2026 CAAP SUMMIT
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Efficiency with Empathy
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Where Innovation Meets Humanity
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2026 CAAP SUMMIT • Efficiency with Empathy • Where Innovation Meets Humanity •
AI is here. Burnout is real.
And you deserve solutions that address both.
Join us in Harrisburg for the Summit experience your staff will be talking about all year.
AI is reshaping how work gets done. This summit focuses on using technology to simplify systems, reduce burnout, and create space for compassion. You will learn how to use AI and other tech tools while creating supportive, psychologically safe workplaces grounded in human connection.
May 20-21, 2026
Efficiency with Empathy.
Where Humanity Meets Innovation
In Human Services, efficiency can sometimes feel like it comes at the expense of humanity. As we work to stretch every dollar and meet growing needs, we can’t ignore the human cost, on the people we serve and the people doing the work.
As artificial intelligence reshapes how daily operations get done, we have an opportunity — not to replace the human touch, but to protect it.
Efficiency with Empathy brings together leaders, managers, and frontline staff for two days of learning, connection, and practical strategy. Together, we’ll explore how AI and emerging technologies can simplify systems, reduce burnout, and create more space for what matters most: people.
You’ll leave with real-world implementation tools, leadership practices that foster psychologically safe workplaces, and a clearer vision for how innovation can strengthen — not dilute — our mission.
Innovation should never come at the expense of compassion. It should make room for more of it.
Meet Your Keynote Speaker:
Smiley Poswolsky
As AI and emerging technology reshape the landscape of human services, the leaders face a defining challenge: how do we harness these powerful tools while keeping human connection at the center of our work?
In this keynote, workplace culture expert Smiley Poswolsky offers a timely and practical exploration of how organizations can cultivate belonging, trust, and engagement in an era of rapid change — empowering staff and leaders alike to show up more fully for the communities they serve. Drawing on compelling data and real-world examples, Smiley delivers an actionable toolkit for building cultures of connection that strengthen teams, deepen relationships, and ultimately drive greater impact in the fight against poverty.
This year’s Summit explores how technology, leadership, and thoughtful systems design can reduce burnout, simplify processes, and strengthen impact.
Together, we’ll examine how to harness innovation without losing sight of what matters most: our people.
Best Western Premier
The Central Hotel & Conference Center
Harrisburg, PA
Reserve your room by April 21 to take advantage of the special rate!
The 2026 CAAP Summit will be held at the Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center, a full-service conference venue conveniently located just minutes from downtown Harrisburg and Harrisburg International Airport. Known for its spacious meeting facilities, modern amenities, and comfortable accommodations, the hotel offers an ideal setting for connection, learning, and collaboration. On-site dining, complimentary parking, and thoughtfully designed gathering spaces make it easy for attendees to focus on what matters most: engaging with peers and shaping the future of human services together.
Sponsor the Summit of the Year
Efficiency with Empathy is where leadership, innovation, and mission meet. As a sponsor, you’ll gain high-impact exposure, meaningful engagement opportunities, and the chance to support a statewide network dedicated to strengthening communities.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Register Now!
Join hundreds of professionals to exchange ideas, gain new tools, and shape the future of human services.
Registration for the event will close on May 7th at 5pm. Save your team’s seats today!
Schedule at a Glance
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8:30 - 10:00 am - Registration and Continental Breakfast
10:00 – 10:30 am – Welcome
10:30 – 11:45 am - Keynote
12:00 – 1:00 pm – Lunch
1:00 – 2:30 pm – Breakout Session 1
2:30 – 2:50 pm – Snack Break
2:50 – 4:20 pm – Breakout Session 2
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7:30 – 8:45 am - Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:45 – 9:00 am – Welcome
9:00 – 10:00 am – Plenary Session
10:00 – 10:20 am – Break
10:20 – 11:50 am – Breakout Session 3
11:50 – 1:00 pm– Lunch
1:00 – 2:30 pm – Breakout Session 4
2:30 – 2:40 pm – Snack Break
2:40 – 3:00 pm – Closing
A Speaker Lineup You Won’t Want to Miss
We’ve gathered an incredible group of leaders, innovators, and changemakers for the 2026 CAAP Summit. Across two days, you’ll hear from experts who are shaping the future of human services, strengthening communities, and helping organizations navigate the changing landscape of our work.
Browse exclusive apparel and Community Action–branded swag available only during the event. Whether you’re redeeming CAAP Bucks earned throughout the Summit or using our convenient cashless checkout, the CAAP Store is the perfect place to grab something fun to remember the experience.
Stock up on your favorite gear and show your Community Action pride!
Stop by the CAAP Store at the 2026 Summit!
You asked for it, and it’s back!
Use your CAAP Bucks to snag some amazing Swag at the CAAP Store.
1 CAAP Buck = $1 USD at the CAAP Store
Can be used at the CAAP Store
Earn CAAP Bucks throughout the Summit from speakers, sponsors, and CAAP staff
Start collecting and cash them in for your favorite Summit gear!