October 20-23, 2026
Memphis, TN

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Join Us This Year

Cities United’s Annual Convening is a national gathering for leaders, practitioners, and partners committed to redefining public safety, reducing gun violence, and building safe, healthy, and hopeful communities for young Black men and boys.

Over the course of three days, participants will engage in powerful learning experiences, exchange proven strategies, and build partnerships under the theme of “Seizing the Moment: Enhancing the Public Safety Ecosystem.” 

‍We invite you to join us in Memphis as we equip jurisdictions with the tools needed to advance from learning to leadership.

Summary of the Past Year

site visits

Site visits are a vital part of our convening, they allow our network members to dive deeper into our host city and connect with local community-based partners leading the work. Atlanta has so many community partners working to create safe, healthy and hopeful communities, and we've curated a diverse group that touches every corner of the ecosystem. Check out each of the five sites for a deeper understanding and an opportunity to engage.
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Center for Civic Innovation

Center for Civic Innovation

Website
The Center for Civic Innovation (CCI) mission is to inform and strengthen local public policy in Atlanta by improving public engagement and investing in community-designed interventions. During this site visit, participants will learn more about CCI's unique, equity-centered model, as they engage with our community of leaders (or good troublemakers, as we like to call them).
The IVYY Project at Grady

The IVYY Project at Grady

Website
The IVYY Project is a hospital based violence intervention at Grady Hospital. The IVYY Project aims to address the cycle of violence by offering comprehensive support and resources to people who have been affected by violence at Atlanta’s only Level 1 Trauma Center.
Policing Alternatives & Diversion (PAD) Initiative

Policing Alternatives & Diversion (PAD) Initiative

Website
PAD is a nationally recognized non-profit that dispatches community first responders to address common quality-of-life concerns in Atlanta. Our mission is to reduce arrest and incarceration for people experiencing extreme poverty, problematic substance use, or unmet mental health needs, and increase the accessibility of supportive services in Atlanta and Fulton County.
Helping Empower Youth! (HEY!) Atlanta

Helping Empower Youth! (HEY!) Atlanta

Website
Helping Empower Youth provides essential services to Black youth in Atlanta. By ensuring basic human needs are met, the opportunities for academic and economic opportunity and mobility abound. Utilizing STE(A)M and entrepreneurial endeavors, youth gain critical thinking and soft skills while earning income and learning how to scale businesses.‍
City of Refuge

City of Refuge

Website
In 2003, after months of searching for a facility, City of Refuge was miraculously donated a sprawling warehouse complex in the heart of 30314, and opened its doors to the community. From this new hub, the community began to seek more than food and shelter. They asked City of Refuge for help getting into recovery centers, to serve as advocates in court, and for job training and vocational skills. When they asked City of Refuge for something it could not provide, City of Refuge collaborated with other organizations that could. ‍
FAQs
When is Cities United 13th Annual Convening?
This year's convening will be held October 20-23, 2026 in Memphis, TN.
What can I expect from Convening?
Attendees can expect a dynamic experience that includes plenary sessions, breakout discussions, peer learning opportunities, site visits, One City Basketball game, Sneaker Ball and Awards Gala and meaningful networking designed to highlight what’s working across our network.
What if i want to just attend the sneaker ball?
Tickets for the Sneaker Ball and Awards Ceremony are available for $75. This is a great way to celebrate our work and time together for those who may not be available for the full slate of programming.
How do I register?
Registration is available through the official Convening link. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with next steps and event updates.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
Some registration transfers may be permitted through October 5, 2026. Sponsored registrations will require approval for transfer. Approval requests should be sent to convening@citiesunited.org
How do I indicate dietary restrictions or ADA needs?
You will have the opportunity to share dietary restrictions and accessibility needs during registration. Our team is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive experience for all attendees. If you forget to include this information during registration you can email the details to convening@citiesunited.org
Can I request a refund?
In our ongoing commitment to satisfaction and excellence, we offer a straightforward refund policy. We can offer refunds for registrations until September 1st. Please send inquiries about refunds to convening@citiesunited.org
How will I receive updates before the event?
All important updates will be shared via email and through the official event app, Whova. Please ensure your registration email is accurate to receive timely communications.
Are guests allowed to attend?
This is a curated convening experience. Attendance is limited to registered participants unless otherwise specified.
Who do I contact with additional questions?
For any logistical inquiries regarding the conference not covered in the FAQ, kindly contact convening@citiesunited.org and our team will gladly provide assistance.
Who should attend?
This convening is designed for leaders across the Cities United network, including mayors, elected and appointed officials, jurisdiction leaders, young leaders, community-based organizations, nonprofit partners, practitioners, and advocates committed to advancing safe, healthy, and hopeful communities for young Black men and boys.
What if i want to just attend the sneaker ball?
Tickets for the Sneaker Ball and Awards Ceremony are available for $75. This is a great way to celebrate our work and time together for those who may not be available for the full slate of programming.
When should I plan to arrive?
We are encouraging attendees to plan to arrive on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 20th and depart on the afternoon of Friday, October 23rd. This will allow you to maximize the learning, experiential, and networking opportunities.
How much is registration?
The registration fee for this year's convening isfor general conference attendees. Young Leader  (attendees under 24 years of age) registration will cost $175. 

This ticket grants access to the complete programming of our 13th Annual Convening to include Plenaries, Breakout Sessions, ExhibitionHall, Site Visits, Networking Events, and Sneaker Ball and Awards Gala.
What costs am I responsible for?
Attendees are responsible for arranging and covering their own travel, ground transportation and lodging for the 13th Annual Convening. To support your planning, we will provide a list of recommended lodging at a later date. Attendees are also responsible for the registration fee and any meals not provided at the conference.
What are my payment options?
For registration costs, you may pay via credit/debit card or ACH transfer. Group payment (5 individuals or more) we can produce an invoice. Please submit this form to request an invoice.
What should I wear?
Business casual attire is recommended for all sessions. The Sneaker Ball and Awards Gala is a formal event. Sneakers are preferred, but not required.
What is the event app and how do I access it?
The event app is Whova and it will provide access to the agenda, session sign-ups, and real-time updates. Instructions will be shared prior to the Convening.
For any logistical inquiries regarding the conference not covered in the FAQ, kindly contact convening@citiesunited.org and our team will gladly provide assistance.
Ignite change and support our vision of creating safe, healthy, and hopeful communities for young Black men and boys and their families.  Our mission is not merely to convene but to equip cities with the tools, knowledge, and network to redefine a safer, healthier, and more hopeful future. We invite you to stand with us.
sponsorship
Deck
We cordially invite local, state, and national media outlets to register for a media pass and cover the significant discussions at the 10th Annual Cities United Convening. Witness firsthand the pivotal strategies and solutions being presented to create safety in our communities. Please fill out the linked media pass registration form.