MFN Gathering Information Page

Welcome to the MFN Gathering information page. Here you will find information about the location of the Gathering, who to contact if you have any questions, a program overview and agenda, frequently asked questions, and our MFN Member Travel Policy and Reimbursement Guidelines.

FAQ

Gathering Location

Location

Thompson Savannah, by Hyatt

201 Port St, Savannah, GA 31401

📝 On-Site Registration is Open:

📍 Tuesday, March 25: 12–4 p.m.

📍 Wednesday, March 26: 7:30–9:00 a.m.

Need Help? 

Contact our Gathering Coordinator, Aminata Traore, at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com 

Daily Schedule

Day 1: Tuesday, March 25

12–4 PM: Registration (Pennyworth meeting room)

5–7 PM: Welcome Reception Dinner (Sun Room, 2nd floor)

Day 2: Wednesday, March 26

7:30–9 AM: Breakfast (Argyle Ballroom) | Registration (Pennyworth meeting room)

9–10:30 AM: Welcome! Introductions to Program & People (Argyle Ballroom)

10:30–11 AM: State of MFN (Argyle Ballroom)

11 AM–12 PM: Morning Session: Frontline / Fenceline Dispatch (Argyle Ballroom)

12–1 PM: Lunch (Argyle Ballroom)

1–2:30 PM: Afternoon Panel: Lessons & Guidance for the Future (Argyle Ballroom)

2:30–3 PM: Break

3–4:30 PM: Workshops (Argyle Ballroom, Elba meeting room, Fig meeting room)

4:30–6 PM: Break

6–8 PM: “Still Here & Looking Forward!” Dinner Celebration (Argyle Ballroom)

Day 3: Thursday, March 27

7:30–9 AM:  Breakfast (Argyle Ballroom)

9–10 AM: Welcome Back! Day 1 Recap & Day 2 Preview (Ballroom)

10–11 AM: Member Engagement – Survey Results & Next Steps (Argyle Ballroom)

11 AM–12 PM: Member Engagement – Member Open Mic (Argyle Ballroom)

12–1 PM: Lunch (Argyle Ballroom)

1–2:30 PM: Workshops (Argyle Ballroom, Elba / Fig meeting rooms)

2:30–3 PM: Break

3–4:30 PM: Workshops (Argyle Ballroom, Elba / Fig / Pennyworth meeting rooms)

4:30–6 PM: Break

6–8 PM: Dinner & Closing Program (Argyle Ballroom)

Workshop Schedule & Descriptions

Wednesday, March 26

3–4:30 PM (90 minutes)

Workshops Wednesday 3/26, 3–4:30 PM

Thursday, March 27

1–2:30 PM (90 minutes)

Workshops Thursday 3/27, 1–2:30 PM

Thursday, March 27

3–4:30 PM (90 minutes)

Workshops Thursday 3/27, 3–4:30 PM

Maps of the Thompson Hotel

MFN Gathering Hotel Map First Floor
MFN Gathering Hotel Map Second Floor

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

FAQ Menu

Download a PDF of the FAQ:  English

About the Event

Where will this event be taking place?

Who should attend this event?

  • Member organizations, grassroots leaders, environmental justice advocates, and MFN partners. Each member organization may send 2 representatives.

What if I can’t attend the MFN Gathering?

  • We understand that schedules can be unpredictable. If you are unable to attend the MFN Gathering, please reach out to Aminata as soon as possible at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com and let them know about your need to cancel.
  • At this time, we are unable to accommodate substitutions, so no one else may attend in your place. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to connecting with you in other ways.

How much does it cost to attend the event?

  • There is no registration fee for MFN member organizations and invited participants. 
  • Travel and lodging support may be available—please see below and confirm during registration.
    • Grassroots Members: Hotel and transportation (airfare or train) will be covered in advance. Reimbursement is available for driving expenses and meals on travel days. Meals during the event are fully provided and paid for.
    • Other Members and Allies: Hotel is covered. You are responsible for covering your own travel expenses and booking them directly yourself. Most meals during the event will be provided

Are the meals included?

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided on program days (3/26 & 3/27). Please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration.
  • Grassroots members can submit for reimbursement for meals on travel days: (Tuesday 3/25 & Friday 3/28 only).

Communication

Need help?

  • Please contact our Gathering Coordinator, Aminata Traore, at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com

How will important announcements be shared during the event?

  • We will be making announcements and sharing updates about the gathering throughout the week via WhatsApp Broadcast. To stay informed, please ensure you have WhatsApp downloaded and installed on your mobile device before the event. (Android, iPhone)
  • We will use the cell phone number provided at registration to add you to the WhatsApp broadcast list. You will not be added to a group chat, and other attendees will not see your number. If you prefer not to receive notifications, you can opt out or mute the notifications at any time once they begin.

Program – Agenda, Attire & Weather

Will there be networking opportunities at the event(s)?

  • Yes, the program includes multiple opportunities for networking, including breakout sessions, a celebration dinner, and informal gatherings.

Where can I find more information about the event, i.e., agenda, speaker line-up, and topics?

  • Sessions include keynote speeches, panel discussions, breakout skill-share workshops, and networking opportunities. A detailed agenda and speaker lineup is shared on the website.

 

What is the dress code at these events?

  • The overall dress code for the event is casual and comfortable, with layers recommended for varying temperatures.
  • For the Dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, we encourage participants to wear something festive and comfortable to celebrate the moment.
  • For the Closing Ceremony Dinner on Thursday, March 27, 2025, we invite participants to bring a white outfit for the occasion. Please note that if wearing white isn’t possible, alternative ways to fully participate will be provided to ensure everyone feels included.

 

What weather can I expect in Savannah, Georgia, in late March 2025?

  • In late March, Savannah typically experiences mild and pleasant weather, making it an excellent time to visit. Average high temperatures are around 71°F (22°C), with lows near 49°F (9°C). Rainfall is moderate, averaging about 3.7 inches (94 mm) over approximately 7-8 days during the month. The city enjoys about 7-8 hours of sunshine daily in March.
  • For the most accurate and up-to-date weather information as your trip approaches, please refer to local forecasts. The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts for the Savannah area.
  • Please note that weather patterns can vary yearly, so it’s advisable to check the forecast closer to your travel dates for the most current information.

Does the hotel have any recreational amenities?

  • Yes! The hotel offers a pool and complimentary bikes for guests to use. If you’d like to take advantage of these amenities, be sure to bring swimwear and comfortable clothing for biking. Whether you prefer a refreshing dip or a leisurely ride around town, these options are available for you to enjoy!

Registration

On-Site 

Where do we register once at the Thompson Hotel, during what times?

  • On-Site Registration will be located outside of the Pennyworth meeting room during the following days and times:
    • Tuesday, March 25: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    • Wednesday, March 26: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Pre Event

How do I register for the event?

  • Registration details will be provided via email to member organizations and partners. Please contact our Gathering Coordinator, Aminata Traore, at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com for assistance.

I have already registered, but I don’t know how to book my travel. What should I do?

  • If you did not receive an email within 2 days of registering, please reach out to our Gathering Coordinator, Aminata Traore, at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com
    • In your email, include a phone number where she can reach you and use the subject line: “HELP! MFN Gathering” for assistance.

After completing the registration, will I receive an email confirmation?

  • Yes, you will receive a confirmation email with event details. If you do not receive this email, contact our Gathering Coordinator, Aminata Traore, at resonateglobalconsulting@gmail.com
    • In your email, include a phone number where she can reach you and use the subject line: “HELP! MFN Gathering” for assistance.

When is the deadline for registration?

  • The registration deadline is February 14, 2025.

What happens if someone registered cannot attend and their organization wants to send someone else instead?

  • If an attendee cannot attend after their registration and hotel booking are confirmed, substitutions are only possible until February 28, 2025. After this date, hotel room names cannot be changed, and any new attendee will need to secure their own accommodation. 

Please note that rooms will be subject to availability and will not be eligible for the group rate. Organizations should plan accordingly, as additional costs may apply for late substitutions or cancellations.

Travel to Venue 

How do I get to the event?

What is the closest train station?

  • Savannah Amtrak Station is approximately 15 minutes from the venue.

Is there parking on-site?

  • Yes, the Thompson Savannah offers on-site parking. Contact the venue directly for rates and availability. 
  • Located at 201 Port St., this covered parking garage is for customers only and costs $49 for 24 hours. Daytime parking costs $20.

How will I get from the airport to the hotel?

  • You will receive an individual email from Wendy Gutschow, MFN Operations Director, with your specific arrival and departure details. 
  • A van shuttle will be making rounds to provide transportation from the airport to the hotel.
  • If you are arriving earlier or later than the scheduled van rounds, Uber vouchers will be provided to cover your ride.
  • Uber vouchers are available for arrivals on March 23 and March 24 for anyone arriving before noon or after 4:00 PM.
  • Uber vouchers are available for departures on March 28 for those leaving before 8:00 AM or after 4:00 PM.
    • If you do not use Uber, you can pay for your transportation and request reimbursement.
    • You must have an Uber account to use the voucher. It will be sent to the email address where you are receiving this message.

    What if I need help with my Amtrav travel bookings?

    • Please double-check your flights, train, or driving plans and allow for any potential delays. If you need travel assistance with your flight or train reservations or have any questions, reach out to Amtrav directly.

    What are other hotels to consider for attendees that need to reserve their own rooms?

      Travel Policy and Reimbursement 

      How do I submit a reimbursement for travel day expenses (Tuesday, 3/25 & Friday, 3/28 only)?

      • Please [CLICK HERE] to review the full travel policy and reimbursement procedures. The document includes links to the necessary forms for submitting your request.
      • To expedite your reimbursement, some forms can be submitted before attending the Gathering. Be sure to review the details in advance to ensure a smooth process.

      Using Amtrav for Travel

      What is Amtrav?

      • Amtrav is the travel booking platform Moving Forward Network is using to manage travel arrangements for the March Gathering.

      How does Amtrav work for this event?

      • After completing your registration, you will receive an email with a unique link to book your travel directly through Amtrav. This ensures your travel plans are aligned with the event’s protocols and budget.

      Who is responsible for booking travel?

      • Each participant is responsible for booking their own travel using the provided Amtrav link. Detailed instructions will be included in the follow-up email.

      When is the travel booking deadline?

      • All travel must be booked no later than February 28, 2025, using the Amtrav link sent after registration.

      What if I need to change my travel arrangements?

      • You can modify your travel plans using the itinerary link provided by Amtrav after your booking is confirmed. Changes can be made automatically if no additional costs are involved. Any resulting travel credit will be returned to MFN. However, if the changes incur additional costs, you will be required to provide an explanation during the modification process. These changes must be approved by MFN before being finalized.

      What happens if I miss the booking deadline?

      • If you fail to book travel by the deadline, you will need to arrange your travel independently. Any additional costs may not be reimbursed by MFN. Booking Deadline is February 28, 2025.