“Without new visions, we don’t know what to build, only what to knock down. We not only end up confused, rudderless, and cynical, but we forget that making a revolution is not a series of clever maneuvers and tactics, but a process that can and must transform us”
Robin D.G. Kelley, Freedom Dreams: The Black Radical Imagination
About the Gathering
The PLACES Alum 2026 Gathering is an opportunity to reconnect with fellow PLACES alums, strengthen relationships across cohorts and spend time reflecting, learning and building on a community that extends well beyond the fellowship itself.
Over the course of the gathering, we’ll explore timely issues shaping philanthropy and social change — alongside honest conversation, shared learning and collective care. Whether you finished your fellowship recently or many years ago, this is a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, build new relationships, and renew your connection to the broader PLACES network.
Designed in partnership by TFN’s PLACES team, the PLACES Leadership Network and Detroit-based alums, this gathering aims to connect the entire Alum Network to renew and strengthen our spirts, imagine equitable futures and build upon our collective knowledge.
This October, we’re excited to offer an inclusive space where PLACES alums can form deeper bonds with each other, learn from local movement leaders, engage in creative and healing practices, gain equity framework and tools, and so much more!
Inspiring Revolutionary Optimism
This year’s gathering is centered on the theme Inspiring Revolutionary Optimism — an invitation to ground ourselves in hope, strengthen our leadership and invest in the collective well-being that sustains meaningful change.
As changemakers, we know that creating lasting impact requires more than strategy and action. It also calls for connection, reflection and care for ourselves and one another.
At a time when narratives of fear, division and despair can leave us feeling powerless, revolutionary optimism reminds us that hope is an active practice.
Together, we’ll explore how to resist doomism, nurture our resilience and continue building the relationships and vision needed to create lasting change.
What To Expect
While the full agenda is still being finalized, attendees can look forward to:
- Interactive learning sessions
- Facilitated discussions with fellow PLACES alums
- Opportunities to build new and deepen existing relationships
- Dedicated networking and community-building time
- Space for reflection, wellness and collective care
Additional agenda and facilitator details will be shared as they become available.
Registration & Pricing
Registration is offered on a sliding scale as part of our commitment to making the PLACES Alum Gathering as accessible as possible while supporting the full cost of delivering the experience. We invite you to select the registration rate that best reflects your individual circumstances and access to organizational or financial resources.
For individuals
- Discounted Rate: $0
For individuals whose participation is supported by an organization
- Full Cost: $300
- Solidarity Rate: $600
Registration fees help offset the discounted rate and support the overall cost of the gathering, including speaker honorariums, facilitator fees, meeting spaces, etc
Hotel & Travel
Hotel booking information, travel recommendations and additional logistics will be available soon.
Please check back for updates, or register now to receive event communications as information becomes available.
Accessibility
TFN is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for all participants.
If you require accessibility accommodations to fully participate in the gathering, please indicate your needs during registration or contact us in advance. We are happy to work with you to support your participation.
Questions?
We’re here to help. If you have questions about registration, logistics or the PLACES Alum Gathering, please reach out to Talissa Lahaliyed at places@fundersnetwork.org.
We look forward to seeing you!