Valparaiso Community Conference
Schedule
Thu Apr 23 2026 at 10:00 am to 03:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Harre Union | Valparaiso, IN
About this Event
The City of Valparaiso invites the community to attend the second-ever Valparaiso Community Conference. This year, the Conference is focused on sharing practical tools and ideas that participants can use to make a meaningful impact in their neighborhoods and across the community. The event is open to all ages and backgrounds.
Agenda
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:20 AM
Welcome
Host: Mayor Jon Costas
🕑: 10:20 AM - 11:35 AM
Reading the Room: Building Meaningful Connections (Keynote Workshop)
Host: Mitch Isaacs, Shafer Leadership Academy
Info: Making meaningful connections doesn’t require being the loudest person in the room—it requires awareness. This interactive session helps participants learn how to read the nonverbal cues that shape every interaction, from who feels open to conversation to when it’s time to move on. Using real-life examples, humor and audience participation, attendees will leave with practical tools to engage more confidently, connect more intentionally and participate more fully in their communities.
🕑: 11:35 AM - 12:30 PM
Sparking Connections Lunch
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:45 PM
Smarter Services for a Stronger Valpo
Host: Steve Poulos, City of Valparaiso
Info: Discover how Valpo is modernizing city services to make everyday interactions faster, clearer and more accessible for residents.
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:45 PM
Native Plants at Home
Host: Steve Martinson, Valpo Parks Horticulture
Info: Learn simple native planting tips from the Valpo Parks horticulture team and discover how green choices at home can make a positive environmental impact.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Safe & Connected: How Police and Fire Partner with the Community
Host: Fire Chief Chad Dutz
Info: Hear from Valpo Police and Fire on how to build strong partnerships that enhance safety, trust and quality of life in every neighborhood.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
It Starts in Your Neighborhood
Host: Maggie Clifton, City of Valparaiso
Info: Explore the grants and resources available to neighborhood groups—and why organizing your block can spark real, positive change right where you live.
Where is it happening?
Harre Union, 1509 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 25.00













