Description

How do charitable giving, volunteering, and civic engagement shape the communities where we live and work? And what can national trends and local data tell us about the future of generosity in the South Sound?

Join the Thurston County Chamber on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Saint Martin's University Norman Worthington Center in Lacey to explore these questions.

The event will feature keynote speaker Mindie Reule, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound, who will present The Generosity Effect: How Giving, Volunteering, and Civic Engagement Strengthen Our Communities.

Reule will examine national trends in charitable giving and civic participation, explore what the data reveals about the South Sound, and discuss how individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations contribute to stronger, more connected communities.

The discussion comes at a pivotal moment for philanthropy. While charitable giving remains substantial nationwide, the percentage of American households donating to charity has declined over the past two decades. At the same time, a significant intergenerational transfer of wealth presents new opportunities for communities to build lasting charitable resources.

Reule believes local businesses play a particularly important role.

"I think local business owners are some of the most generous people we see because they've built their wealth here and want to give back," Reule said.

Annual Nonprofit EXPO Connects Businesses and Community Organizations

In addition to the keynote presentation, the November Forum will feature the Chamber's annual Nonprofit EXPO, bringing together nonprofit organizations and business leaders to connect, collaborate, and learn about the services and programs strengthening the region.

Attendees can meet representatives from local nonprofits, discover opportunities to volunteer or serve on boards, and explore ways their businesses can support community causes.

The November Forum and Nonprofit EXPO is one of the Chamber's most popular annual events. Attendees and nonprofit exhibitors are encouraged to register early.

For event information or questions, please contact Jessica Houchin, Operations and Events Coordinator, at 360.357.3362 or email jhouchin@thurstonchamber.com
 

  Thank you to this month's forum sponsor: