From Poverty to Possibilities 2026
Join the Conversation. Inspire Action. Create Change.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
McGavick Conference Center at Clover Park Technical College
4500 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
Poverty in America is changing—and so must our response.
Join community leaders, advocates, service providers, business professionals, policymakers, educators, philanthropists, and engaged residents for From Poverty to Possibilities 2026, United Way of Pierce County's annual community conversation focused on understanding the realities of poverty and advancing solutions that create pathways to stability and opportunity.
This year's keynote speaker, Brian Goldstone, is the acclaimed author of There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America. Through powerful storytelling and extensive reporting, Goldstone shines a light on one of the fastest-growing and least understood crises in America: working families experiencing homelessness despite holding jobs, pursuing education, and doing everything they can to make ends meet.
His work challenges common assumptions about poverty and homelessness while highlighting the systemic barriers that keep families trapped in cycles of housing instability.
What We'll Explore
Together, we will examine:
- The changing face of poverty and housing insecurity in America
- The challenges facing ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households
- The impact of rising housing costs on working families
- Community-driven solutions that create lasting change
- Opportunities for collective action in Pierce County
Whether you work in business, education, government, healthcare, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sector, this event will leave you with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our neighbors—and a renewed sense of possibility for what we can achieve together.
Registration
Early Bird Registration: $35
Available July through September
Regular Registration: $50
Beginning October 1
If the registration fee creates a financial hardship, please contact us at poverty2possibilities@uwpc.org or 253.272.4263. This event is made possible through sponsorship support, and all ticket proceeds help United Way of Pierce County support ALICE families in our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I contact the organizer or update my registration?
Please contact us at poverty2possibilities@uwpc.org or 253.272.4263.
Do I need a ticket?
Yes. Registration is required to attend. Please use the registration button above (on the right) to reserve your seat.
Is this a virtual event?
No. This is an in-person event. Event photos, videos, and highlights will be shared following the program.
When should I arrive?
Please plan to arrive between 8:00 and 8:30 AM to allow time for parking, check-in, and breakfast. The program will begin promptly at 8:30 AM.
Is the venue ADA accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking is available, and guests may also be dropped off directly at the entrance.
United Way of Pierce County is committed to making our events as accessible as possible. During registration, please let us know if you require accommodations. If you have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 253.272.4263 or
poverty2possibilities@uwpc.org.
Can't Attend?
You can still make an impact.
If you're unable to join us but would like to support ALICE families in Pierce County, please consider making a donation through our United for ALICE Fund.