We are thrilled to announce that registration is now open for the 2018 Annual Conference of the Funders’ Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities (TFN), which takes place March 19-21 in Houston.

TFN’s annual conferences provide an exciting opportunity to join funders from across North America to explore the strategies and stories that are creating more equitable, sustainable and resilient places to live.

The conference’s lineup of sessions and speakers will let us hear from diverse and thought-provoking voices on issues such as protecting our natural resources, building inclusive economies and incorporating equitable practices into our work.

We are so proud that TFN’s 2018 Annual Conference will take place in our beloved city of Houston, which continues to rebuild and recover following Hurricane Harvey.

This year’s devastating hurricane season — which affected many communities in the Gulf Coast and South Florida, as well as Puerto Rico and islands across the Caribbean — along with recent earthquakes and fires underline the urgency to address the critical issue of climate change and to build stronger and more resilient communities that can withstand and recover from extreme weather events. It also reinforces the need to approach preparation, relief and recovery in a way that is fair and just, especially for the most vulnerable. Houston is an ideal place for these types of conversations, and we look forward to hearing and sharing our respective experiences, insights and lessons learned to help create more resilient communities.

Beyond discussions of resilience, TFN’s 2018 Annual Conference will connect you to other leaders in philanthropy as well as local leaders and key partners to explore a range of issues associated with environmental sustainability, social equity and economic prosperity. The three-day program also features mobile workshops that will give you a first-hand look at Houston’s vibrant neighborhoods and unique approaches to tackling complex challenges, an Eat Here! reception that highlights the best of our local cuisine, and so much more!

We hope you’ll join us to learn, share, and be inspired. For more information, be sure to visit the TFN 2018 Annual Conference webpage.

We look forward to seeing you in Houston!

Sincerely,

TFN 2018 Annual Conference Co-Chairs

Marilu Hastings
Vice President, Sustainability Programs
The Cynthia & George Mitchell Foundation

Elizabeth Love
Senior Program Officer
Houston Endowment