March 2026 Newsletter

Growing a shared future at the Urban Ag Conference 

A sold out crowd of growers, educators, advocates, and neighbors from across the region gathered at East High School on Saturday, March 21 for the 2026 Rochester Urban Agriculture Conference—a full day of learning, connection, and hands-on skill‑building to advance a more just, resilient local food system.

Read all about it.

Annual Speak Life! Health Equity Conference returns April 16 

The annual Speak Life! Health Equity Conference will be held Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Monroe Community Hospital auditorium. Tickets are $35 and on sale now and include breakfast and lunch. 

The conference convenes community members, clinicians, advocates, and public health leaders to advance healing, equity, and culturally grounded solutions across the Finger Lakes region. A special panel discussion will bring together local leaders and community members to discuss their observations of community needs right now, and the ways in which organizations and individuals are innovating and adapting to meet those needs. And new this year: culturally relevant music and dance performances to promote overall health and well-being.

Learn more about this special event and reserve your spot.

Substance use summit offers families a chance to learn, share, and connect

Join the Monroe County Department of Public Health for a powerful, family‑friendly day of learning, connection, and support around substance use. This summit brings teens, parents, caregivers, educators, and community members together to learn, share, and find resources.

What to expect:

• Teen‑focused sessions
• Panel discussion with local experts
• Community resources and support
• Stories of lived experience and hope
• Support for substance use‑related loss
• Education on substances, trends, prevention, and addiction
• Free lunch & T‑shirt for the first 250 registrants
• Giveaways and raffle prizes

Be part of the conversation—bring your family, bring a friend, and help build a healthier community. The event is free but registration is required. 

Register now.

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In the headlines

Rochester First, Rochester Urban Agriculture Spring Conference teaches community about sustainable options

Finger Lakes Times, BCC webinar to focus on clinical trials

Greater Rochester Chamber, Breast Cancer Coalition Announces Webinar on Finding & Accessing Clinical Trials

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