I hope you’re doing well!
In June 2026, I will be attempting the Presidential Traverse in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. My goal isn't just to complete the hike–with my agile but aging body–but to raise money for a cause I’m passionate about: climate action. As a Vermont Chapter leader for Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL), I see the impact that volunteers can make on policy and the financial needs of this work.
️ The Cause: Empowering the Next Generation
Over the past year, I've been inspired by the energy of our younger members. They've shown up to staff informational tables at the farmers' market in the pouring rain and blistering heat. When they have taken leadership roles in our meetings with members of Congress, the dynamic changes. They aren't just talking about policy; they are fighting for their future. And I have heard them speak passionately in front of hundreds of people about why we need to take action to build a livable future.
Continuing these activities requires funding. It can cost up to several hundred dollars to participate in tabling events where we do some of our most important outreach. A group of us are traveling to Washington in July 2026, and we would like to bring as many youth as possible. The trip can cost well over $1,000 for transportation and lodging.
The Challenge: The Presidential Traverse
The Presidential Traverse is a 21 mile fourteen-hour hike (if I'm lucky!) across the highest peaks in the Northeast. I've been wanting to do it for several years and have been lifting weights and training diligently to condition my knees and ankles for a hike of this length. Last summer, I began to feel stronger on shorter hikes and am hoping that my aging body will carry me through this effort.
How You Can Help
Every dollar you give goes directly to outreach efforts and to supporting young people in attending CCL’s Washington, DC, Lobbying Day and National Conference in July. In 2025, hundreds of CCL volunteers from across the country held over 400 meetings with Congressional members in one day.
Every donation of $100 or more earns you 12 home-baked chocolate chip cookies. And I take my cookies nearly as seriously as my clean energy work!
It has been a rough year for climate activism, and many environmental groups have been less active on federal policy. Citizen's Climate Lobby, however, has continued to engage, which is one of the major reasons I’m proud to be part of this organization. CCL has continued to shape and advocate for non-partisan legislation that is laser-focused on reducing pollution, slowing the overheating of our planet, and curbing rising energy costs.
Thank you so much for considering a donation to Vermont’s CCL Chapter and for supporting my trek through the highest peaks in the Northeast.