By Chrissie Mouton | Oct. 29, 2026
United Way of Orange County brought nonprofit professionals, board members, volunteers and community partners together Wednesday, October 28, for the Orange United Conference, a full day of professional development, collaboration and networking focused on strengthening local organizations and building a stronger community.
Held at Lamar State College Orange’s J. Michael and Bridget Shahan Events Center, the conference provided attendees with practical tools, fresh perspectives and valuable connections to support their organizations’ work and expand their impact throughout Orange County.
The program featured sessions addressing challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit organizations of all sizes, including nonprofit leadership, board governance, artificial intelligence, grant writing, marketing and branding, and volunteer engagement.
Featured presentations included “The Power of Purpose: Celebrating Nonprofit Impact,” with Roxanne Jones of United Ways of Texas; “Working Smarter with AI: Practical Tools for Small Nonprofits,” with Chris Cheetham-West; and “Make Your Grant Application Stand Out,” with Dr. Colton Strawser. Additional sessions explored effective nonprofit boards, marketing and branding, and strategies to help organizations operate more effectively.
In addition to educational sessions, the conference offered opportunities for attendees to connect with regional resources, including the SETX Volunteer Portal and SETX Nonprofit Development Center. These connections help strengthen the network of organizations and individuals working to address local needs and improve quality of life throughout the region.
The Orange United Conference reflects United Way of Orange County’s ongoing commitment to uniting people and resources to improve quality of life and build a stronger Orange County. By bringing nonprofit leaders and community partners together to exchange ideas, develop skills and build relationships, the conference reinforced the important role strong, connected organizations play in creating lasting, positive change.
United Way of Orange County extends its appreciation to the presenters, attendees, community partners and Lamar State College Orange for contributing to the conference and supporting efforts to strengthen the local nonprofit sector.
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