Join Us in San Diego for the Animal Welfare Philanthropy Summit: The Perfect Place to Elevate Generosity for Animals!
This winter, escape the chill and head to San Diego for the second annual Animal Welfare Philanthropy Summit, a unique gathering of philanthropy professionals working in animal welfare.
Date
February 4 - 6, 2026
Location
San Diego Humane Society at 5500 Gaines St, San Diego, CA 92110
Registration Fee
None. You read that correctly, the event is FREE but the value is PRICELESS.
Meals
Again, FREE. Thanks to our generous sponsors!
Registration has reached capacity, to add your name to the waitlist, please complete the registration form and we will reach out if there's any movement.
What You Can Expect:
Get ready for two days of inspiration, collaboration and connection. The Summit is tailored to address the unique opportunities and challenges faced by philanthropy professionals in animal welfare, and to provide participants with an opportunity to hear from industry leaders on how they are working to optimize their programs. You'll walk away with fresh insights, powerful strategies and a network of allies committed to driving change!
Why Attend?
- There is nothing else like it: This Summit is designed to bridge a gap in professional development for philanthropy professionals in animal welfare. Come be a part of this change!
- Network with industry leaders: Build meaningful connections with your peers from around the country.
- Insightful panels and workshops: You won’t hear from consultants on what they think you should do.
- Unmatched environment: Network in the warmth of San Diego, where winter feels like a distant memory!
With sessions designed to foster collaboration, strategic thinking and leadership in animal welfare, the Summit will attract professionals from across the country who are eager to sharpen their skills and engage with their peers.
Let’s elevate animal welfare together — don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
Lodging
We've confirmed a reduced rate room block at the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area, with booking through January 19, 2026, based on availability.
We're Offering Scholarships!
These will cover up to $500 in hotel fees for around 20 attendees, thanks to our incredible sponsors. To apply, complete the application by Monday, November 17. Selections will be shared by Friday, December 5.
Schedule of Events
Feb. 4, 2026
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. | Tour of San Diego Humane Society* |
| 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. | Tour of San Diego Humane Society* |
| 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Happy Hour at San Diego Humane Society |
Feb. 5, 2026
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. | Registration and Breakfast |
| 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Sessions |
| 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. | Lunch |
| 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Sessions |
| 5:30 p.m. | Dinner |
Feb. 6, 2026
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast |
| 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Sessions |
| 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. | Lunch |
| 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. | Sessions |
*Must register for tours at time of registration. Space is limited.
Featured Sessions
- "The Art of the Ask: Unleashing Major Gift Conversations"
From nervous to natural: Learn how to craft and deliver solicitations that inspire transformational giving—whether you're a team of two or twenty. - "AI Unleashed: From Buzzword to Breakthrough"
Our AI taskforce reveals what's hype, what's helpful, and how animal welfare organizations are actually using AI to work smarter (not just faster). - "Identity Crisis or Strategic Evolution? The Rebrand Diaries"
Real stories from organizations who've navigated the messy, scary, rewarding process of rebranding—what worked, what didn’t and was it worth it? - "Beyond the Thank You: Stewardship That Sticks"
Ditch the boring acknowledgment letters. Discover creative, authentic ways to make donors feel like the heroes they are—and keep them coming back. - "The Gallimaufry: Your Burning Questions Answered"
An energizing town hall where your toughest, craziest, and most practical questions meet our expert panel (and the collective wisdom of the room). - "Show & Tell: Innovation Showcase"
We’ll share innovative ideas from around the country as we explore the tactics and programs pushing animal welfare philanthropy forward. - "Planned Giving: From Zero to Hero"
Whether you're launching your first legacy society or revitalizing a dormant program, learn the building blocks and secret sauce that make planned giving programs thrive.
