2026 NEERO Conference Update

Dear NEERO Members,

 

We appreciate your contributions to the NEERO community and are writing with an important announcement for the 2025-26 membership year. Over the past few years, the costs associated with the annual conference have more than doubled. Increases in hotel, food/beverage, and facility rental have been observed across the country and are not unique to our region or organization. Our mission as an organization is to provide an affordable, professional conference that is accessible to our members, many of whom have limited budgets for conference participation. As a result, NEERO will shift its efforts in the coming year and focus on strengthening the organization through targeted fundraising initiatives and select, smaller-scale professional development events.

 

While there is strong enthusiasm for these next steps, we acknowledge that building the infrastructure and capacity for sustainable fundraising requires time, intentional planning, and community engagement. As such, following thoughtful reflection and input from the Board, NEERO will not conduct a traditional annual conference in Spring 2026. 

 

What’s next for the NEERO Board?

• Formation of a Fundraising Committee:
  A dedicated Fundraising Committee will be established to design and execute a strategic plan aimed at ensuring NEERO’s long-term financial sustainability and organizational growth.
   

• Annual Board Retreat:
  In late August 2025, the Board will convene for its annual retreat to engage in in-depth discussions around these initiatives and to chart a clear course for NEERO’s future.

 

How can YOU help?

• Join or Lead the Fundraising Committee:
  Have experience with fundraising? We’d love your help! The Board is actively seeking members with fundraising expertise—or simply a strong interest in supporting NEERO’s financial future—to help shape and implement our strategy.
   

• Support Fundraising Initiatives:
  Contribute to our efforts by participating in fundraising campaigns or assisting with sponsorship outreach. Your involvement is vital to building a strong, sustainable foundation for NEERO.
   

• Volunteer for Event Planning:
  Help coordinate smaller-scale professional development events in 2026. These events will offer meaningful learning opportunities while generating revenue to support NEERO’s mission.
   

• Amplify Our Message:
  Spread the word about NEERO’s mission and upcoming activities within your professional and personal networks. Every connection helps expand our reach and strengthen our community.

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• Share Your Feedback:
  We value your voice. Let us know your ideas, questions, and suggestions for how NEERO can better serve its members and continue to grow sustainably. Have ideas or want to get involved? Email us at neero.conference@gmail.com—we’d love to hear from you!

 

Together, we can ensure NEERO remains a vibrant, supportive, and resourceful community for all members. If you are interested in volunteering or would like to learn more about getting involved, please email us at neero.conference@gmail.com. 

 

We deeply value our NEERO community and remain committed to ensuring the long-term success of our organization and its ability to support your professional development needs.

 

Thank you for your understanding and continued engagement as we navigate these changes together.

 

Warm regards,
Jessica and Bryan
President and Vice President, NEERO