Shape of the Region Conference

Opportunity & Economic Mobility

Shape of the Region Conference
The Community Foundation hosts an annual Shape of the Region Conference each spring. Since its inception in 2018, the event has evolved into a platform that helps organize our collective efforts to co-create a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable region. Featuring some of Northern Virginia’s liveliest, most incisive thought leaders, the event also showcases national speakers and broader perspectives on our common challenges and themes.

See information about each of our conferences to date below.

2025 SOTR Banner

Upcoming! 2025 Shape of the Region Conference

Creating Safe, Supportive Futures for Northern Virginia’s Youth

Northern Virginia’s youth face alarming challenges, with 13.2% feeling unsafe at school and suicide now the second leading cause of death for children aged 10-14. On March 13, 2025, the Shape of the Region Conference will convene state and national experts to explore solutions that create safer spaces, prevent bullying and substance abuse, and expand mental health access. Together, we’ll discuss how these efforts can empower our youth to thrive academically, enter the workforce, and secure pathways to economic mobility—ensuring Northern Virginia remains a place they call home. Join us in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
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2024 Shape of the Region Conference

Social Trust and Civic Healing


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2023 Shape of the Region Conference

Aging in Northern Virginia



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2022 Shape of the Region

Finding our Way Back to Mental Health: Designing a more accessible, equitable system in Northern Virginia



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2021 Shape of the Region

Co-Creating a New Northern Virginia An Emerging Vision of a More Inclusive, Equitable and Sustainable Region

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2020 Shape of the Region

The Economic Case for Inclusivity

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2019 Shape of the Region

The Business Case for Economic Mobility

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2018 Shape of the Region

Opportunity and Inequality

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