Ruritan National Convention Program 2026

FRIDAY MORNING WORKSHOPS Running Fun, Effective, and Engaging Meetings 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Lanes End Meetings don’t have to be boring or a chore—they can be the heartbeat of connection and teamwork. In this workshop, you’ll discover how to run gatherings that bring people together, spark ideas, and leave everyone feeling energized and valued. Facilitator: Ron Uthus The Future Is Now: Engaging Tomorrow’s Leaders Today 9 a.m - 9:45 a.m. Dixiana How do we inspire younger generations to join, stay, and lead in our communities? Using Simon Sinek’s powerful insights from Leaders Eat Last, this interactive session will explore how trust, belonging, and shared purpose create a culture where people of all ages want to contribute. Participants will: Discover practical strategies for connecting with younger members. Learn how to create a “Circle of Safety” that fosters commitment and collaboration. Walk away with real tools to make service relevant and meaningful for today’s generation. Why attend? Because the future of Ruritan — and our communities — depends on engaging the next wave of leaders now. Engage. Inspire. Lead the Future. Facilitator: Jonathan LaFollette It Takes a Village (of Ruritans)... Let’s Build a Club in Every One! 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Darby Dan 1. Where do you begin? 2. How to find people to join? 3. What is required? 4. Actual examples of opening clubs. 5. Don’t stop there! Facilitators: Brenda Hisghman and Sandra Burner-Cave

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