Alamance Wellness Collaborative 2026 Wellness Summit

This event will explore how the places we gather, outside of home, school, and work shape our health, connection, and sense of belonging. Through a keynote speaker, panel, and breakout sessions this year’s summit will highlight how third spaces across Alamance County are being activated by local leaders, businesses, nonprofits, and recreation & parks to foster connection and community.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Hear from keynote speaker Dr. Aaron Hipp, NC State Professor of Community Health and Sustainability, as he shares what third spaces are, why they matter, and how they influence health.

Afterward, a panel featuring representatives from a local farmers market, community center, small business, and library system will highlight local examples of third spaces across Alamance County. Together, they will discuss what makes a gathering space truly welcoming, the benefits of community connection, and opportunities for local organizations to collaborate.

Following the panel, participants will join interactive breakout sessions to gain practical strategies, hear real-world examples, and explore actionable ways to foster belonging in local spaces. During registration, you will select which breakout session you would like to attend.

PANELISTS (see the bottom of the page for bios):

Zion Cash - Director of the Mayco Bigelow Community Center at North Park

Susana Goldman - Library Director of the Alamance Public Libraries

Sarah Bass - Downtown Development Assistant & Farmer's Market Manager

Taylor Collier - Owner of No Bad Books Co.

BREAKOUT SESSION TOPICS AND FACILITATORS:

Belonging Across Generations: Engaging Youth and Seniors in Third Spaces

Becca Liegey | Mebane Recreation and Parks; Star Sydnor & Chris Wallace | The Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Center

Description: Young people and seniors are among those most at risk for social isolation and loneliness, making welcoming third spaces essential for fostering connection and belonging. Join Red Shield Youth Center and Mebane Recreation & Parks for an interactive session exploring how communities can design programs and spaces that meet the unique needs of both age groups. Through personal stories, youth and senior perspectives, and collaborative activities, participants will discover practical strategies for reducing barriers to participation and creating environments where youth feel safe and seniors experience a true sense of belonging.

Activating Third Spaces Through Design and Programming

Jarrah Passanisi | Flight Tea Bar & Lounge; Bobbi Ruffin | Burlington Recreation & Parks

Description: Third spaces thrive when they are intentionally designed to help people feel welcome, connected, and part of a community. Join Flight Tea Bar & Lounge and Burlington Recreation & Parks for a conversation on how businesses, parks, and public spaces can be activated to foster belonging and social connections. Through real-world examples and behind-the-scenes insights, participants will explore the thought process behind creating inviting environments, designing programs that bring people together, and cultivating spaces where relationships can grow.

PHOTO/VIDEO & EMAIL CONSENT:

By providing your email address during registration, you agree to receive updates from Impact Alamance, including information about future events, programs, or services that may be of interest to you. You may unsubscribe at any time.

By registering, you also consent to photos or video being taken and used by Impact Alamance for print, digital, and social media purposes to highlight our work and community.

If you have any concerns or questions about photo/video or email consent please reach out to lauren.bedell@conehealth.com.