2025 National Conference

The National Conference will kick off in the afternoon on Monday, July 21, and why not arrive in Fort Worth a little early? Participate in a half-day pre-conference workshop to hone your leadership skills or participate in an adventurous excursion.  

Pre-conference excursion and workshop information will be made available in February 2025. 

The 2025 ALP National Conference promises to be an extraordinary event filled with networking opportunities, insightful discussions, and impactful experiences. We encourage all attendees to extend their stay and explore the vibrant city of Fort Worth and the wider North Texas area. Known for its rich Western heritage, cultural landmarks, and warm hospitality, Fort Worth offers so much to enjoy beyond the conference. Whether you’re bringing family or colleagues, staying a few days before or after the conference will give you ample time to experience all that Fort Worth has to offer. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your extended visit: 

• Dive into Fort Worth’s Western heritage: Fort Worth, known as Cowtown, is home to a rich Western legacy that’s uniquely Texas. Visit the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of cowboy culture, complete with cattle drives, rodeos, and Western-themed shops. Explore the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, or take in a live rodeo for an authentic Texas experience.

• Explore the cultural district: Fort Worth’s Cultural District is a must-see, featuring world-class museums and art galleries. Visit the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, all located within walking distance of each other. With its vibrant arts scene, Fort Worth offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in culture.

• Savor Texas cuisine: North Texas cuisine is a flavorful blend of Tex-Mex, Southern comfort food, and, of course, Texas barbecue. Try the local favorite, a traditional Texas BBQ brisket, or indulge in some authentic Tex-Mex. The Fort Worth Stockyards and the lively Sundance Square area are brimming with local restaurants and eateries where you can experience the true flavors of Texas.

• Discover the great outdoors: Fort Worth and the surrounding area offer beautiful parks, lakes, and nature preserves for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Trinity Trails for walking, running, or biking along the Trinity River, or visit the Fort Worth Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat. Nearby Eagle Mountain Lake is a great spot for boating, fishing, or picnicking.

• Family-friendly attractions: If you’re traveling with family, Fort Worth has plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages. Spend a day at the Fort Worth Zoo, ranked among the best in the nation, or visit the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, which offers engaging exhibits for children and adults alike. Don’t miss the famous Fort Worth Water Gardens, a unique urban park with interactive water features.

• Day trips and regional highlights: Take a day trip to nearby Dallas for additional museums, shopping, and culinary experiences. Visit the historic Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about the legacy of President John F. Kennedy, or explore the scenic Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

By extending your stay in Fort Worth, you’ll find the perfect balance between attending the 2025 ALP National Conference and discovering the best of Texas. Make the most of your time in Fort Worth—experience the spirit, flavors, and culture that make this city unforgettable!

A portion of all 2025 National Conference Sponsorship revenue will be placed in the ALP Leadership Program Assistance Fund, alongside contributions from ALP National Conference registrants. Programs that cannot cover the total cost of conference registration can apply for registration fee assistance.

Each eligible registrant may receive a maximum benefit of 50% of the registration fee, which is limited to one individual per organization.

More information and a link to apply for consideration will be made available in February 2025. 

The ALP National Conference offers a unique experience for Community Leadership Program professionals and alumni seeking to deepen their impact. The 2025 ALP National Conference will be packed with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow as leaders alongside peers from across the nation. Here are the top reasons why you should attend and invest in this opportunity to advance your skills, strengthen your network, and gain the practical tools you need to continue to drive meaningful change in your community.

• Build Lasting Connections – Network with professionals from the community leadership programming industry and forge meaningful, supportive relationships that extend beyond the conference.

• Gain Practical Tools and Strategies – Access workshops and sessions packed with actionable strategies you can immediately apply to foster positive change in your program and community.

• Advance Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership – Learn from diverse voices and explore inclusive practices to create more equitable, representative leadership models.

• Engage in Intergenerational Dialogue – Connect with both emerging and experienced leaders, benefiting from mutual learning and ensuring continuity in leadership best practices.

• Strengthen Resilience and Adaptability – Acquire guidance on building resilience and adapting leadership approaches to meet the ever-evolving needs of your program and community.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving – Participate in sessions designed to harness diverse perspectives and collectively address common challenges facing community leaders today.

• Leave Inspired and Transformed – Immerse yourself in a transformative experience that will expand your leadership perspective, equip you with new skills, and ignite your drive to lead change.

• Stay at the Forefront of Community Leadership – Be part of a dynamic environment that empowers you to lead change and leave changed.