Volume 3 | Issue 9
May 8, 2026
A publication of the National Grange
Together we grow: Leaders gather in Nevada for annual conference by Philip J Vonada
National Grange Communications Director
Nearly 70 Grange leaders from across the country, with another dozen plus joining virtually, came together May 1–3 in Sparks, Nevada, for the 2026 National Grange Leaders’ Conference, a weekend focused on strengthening leadership, sharpening strategy, and preparing the organization for the future. Held at the Nugget, this year’s conference centered on the theme “Together We Grow,” bringing that idea to life through a carefully designed agenda that balanced big-picture vision with practical, hands-on tools. Throughout the weekend, leaders were challenged to think boldly about the future of the Grange while remaining grounded in its mission of grassroots service and advocacy. Sessions throughout the weekend explored what it means to lead and serve in a rapidly changing environment. Conversations on rebranding, evolving with purpose, and understanding the “new leadership landscape” encouraged attendees to consider how the Grange can remain relevant and impactful in communities of all sizes. The “Toolbox Series” offered tangible strategies leaders can take home — from strategic planning and team-building to responsible use of artificial intelligence and maintaining resilience in leadership roles.
Importantly, the conference emphasized that no Grange works in isolation. Discussions across the weekend created space for leaders to share State and Community Grange successes and challenges, reinforcing the idea that progress happens best when ideas are shared and adapted, not reinvented. Sessions focused on engaging families, supporting youth involvement, and building sustainable programs highlighted the Grange’s continued commitment to growing strong communities from the ground up. As the conference concluded, one message stood out clearly: the work does not end when attendees return home. The value of the Leaders’ Conference lies in what happens next. Grange members are encouraged to connect with their State Grange Presidents and leadership teams to learn more about the ideas, tools, and strategies presented during the conference — and to begin putting them into action in their own communities. From strengthening membership efforts and launching new programs, to refining how your Grange tells its story, the insights from this weekend are meant to be shared, adapted, and implemented. Together, we grow. Together, we lead the way forward.
In This Issue Together we grow: Leaders gather in Nevada for annual conference . . . . . 1 Is Your Grange Protected? . . . . . . . . . 2 Grange Store Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Grange Heirloom for May . . . . . . . . . . 2 Connecticut member awarded Ernestine Keiser Memorial Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Handprints on Potholders Project: A Share Your Project’s Story . . . . . . . . 4 Tell the Grange Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Celebrate 160 in Broken Arrow . . . . . 5 Hamp Watch: Where is our National Grange President? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 7 Frugal Gardening Tips & Tricks . . . . 8 Celebrate America250 with the Grange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Recipes from the Heartland . . . . . . . . 9 Grange Member Benefit: Wyndham Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Grange Store: Veteran Recognition Pin “The Grange and You” . . . . . . . . . . . 10
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