Plug into the movement for human-focused, forward-thinking poverty solutions

Across the country, states are leading a new wave of reform—moving beyond managing poverty to restoring the conditions that help people thrive.

Join leaders from Alliance for Opportunity, American Enterprise Institute, and Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity for a half-day session focused on how a human flourishing agenda is being translated into effective policy change and real opportunities for families.

đź“… August 24 | 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
đź“Ť SPN Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL (JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes)

Save My Seat

Please note: Space is limited, so we encourage you to register as soon as possible. While registration for this specific session is free, you must be registered for SPN Annual Meeting in order to gain entry.

Why this session is a must-attend for state leaders

For too long, policy conversations have focused on managing circumstances rather than expanding opportunity for low-income Americans.

Now, a growing number of states are charting a different path—one that prioritizes work, family stability, and upward mobility. These efforts are demonstrating that a human flourishing agenda isn’t just theoretical. It’s achievable.

This session will highlight the progress underway and the policy ideas poised to strengthen opportunity, reduce dependency, and expand pathways to dignity, purpose, and self-sufficiency. SPN Annual Meeting attendees are invited to attend and connect with this emerging work, as well as the leaders driving it forward.

What to Expect

The conversations will feature real-world examples of state reforms in action, strategic insights from leaders on the ground, and opportunities to ask questions and explore how this work applies in your state.

You’ll leave armed with actionable policy priorities on a range of topics:

  • Modernizing workforce systems
  • Reforming safety net programs
  • Advancing housing policies that support family formation
  • Strengthening protections for vulnerable children
  • A clear framework for advancing a human flourishing agenda in your own state

Session agenda:
Monday, August 24, 2026

8:00 a.m. Breakfast Opens
8:30–9:30 a.m. A Principled Vision for Human Flourishing: From Ideas to Action
9:30–10:30 a.m. Governor’s Workforce Modernization Blueprint: One Door to Work
10:30–11:30 a.m. Setting Up Our Safety Net for the Future: Addressing Benefit Cliffs and Accountability
11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Lunch
12:00–1:00 p.m. Family in My Backyard: Building Starter Homes for American Families
1:00-2:00 p.m. Noise or Signal: How Better Decisions in the Child Welfare System Protect Children

Register Here

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Registration: To attend this pre-conference session, attendees must also be registered for State Policy Network’s Annual Meeting. An SPN Annual Meeting badge will be required to gain entry to this session.

Travel Dates: Attendees should book flights to arrive on Sunday, August 23.

Hotel: A conference group rate is available through the host hotel for SPN’s Annual Meeting, the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes. The SPN group rate is $279/night plus taxes and daily $40 resort fee. This rate is valid until Friday, July 31. It is subject to availability and not guaranteed. See booking information and additional hotel options.

Questions: Please contact Kelsey Underwood at [email protected].