VMHC Take the Leap: Embrace Change With SAVMA

Take the Leap With SAVMA at VMHC 2017 | Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference


VMHC Take the Leap: Embrace Change With SAVMA

The Volunteer Management Hybrid Conference (VMHC) brings together volunteer engagement professionals from around the world once again. The event blends global expertise with local collaboration, creating a hybrid experience unlike any other.

This year’s theme—“Take the Leap: Embrace Change”—invites us to step forward with courage, creativity, and purpose.


What Is VMHC?

VMHC began with one goal: to make professional learning accessible to every volunteer engagement professional (VEP). Each October, VEPs gather at local host sites, like SAVMA’s Tucson location, to watch international speakers, engage in small-group discussions, and share practical insights.

Unlike traditional conferences, VMHC combines live global sessions with facilitated local reflection. It connects nearly 50 sites across the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Participants explore new ways to lead, inspire, and adapt—together.


The 2017 Theme: Take the Leap

Change is constant in volunteer program management. Technology evolves. Volunteer motivations shift. Community needs grow.

Take the Leap: Embrace Change” challenges us to meet these changes with confidence. It asks:

  • How do we innovate without losing what works?

  • How do we lead when others hesitate?

  • How can we prepare volunteers—and ourselves—for what’s next?

By “taking the leap,” we commit to growth. We replace fear with curiosity. We move from maintaining programs to transforming them.


SAVMA’s Role in VMHC and Why It Matters

SAVMA first joined VMHC in 2016 during our “Wildest Dreams” launch. The conference is already a cornerstone of our professional community.

VMHC helps us live our plan in action. Volunteer engagement is evolving. Hybrid volunteering, AI tools, and data dashboards are now everyday essentials. Taking the leap means embracing these shifts, not resisting them.

For VEPs, that looks like:

  • Leading with flexibility and clarity.

  • Measuring impact with strong data.

  • Designing inclusive, welcoming programs.

  • Building resilience during transitions.

When VEPs grow, volunteers thrive—and communities follow.

  • Using data to tell your story.

  • Creating influence within organizations.

  • Building leadership confidence.

  • Now, embracing change with courage.

Speakers from across the world share practical tools and real stories that move us from ideas to results. Many SAVMA members trace their biggest breakthroughs—new programs, promotions, and partnerships—to this event.


What to Expect at the SAVMA Host Site

SAVMA’s local VMHC event blends global knowledge with local networking.

You’ll experience:

  • Global Speakers: Expert-led sessions streamed live.

  • Local Learning: Guided discussions and activities focused on Southern Arizona’s unique challenges.

  • Networking: Meet peers who share your goals and understand your realities.

  • Action Steps: Leave with templates, ideas, and next steps ready to apply.

The energy is contagious. You’ll feel inspired, equipped, and connected.


The SAVMA Advantage

SAVMA exists to promote excellence in volunteer program management. VMHC reflects this mission perfectly.

As a member, you’ll receive:

  • Discounted registration.

  • Exclusive post-conference sessions.

  • Peer support to help you implement what you learn.

Our network helps you turn insights into action long after the conference ends.


Continuous Growth Starts Here

VMHC isn’t just an event—it’s a mindset. It reminds us that leadership requires constant learning. SAVMA fosters that same spirit through every program we offer.

From our Volunteer Awards to our professional development workshops, we’re building a culture that values curiosity, skill, and shared success. Together, we’re raising the standard for volunteer engagement in Southern Arizona and beyond.


Join Us and Take the Leap

This is your year to jump in.

Join SAVMA and hundreds of peers at VMHC 2017: Take the Leap—Embrace Change.
Come ready to grow, connect, and reimagine what’s possible.

Be bold. Be curious. Be part of the movement.


SPACE IS LIMITED Register Now!!!!!

Hosted by Dana Cory Litwin, CVA
Session Topics & Speakers:
Barbara Harrington, Sponsorships Plus: Overcoming the Challenges in Change
Carol Dixon, Providence Health Care:  Navigating Organizational Change
Andy Fryar, OzVPM: Change in Your Professional Career
Erin Spink:  The Pending Changes in Society

SAVMA Member Sven Olson of Agape Hospice will facilitate local engagement and deliver his famous presentation on Self Care for Mortals.

Sponsored by:

Better Impact: Take the Leap (Archive)

AL!VE – Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement

Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada (VMPC)

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