Charlotte’s inspiring journey from last place in economic mobility to a rising city of opportunity sets the stage for a landmark gathering of Community Action leaders.
Charlotte, NC – September 4, 2025 – The Southeastern Association of Community Action Agencies (SEACAA) will convene its 2025 Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, October 14–17, with Charlotte Area Fund (CAF) proudly serving as host. This premier gathering will bring together leaders, advocates, and practitioners from across the Southeast dedicated to advancing economic mobility, equity, and opportunity for individuals and families in need.
Collectively, SEACAA’s member agencies serve more than 15 million people annually across the Southeast through vital programs that strengthen communities—ranging from workforce development and financial empowerment to housing assistance, health initiatives, and early childhood education.
The SEACAA Annual Conference represents eight states and 181 agencies. Executive directors, board members, business managers, project managers, and team members attend from across the southeast region to learn more about creating and operating high-quality community action agencies.
“Charlotte Area Fund is honored to host this important conference at such a pivotal time,” said Nick Wharton, President & CEO of Charlotte Area Fund. “Community Action Agencies are the backbone of opportunity in the Southeast. By standing together, sharing solutions, and strengthening partnerships, we ensure that millions of people have access to the resources they need to move from poverty to prosperity.”
This year’s conference theme, “Resilient in Action: Strengthening Communities, Empowering People,” will highlight innovative approaches to poverty reduction, celebrate successful community partnerships, and address pressing challenges facing Community Action Agencies. Attendees will engage in workshops, panels, and networking sessions designed to equip agencies with new tools to expand impact.
“We are thrilled to bring the SEACAA Annual Conference to Charlotte this year and are deeply grateful to Charlotte Area Fund for serving as our host agency,” shared James Williams, President of the Board of Directors, SEACAA.
“Charlotte’s story of resilience and its commitment to advancing economic mobility reflect the very heart of Community Action. Together, we look forward to equipping our member agencies with new tools, strengthening partnerships, and amplifying the impact of the 181 agencies we represent across the Southeast.”
As Charlotte continues to tackle long-standing challenges around economic mobility—once ranked last among the nation’s 50 largest cities just a decade ago and now rising to 38th—the SEACAA Conference provides a vital platform to showcase innovative solutions and the transformative work of organizations like Charlotte Area Fund, which has been empowering Mecklenburg County residents for more than 60 years.
Commissioner Mark Jerrell will welcome SEACAA attendees, sharing: “As we gather with leaders from across the Southeast, I am inspired by the opportunity to highlight Charlotte’s commitment to equity, economic mobility, and community empowerment. I look forward to helping kick off this important event and celebrating the impact of Community Action in changing lives.”
Call to Action
Community Action relies on the support of public officials, business leaders, and concerned citizens. Now more than ever, we call on policymakers, funders, and community partners to advocate for and invest in the programs that fuel self-sufficiency and strengthen families.
For more information about the SEACAA Annual Conference and to learn how you can support the work of Charlotte Area Fund, please visit www.charlotteareafund.org or www.seacaa.org. Download this press release here.
Media Contact: DeAnne Wingate | Charlotte Area Fund | 312.399.3211
• • •