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WhatWorks 2026 is coming to Panama! – August 2025 – English 

WhatWorks 2026: Bridging the Americas in Panama

 

Since 2013, the What Works Conference has been the place where community leaders, changemakers, and volunteers from across the Americas come together to share what truly works in building stronger, more resilient communities. And in 2026, we’re taking it to the next level in Panama City, Panama – January 28–31, 2026. 

This year’s theme, “Bridging the Americas: Connecting Communities,” celebrates Partners of the Americas’ unique approach to bringing the right mix of people to the table – from volunteers and grassroots leaders to governments, NGOs, universities, and development professionals. Together, we’ll explore how to match resources, knowledge, and passion with the real needs of communities. 

✨ Why You Can’t Miss It 

Over three days, you’ll: 
✅ Learn fresh strategies, solutions, and best practices through interactive sessions and workshops. 
✅ Network with peers from across the hemisphere to co-create meaningful, long-lasting impact. 
✅ Get inspired by stories of grassroots leaders and volunteers taking charge of change in their own communities. 
✅ Experience authentic cross-cultural collaboration that breaks barriers across geography and social classes. 

📍 Where It’s Happening 

The 2026 conference will be hosted at the inspiring Ciudad del Saber (City of Knowledge) – a hub for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange in Panama. 

👥 Who Will Be There? 

Expect to connect with: 

  • Volunteers & Chapter Leaders 
  • Civil Society Organization Representatives 
  • International Development Practitioners 
  • Government Leaders 
  • Community Changemakers 
  • Scholars & Students 

Be Part of the Movement 

Whether you’re just starting out on your journey to create change or you’re an experienced leader looking for new ideas and collaborations, WhatWorks 2026 is your chance to join a powerful community committed to making a difference. 

  • 📩 For more information or questions, reach out to: partnersevents@partners.net 
  • ✨ Mark your calendars – Panama, January 28–31, 2026. Let’s bridge the Americas together. 

 

Recap 2025 —

WhatWorks 2025: Chapter Initiatives Amid Funding Shifts 

 

Lima, Peru – At a moment of uncertainty and transition, WhatWorks 2025 brought together the Partners of the Americas community to focus on three urgent goals: understanding the current funding challenges facing the organization, connecting with one another, and finding inspiration in the innovative work happening across chapters. 

By the time Partners President John McPhail opened the conference with his keynote, “WhatWorks 2025: An Essential Gathering at an Essential Time,” two of those goals were already met. A happy accident—a four-hour “Happy Hour” (thanks to a hotel miscommunication)—and a lively morning icebreaker had ensured that the more than 70 attendees were already engaged and energized. 

When McPhail spoke, he did not hold back. “We can’t help but take it personally,” he shared, referring to the criticisms international aid programs have faced in U.S. political debates. His honesty resonated deeply with the audience of volunteers, many of whom have dedicated years to building bridges across borders. 

For the next two days, participants witnessed what McPhail described best: “The chapters’ innovative solutions prove that citizen diplomacy remains a powerful force for positive change.” From creative community-driven programs to collaborative cross-border projects, chapter leaders highlighted how their work is thriving despite financial constraints and shifting policy landscapes. 

Resources: For a quick reference, members can explore session links and access presenters’ contact information through the Partners member directory. 

 

Acknowledgments 

Special recognition goes to the organizers whose dedication made WhatWorks 2025 a success: 

  • Will Webber, Associate Director, Community and Volunteer Engagement Unit 
  • Paula Sofía Villanueva, President Partners–Peru/Texas & International Board 
  • Paul Rivera, President [Chapter Name] 
  • Iliana Díaz, then President, Texas/Peru 
  • Pati Ferguson, Texas/Peru Chapter & International Board 

Their efforts, along with the collective spirit of the Partners community, ensured that the gathering was not only an exchange of ideas but also a reaffirmation of commitment to citizen diplomacy. 

✍️Information provided by: Cathy Healy, International Board, Partners–Colorado 

 

Presentations at the 2025 What Works Conference 

Education and Youth Development 

Community Volunteerism 

Strengthening Partnerships and Dialogue