Up.
Don’t wait to reserve your spot. Register today and join us for a day of learning, connection, reflection, and action. Bring your colleagues, invite your community partners, and help us fill the room with people ready to listen, learn, and create meaningful change together.
On November 4, we invite you to Rise Up, come together, and be part of creating a future where everyone feels seen, valued, connected, and knows that they belong.
We can’t wait to see you there!
