Are you looking for new ideas, advice, and energy? Do you want to connect with other leaders in the nature & environmental learning center field? Join us for ANCA CONNECTS!
ANCA CONNECTS are programs where you can learn and share with leaders who face similar challenges. These events can be virtual or in person, and include both ANCA members and non-members.
CONNECTS programs are collaborative and largely discussion-based. Some CONNECTS events feature workshop-style presentations, but discussion is always included in the format.
One of ANCA’s Core Values holds that the collective wisdom and diversity of our peer network is our greatest resource; CONNECTS events reflect this by inviting all attendees to participate in the discussion and to bring their questions, challenges, and solutions to the conversation.
CONNECTS are fee-based programs; ANCA members receive discounts on registration.
The best parts of ANCA CONNECTS are the opportunity to both hear from the experiences of other nature center administrators and share ideas with each other in a supportive setting. Sometimes you feel that you are the only person facing an issue and suddenly you realize that others are wrestling with the same conundrum. Through discussion, idea-sharing and even some laughter, I can come away with different ways to look at my concerns as well as ideas for implementing solutions.
— Victoria Runnoe, Conservation Education Supervisor at Idaho Department of Fish and Game
CONNECTS TOPICS
Topics at ANCA CONNECTS programs pertain to the management of nature centers, outdoor schools, and related organizations, as well as trends in our profession.
Some CONNECTS programs bring together peers who share a common challenge or who represent a specific type of organization. Examples of peer groups include:
- Outdoor School leaders
- Governmental Center leaders
- Camp Directors
- New leaders in the field
- Leaders within a state or region
FORMAT
Virtual
Virtual CONNECTS are programs where a peer group can discuss a single topic or hold an Open Space session that covers a variety of topics.
Annual Pass
For ANCA Members we offer an Annual Pass, which simplifies registration and provides cost savings for ANCA Members who regularly attend virtual CONNECTS programs, allowing them to fully take advantage of these opportunities. The Annual Pass covers standard virtual CONNECTS programs from now to June 2025.
We offer two tiers for the pass:
- Individual ($100) — This is for individual ANCA Members (Student, Associate, Professional, or Emeritus levels), and can only be used by the individual passholder.
- Organization ($200) — This is for ANCA Organization Members. The pass may be used by any staff or board member at the organization.
Please note that the Annual Pass does not cover in-person programming, nor limited virtual CONNECTS programs that are offered in a series.
In Person
In-person CONNECTS are one-day events that provide leaders the opportunity to discuss what is happening in their region, share program updates, and network with close-by peers. Each in-person CONNECTS has a variety of sessions that attendees can choose from.
