FRIDAY, DEC. 4
Reception
Let’s get excited and have a chance to connect with other attendees before we kick off the conference.
The CCL Fall Virtual Conference
The opportunity is here. The time for action is now.
What to expect
Hear directly from D.C. insiders about the bipartisan permitting reform package moving through Congress right now.
Join advocates nationwide to take advantage of the final weeks of this legislative session, securing every climate win we can.
Train for a major grassroots mobilization in early 2027, including brand new resources to use in your community.
Program Overview
SATURDAY, DEC. 5
Virtual Conference
Join us on Zoom for conference sessions, 1 – 5 p.m. ET.
Program
Times listed are Eastern Time Zone
Friday, Nov. 14
Saturday, Nov. 15
7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Welcome Reception
Kick off your conference experience with some fun and connection! Mingle with fellow attendees, jump into breakout rooms for trivia, games, or a quick show-and-tell and get the lowdown on CCL’s Action Teams. We’ll also share a few conference logistics to get you ready for an inspiring weekend ahead.
1:00 pm-1:20 pm
Conference Opening & Welcome
Ricky will outline the theory of change and strategic approach that will drive the next chapter of CCL’s work, ensuring our advocacy can create the conditions necessary for lawmakers of both parties to support effective climate legislation.
Ricky Bradley
CCL Interim Executive Director
1:20 pm-1:40 pm
Powering the Clean Energy Future with Avi Zevin
Get an insider’s look at the nation’s clean energy transition with Avi Zevin, former White House official and clean energy policy expert. Avi will share stories from his time shaping national energy strategy including what worked, what didn’t, and what lessons can guide us forward. He’ll unpack why permitting reform is essential for climate progress, tackle concerns about fairness and fossil fuel giveaways and offer a clear-eyed view of the challenges and opportunities ahead. Come ready to be inspired and informed as we collectively strive for carbon-free, reliable, and cost-effective energy transition.
Avi Zevin
Partner, Roselle LLP, and former Special Assistant to the President for Clean Energy Implementation
1:50 pm-2:35 pm
Lobby Week Asks and Opportunities
Join CCL VP of Government Relations Jennifer Tyler and Research Manager Dana Nuccitelli as they break down the policy Asks we’ll be bringing to Congress during our Fall Lobby Week. They’ll get you up to speed with permitting reform, the Fix Our Forests Act and foreign pollution fee legislation as we seek meaningful progress in the year running up to the 2026 election. Hear the latest from Capitol Hill, what staffers are really saying, and learn how CCL’s steady presence is making a difference as other groups step back. You’ll leave ready to communicate on our preferred policy solutions with clarity and confidence.
Jennifer Tyler
CCL VP of Government Affairs
Dana Nuccitelli
CCL Research Manager
2:35 pm-3:00 pm
Fireside Chat: Climate Perspectives from The Hill
Join Ziyan Sears, Legislative Assistant for Climate & Energy to Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50), for a candid fireside chat with CCL VP of Government Relations Jenn Tyler. Ziyan will share an insider’s view on where things stand in Congress and why permitting reform and the Fix Our Forests Act (FOFA) are key to cutting emissions, strengthening communities, and making real progress now. He’ll also address common questions and concerns from other environmental groups, helping volunteers gain the clarity and confidence to communicate accurate, up-to-date information in their own lobby meetings.
Ziyan Sears
Legislative Assistant - Climate & Energy for Rep. Scott Peters (CA50)
Jennifer Tyler
CCL VP of Government Affairs
3:10 pm-4:10 pm
Breakout Sessions
More Carbon Pricing Updates from Around the World
Carbon pricing is evolving fast—and the world isn’t waiting for the U.S. to catch up. In this informative update, CCL Policy Fellow Dr. Danny Richter returns with a global tour of the latest carbon pricing developments, from the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to new initiatives in Canada, Mexico, and beyond. Discover how America’s largest trading partners are using carbon pricing to cut pollution, level the playing field, and drive clean innovation. What does it mean for U.S. policy as border adjustments and carbon efficiency take center stage? Whether you’re a policy wonk or a passionate advocate, this session will equip you with the global context and talking points you need to make the case for smart, fair carbon policy at home.
Fix Our Forests Act: From Skepticism to Support
As volunteers prepare for virtual lobby meetings with Congress, James Campbell, J.D., Director of Federal Affairs & Strategic Counsel at Megafire Action will offer expert insights on how to address common Democratic concerns around the Fix Our Forests Act (FOFA). Join for an in-depth conversation moderated by Dana Nuccitelli, CCL’s Research Manager. This session will equip you with clear, informed talking points to build understanding, find common ground, and strengthen your impact on the Hill.
Taking and Using Beautiful Photos for Climate Advocacy
Content creation isn’t just for influencers! Taking quality photos is an art that can help market your chapter and “sell” climate activism to others. In this session, CCL Director of Marketing, Elissa Tennant, will break down what takes chapter event photos from good to great, and how you can up your climate content creation game. Armed with only a cell phone camera, you’ll learn how to capture photos you can use in both chapter marketing and personal social media posts.
Bridging Divides: How Understanding Values Can Transform Climate Conversations
Ever wonder why the same facts inspire some people - and fall flat with others? Join us for an engaging Q&A with CCL’s VP of Field Operations, Brett Cease and Dr. Sena Koleva, a social scientist studying moral psychology, to learn how our values shape our intuition, what we believe, and how we connect. This interactive session previews CCL’s new “BRIDGE” program - Building Relationships in Dialogue, Growth, and Engagement - and offers practical insights for having more effective, empathetic climate conversations that build understanding and momentum for change.
4:15 pm-4:55 pm
Growing Relationships — How Volunteers Build Trust with Lawmakers
CCL’s strength has always been its people and the relationships they build. In this inspiring volunteer panel, hear firsthand stories of how patient, persistent relationship-building with Members of Congress creates real impact. From a prairie hike in Nebraska with Rep. Don Bacon to a tree-planting tribute for Sen. Debbie Stabenow in Michigan, panelists will share what it looks like when CCL’s core values come to life in the field. Learn how volunteers cultivate trust, turn shared experiences into shared purpose, and open doors for climate conversations that last. You’ll leave re-energized with practical ideas and renewed confidence that can move the needle.
Kay Carne
CCL Liaison, Rep. Bacon (NE02)
David Kunhardt
CCL Co-Liaison, Sen. King (ME)
Linda Racine
CCL Michigan State Coordinator
Mindy Ahler
CCL Congressional Liaison Program Manager
4:55 pm-5:00 pm
Closing Remarks
Ricky Bradley
CCL Interim Executive Director
Secure your spot
Frequently Asked Questions
REGISTRATION
Who is invited to attend the Fall Virtual Conference?
Everyone is invited to participate. There are many ways to contribute to the success of CCL’s mission, and we encourage those who are able to join us for this year’s Fall Virtual Conference.
How do I register?
You can register above, or go to our Eventbrite registration page.
Is there a registration fee?
No, this is a free event but, if you are able, when you register we encourage you to make a suggested donation (to Citizens’ Climate Education, 501(c)(3)) of $25 (or whatever amount feels right to you) in support of the conference.
Or, you can make a separate donation to either Citizens’ Climate Lobby our 501(c)(4) [not tax-deductible] or Citizens’ Climate Education our 501(c)(3) [tax deductible] on our website.
What should I do if I need to cancel?
Although this is a free virtual event and we plan to have space for all, we would like to have an accurate count of attendees. If you need to cancel, contact us as soon as possible by email.
Who do I contact about accommodations?
CCL is committed to providing an inclusive environment and will honor requests for interpretation services and reasonable accommodations made by individuals with disabilities. Requests can be served more effectively if notice is provided at least 10 days before the event. Direct requests to .
Can minors (those under 18 years old) participate in the virtual conference?
CCL programs are for those 13 years old or older. If you are under 13 years old, do not register. Youth between the ages of 13 and 17 may attend online events. If a call is recorded or screenshots taken for documentation purposes, minors who join by video conference are asked to remain off camera, unless they are accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or legal guardian, or if they’ve submitted a signed media release form to CCL’s address. Please see the full CCL Youth Volunteer Policy for more details.
PROGRAM & AGENDA
Where can I find the conference schedule?
We’ll be making updates to the program as we get closer to the virtual conference, so be sure to check back for the most up-to-date agenda. The program will include session titles, descriptions, and speakers. You do not have to sign up for specific sessions, you can log in to whichever session you choose the day of the conference. Video conferencing information will be made available the day of the conference. You can check back on the program page to find the access information closer to the event date.
What is the CCL Climate Advocate Lobby Training?
The Climate Advocate Lobby Training focuses on CCL’s history and methods for generating political will, and the basics of how to lobby Congress using CCL’s specific approach. The training occurs at our Summer Conference & Lobby Day, State Conferences, and when we are initiating a brand new group in a new area. This training is required to lobby with CCL. If you’re new to CCL or you have never attended this training before, please plan to attend the virtual version of the workshop on November 12th, or watch the recording.
TECHNOLOGY
What video conference platform will be used for this conference?
We’ll be using Zoom for this conference. For the best experience on Zoom, be sure to update your Zoom app to the latest version. If you have any issues connecting to Zoom or experience audio or video problems, visit the Zoom Support Help Center.
Video conference etiquette & tips:
- We suggest you use earbuds or headphones rather than your computer speakers & mic for better sound quality and reduced feedback.
- Please mute your mic when you are not speaking. All conference sessions will mute participants upon entry.
- If you have unstable internet, try to turn your video off and close all internet browsers and windows on your computer.
- Plan to restart your computer before the event begins.
How do I connect to the virtual conference sessions?
We’ll be making updates to the program as we get closer to the virtual conference, so be sure to check back for the most up-to-date agenda. The program will include session titles, descriptions, and speakers. You do not have to sign up for specific sessions, you can log in to whichever session you choose the day of the conference. On the day of the conference, Zoom connection information will be available. We recommend you keep the Program page open in your web browser so you can refer back to it, and easily switch sessions through the conference.
Click the Join via Zoom button next to the session you’d like to join. Zoom will open in your web browser, and give you the option to open the meeting in your Zoom Application if you have it downloaded.
During the breakout session time, there will be up to four breakout sessions happening concurrently on separate conference lines. You will have to Leave the Meeting you are currently in to exit one session, and then rejoin the meeting you desire by clicking the Join via Zoom button from the program section for the session you want to switch to.
If you are joining by phone, find your local number to dial: https://citizensclimate.zoom.us/u/adtOOuWWAo, or, U.S. Toll-free 1-877-369-0926 or 1-855-880-1246. Each session’s Zoom Meeting ID will be available in the program section above which you can enter when prompted on the phone.
What if I have technical issues participating virtually?
To improve audio/video quality, close all applications and other browser windows. If you have problems connecting, visit Zoom’s support site. You can read this support topic to learn how to turn on closed captions.
