NATIONAL LIVED EXPERIENCE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

What is the National Lived Experience Leadership Conference?

The National Lived Experience Leadership Conference is a conference designed by and for people with lived experience of homelessness. It aims to empower and uplift the voices of those who have experienced homelessness and are passionate about creating change. The conference provides an opportunity to build relationships, learn from one another, and be inspired to return home with renewed energy and new strategies to reduce homelessness in our communities.

When and where will the conference be held?

The conference will be held on November 11, 12, and 13, 2024, in San Jose, CA.

What is the theme of the 2024 conference?

The theme for the 2024 National Lived Experience Leadership Conference is “Power and Unity: Mobilizing for Action.”

Proposals to present at this year’s conference are no longer being accepted.

Are there scholarships available to attend the conference?

Limited scholarships are offered to support the attendance of individuals with lived experience of homelessness. All presenters with lived experience whose proposals are accepted will receive scholarships, if needed. Scholarship opportunities are no longer available.

How much does it cost to attend the conference?

Registration is $350 (not including travel and lodging). Please visit the Marriott San Jose hotel page to make a room reservation at a discounted rate. 

How many people can attend the conference?
The conference venue has a limited capacity, and the exact number of attendees will be determined based on space constraints and safety considerations. Early registration is encouraged to secure your spot at the conference.

How can I stay informed about conference updates and announcements?
To stay informed about the latest conference updates and announcements, please visit the conference website regularly and sign up for email updates. You can also follow the conference organizers on social media platforms for real-time information and engagement opportunities.

Where can I stay during the conference?

Please visit the Marriott San Jose hotel page to make a reservation.

Can I sleep in my car at the conference?

While we understand the challenges faced by some attendees, sleeping in vehicles at the conference venue will not be permitted due to local regulations and safety concerns. The conference organizers will provide information about affordable lodging options near the venue, and scholarships may be available to assist with accommodation costs for those in need.

What if I need transportation from the airport to the conference?

The conference organizers will provide information about transportation options from nearby airports to the conference venue. This may include shuttle services, public transportation, or ride-sharing options. Detailed information will be available on the conference website as the event approaches.

Click here to view the conference agenda and programming.

Will there be opportunities for networking and collaboration at the conference?

Yes, the conference aims to foster relationships, learning, and collaboration among attendees. There will be various opportunities for networking and connecting with others passionate about creating change in the homelessness sector.

Are there any pre-conference workshops or training sessions?

Yes, there will be pre-conference workshops and training sessions available for attendees. These sessions will cover various topics related to homelessness, leadership, and advocacy. Details about pre-conference offerings will be provided on the conference website and in the registration materials.

Will there be opportunities for attendees to share their own experiences and expertise?

Yes, the conference will provide various opportunities for attendees to share their experiences, knowledge, and insights. This may include participating in panel discussions, breakout sessions, or informal networking events. Attendees are encouraged to actively engage in discussions and contribute to the collective learning experience.

What can I expect to learn from the conference? 

The conference will offer a wide range of learning opportunities, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and training sessions. Attendees can expect to gain knowledge and insights on topics such as lived experience leadership, best practices in homelessness solutions, collaboration strategies, advocacy, and policy change. The conference aims to empower attendees with practical skills, tools, and resources to make a positive impact in their communities.

What measures will be in place to ensure the health and safety of conference attendees?

The conference organizers are committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all attendees. The event will follow the most current public health guidelines and recommendations from local, state, and federal authorities. Detailed information about health and safety measures will be provided to attendees before the conference.

Will there be food provided?

Yes, the conference registration will include meals and refreshments throughout the event. The organizers will work to accommodate diverse dietary needs and preferences. Please indicate any specific dietary requirements during the registration process.

What if I don’t have nice clothes to wear to the conference?

The conference aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees, regardless of their personal circumstances. While we encourage attendees to dress comfortably and appropriately for the professional setting, there is no strict dress code. The conference organizers understand that some attendees may face challenges in acquiring formal attire and will work to ensure that everyone feels respected and valued for their contributions, not their appearance. Registrants can indicate such needs during the registration process, and the organizers will provide support as needed.

What conference app will you be using?

The conference will be using the Whova conference app to help attendees navigate the event, access session information, and connect with other participants. The app will provide features such as a personalized agenda, speaker profiles, attendee networking, and real-time updates.

Do I need a device such as a smartphone, computer, or tablet to navigate the conference workshops?

While having a personal device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop can enhance your conference experience and make it easier to access the Whova app, it is not mandatory. The conference organizers will provide printed materials, such as schedules and session handouts, for those who may not have access to a personal device. Additionally, there will be on-site support available to assist attendees with navigating the conference and accessing the information they need.