Create Better Health & Basic Needs Conference
Featuring: Community Action Symposium & NourishTank Student Competition
December 1–3, 2026
Utah Valley University, Clarke Building
800 W University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84058
Join practitioners, educators, students, and community leaders to advance food security, nutrition education, and basic needs innovation across Utah.
Registration
Agenda
About the Conference
The Create Better Health & Basic Needs Conference brings together professionals, students, and community leaders working to address food insecurity and strengthen basic needs systems.
This multi-day event includes:
- A Food Security Symposium and Showcase
- A student innovation competition (NourishTank)
- Professional development trainings
- Networking and collaborative learning experiences
Whether you are working in Extension, higher education, healthcare, or community leadership, this conference offers actionable strategies and meaningful connections.
Conference Schedule Overview
December 1: Food Security Symposium & Basic Needs Showcase
A dynamic day focused on food security, collaboration, and innovation.
Featured Events:
- Food Security Symposium
- Poster Session
- Lightning Talks
- Keynote Speaker
- NourishTank Student Competition
- Immersive Experience
December 2–3: Skills Training Sessions
Hands-on trainings and breakout sessions led by experts (topics coming soon).
Planned Features:
- Breakout skill-based training sessions
- Panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Cooking demonstration sessions
Location & Venue
Utah Valley University - CB Building
800 W University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84058
Located on the west side of campus, just north of the 800 South entrance
Meals & Amenities
- Food vouchers for campus dining provided
- Networking spaces throughout the venue
Registration
Registration will open soon. Participants will select:
- Full Conference (Days 1–3)
- Symposium Only (Day 1)
- Skills-based Workshops Only (Days 2–3)
Keynote Speaker Details
Partner Booth Registration
Student & Faculty Poster Sessions
NourishTank Student Competition
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend?
- Extension Staff and Faculty
- Students
- Mentors and Community Leaders
- Create Better Health Employees
- Food Security Leadership
- Healthcare Workers
- Community Health Workers
- Student Support Professionals
- Basic Needs Practitioners
What are the nearby lodging options?
- Hampton Inn & Suites Orem (0.3 miles - 15 minute walk / 2 minute drive)
- Holiday Inn Express Orem-North Provo (0.4 miles - 20 minute walk / 3 minute drive)
- Comfort Inn & Suites Orem-Provo (0.4 miles - 23 minute walk / 3 minute drive)
- La Quinta Inns & Suites by Wyndham Orem University Parkway (0.4 miles - 30 minute walk / 3 minute drive)
- Courtyard by Marriott Orem University Place (1.7 miles - 7 minute drive)
Where should I park?
- Parking is available right outside the building.
What if I need accommodations?
- Accommodations can be requested during registration.
- Accessible parking is available.
- Mamava Pods are available.
- All-gender restrooms are available.
- Service animals are welcome.
Can I use public transportation?
- UTA and FrontRunner routes serve UVU.
- A bus stop is located directly next to the venue.