Human Networks: Laying a foundation for regional resilience

On Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 4:30pm, join Metro for a conversation with multidisciplinary experts and community practitioners about how social forces will shape our region in the next 50 years.

2026 is a threshold moment. Trust in institutions is declining. Society's relationship to technology is evolving and impacting how people connect. Wealth inequality and political polarization destabilize communities. When neighbors no longer inhabit the same social spaces, it can feel as though they live in different realities.

Panelists will explore what they hope to learn from emerging patterns and how the region might better prepare for the future by asking: What if human networks and our relational capacity are the foundation of regional resilience over the next 50 years?

The discussion will be moderated by Rachel Hatch, chief impact officer at Institute for the Future.

This event will take place in-person at Metro Regional Center, 600 NE Grand Ave., Portland, OR 97232. There is a virtual option available as well.

To register for this panel (and other panels as well), visit Metro’s registration page.

Context:

As part of the Future Vision project, Metro is convening several expert panels this year for the region to learn together from experts about themes and topics that will shape the Future Vision and our region in the next 50 years. The hope is to set the table to collaborate with cities, counties, communities, individuals and organizations across greater Portland to build a shared vision for the future.