Yellowstone Conference: Stronger Together, Building Strategic Partnerships for Lasting Impact

Events
The Yellowstone Conference Stronger Together, Building Strategic Partnerships for Lasting Impact

Join us for a day of inspiration, learning, and collaboration designed to strengthen partnerships and spark lasting impact.

Yellowstone Conference 2025 at a Glance:

Topic: Stronger Together, Building Strategic Partnerships for Lasting Impact
Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: 1701 Ray of Hope Lane, Billings, MT.
Tickets: Click here to purchase tickets on Eventbrite

Credits: 5.75 CEUs & 6 OPI credits available
Format: In-Person or Virtual | Lunch & Snacks Provided

This annual gathering unites leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across sectors to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and spark new opportunities for growth. Through dynamic panel discussions and interactive networking, participants will gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and stronger connections to drive meaningful, lasting impact in our communities.

Panel Topics & Descriptions

Strengthening Native American Partnerships: Leveraging Community Partnerships for Collective Impact

Moderator: Josie Brady, Native American Services Coordinator.

This panel emphasizes the importance of building strong, respectful, and mutually beneficial relationships with Native American communities. By fostering authentic partnerships, the effort seeks to honor cultural traditions, elevate community voices, and collaborate on shared goals. Leveraging cross-sector partnerships enhances access to resources, supports sustainable solutions, and drives collective impact. The focus is on long-term trust, equity, and shared decision-making to strengthen outcomes for Native youth in their communities.

Empowering Excellence: Strengthening Workforce Development through Higher Education Partnerships

Moderator: Kristin Thompson, Associate Director of Human Resources.

A strong, mission-aligned workforce is the backbone of effective nonprofit impact. This panel explores how strategic partnerships with higher education institutions can help build and sustain a pipeline of skilled, passionate professionals. These partnerships not only enhance organizational capacity but also ensure that services remain responsive, community-centered, and future-focused. Together, we can cultivate a workforce that’s ready to meet today’s needs—and tomorrow’s possibilities.

Mission-Driven Collaboration: Uniting Youth-Serving Organizations for Greater Reach

Moderator: Katie Gerten, Marketing & Communications Director.

When youth-serving organizations unite around a shared mission, their impact multiplies. By combining strengths and resources, partners expand reach and deepen support for kids and families. These collaborations close gaps and build stronger systems—especially in under-resourced areas—creating a more connected, resilient network of care that ensures youth get the support they need, when they need it.

Bridging Sectors, Building Futures: Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Change

Moderator: Mike Chavers, CEO.

When government, business, and community organizations come together, the results can be transformative. This panel explores how cross-sector collaboration sparks innovation, drives sustainable solutions, and strengthens communities for the long term.

Special Keynote Speaker

Mohini Venkatesh, Chief of Staff of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing

Conference Agenda

  • Registration (8:30–9:00 AM)
  • Welcome (9:00–9:15 AM)
  • Strengthening Native American Partnerships Panel (9:15–10:30 AM)
  • Break (10:30–10:45 AM)
  • Empowering Excellence Panel (10:45–12:00 PM)
  • Lunch (12:00–1:00 PM)
  • Mission-Driven Collaboration Panel (1:00–2:15 PM)
  • Dessert Break, Sponsored by Grand Canyon University (2:15–2:30 PM)
  • Bridging Sectors, Building Futures Panel (2:30–3:45 PM)
  • Keynote Speaker – Mohini Venkatesh (3:45–4:30 PM)

Have Questions About the Yellowstone Conference?

For questions about this event, please reach out to us at info@ybgr.org.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.