The energy in Miami this year was undeniable. More than 700 changemakers from across the country gathered January 5–7 for the 2026 National ALICE Summit, making it the largest gathering to date of leaders dedicated to building a brighter future for ALICE families. This year’s summit, set against Miami’s vibrant arts and cultural backdrop, was powered by 55+ sessions, attendees from 44 states, and a shared message: All workers and families deserve a fair shot — and it starts with us.
Champions from United Ways, Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, foundations, and nonprofit partners came together to deepen understanding, form new collaborations, and accelerate solutions that help ALICE families not only survive but thrive.
Who Is ALICE?
ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—represents the essential workers who keep every community running yet struggle to afford basic necessities. They often earn above the federal poverty level but below a sustainable cost of living, placing them one unexpected expense away from financial crisis.
These are childcare workers, home health aides, delivery drivers, retail clerks, and countless others whose stability forms the backbone of thriving communities.
United Way’s ALICE research measures the true cost of living and drives more informed strategies, policies, and systems that support hardworking families.
United Way of Greater Nashville Shows Up Strong
United Way of Greater Nashville was out in full force, with a 17‑member team representing Marketing & Communications, Community Impact, Hands On (Volunteerism), Workplace Engagement, and Senior Leadership. Our group also proudly included invited partners and panelists who elevated Nashville’s voice nationally. Their contributions added depth to conversations around early childhood, family stability, and cross‑sector collaboration—topics central to the future of Middle Tennessee families.
Key Themes from the Summit
Across three inspiring days, several themes rose to the forefront:
- System Alignment — Communities are seeking more interconnected solutions that reduce barriers and streamline support for families.
- Early Childhood Prioritization — Recognizing that ALICE stability is deeply tied to childcare access, early learning investment, and family support.
- Technology & Innovation — Leveraging data, digital tools, and scalable solutions to reduce gaps in care and access.
- Workplace Strategies — Employers are increasingly investing in employee wellbeing, financial stability initiatives, and flexible benefits that reflect the realities of ALICE households.
- Cross‑Sector Synergy — Meaningful change requires deep partnerships across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Emcees Tiki and Ronde Barber Bring Heart to the Movement
Once again, the summit was anchored by the unmatched energy of returning emcees Tiki and Ronde Barber—NFL legends, community advocates, and deeply committed ALICE champions.
The Barber brothers have a personal connection to the ALICE story: Raised in a single‑parent household, they watched their mother work multiple jobs to make ends meet, an experience that fuels their passion for uplifting this movement and elevating the stories of families facing similar challenges.
Their presence brought warmth, authenticity, and inspiration to the main stage.
United For ALICE highlighted their “unmatched energy and passion,” noting that their dedication helps strengthen the national ALICE mission year after year.
Looking Ahead: Nashville 2028
For the first time ever, the National ALICE Summit is coming to Nashville—January 23–25, 2028.
This is a major opportunity for our region to showcase the innovation, partnerships, and community‑driven solutions taking root across Middle Tennessee. We’ll be ready to welcome leaders from across the country with the same energy, creativity, and hospitality that define our work every day.
And the best news? Tiki and Ronde Barber will return as emcees when the National ALICE Summit comes to Nashville in 2028, bringing their signature passion and advocacy back to the stage for an unforgettable year.
More details to come — but we promise, it’s going to be big. Learn more about ALICE.