FRIDAY, NOV 14
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
Grounded in our values and guided by a new strategy, CCL is pushing climate action forward.
What to expect
Equip yourself to be an effective climate advocate in the current political landscape.
Learn the policy details of permitting reform, a critical component of America’s clean energy future.
Reconnect with CCL’s values and unique culture, so you’re ready to carry our new strategy forward.
Program Overview
SATURDAY, NOV 15
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
i For Zoom information, expand the breakout details.
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. If you would like to support our work, including the virtual conference in December, you can make a 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 or make an additional donation to Citizens’ Climate Education our 501(c)(3) [tax deductible] when you complete your registration.
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, .
Am I required to attend the conference if I plan to lobby during the fall?
You are not required to attend the conference on November 14-15 in order to lobby, but participating in the conference may help you with your lobbying and outreach efforts. You can find out more about training for the Lobby Days (which are separate from this conference) on the Preparing For Fall Conference & Lobby Week CCL Community training page.
Does my registration for the conference include the virtual lobby days?
No, it doesn’t include our lobby days. The process for forming lobby teams varies from district to district. Contact your local chapter leader, Congressional liaison, or state coordinator to find out the local process and availability of slots on the team, and let them know your interest in participating. All meeting team assignments, meeting plans and practice meetings for this Fall will be handled locally, similar to in-district meetings. Schedules will not be sent out by CCL Headquarters. We encourage lobby meetings to be scheduled the week of November 17-21.
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.
TECHNOLOGY
How do I connect to the virtual 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. We’ll be sending reminder emails in the week leading up to the conference with more details on how to access each session.
Getting Help in Zoom
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.
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.
Once you are in a meeting, to join a different session, you will have to leave the Zoom meeting you are currently in, and then click another “Join via Zoom” button from the program 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. You can read this support topic to learn how to turn on closed captions. If you have problems connecting, please contact our video and audio conference provider’s support site.
