September 26, 2025
6:30-9:30pm
Alvin Ailey Theater
405 W 55th Street
New York, NY 10019
Once Upon a Dream features the premiere of a choreographed eco-dance by Ailey student dancers, a seated dinner, and more. The event is organized by two recent Fordham University graduates who are former students of Christiana Zenner, who is in our Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology Advisory Group. They met in her Religion and Ecology class. One is a Theology major / fashion minor grad who has gone on to work with the UN Youth Climate Change program, and the other is an Alvin Ailey dancer and Environmental Studies major grad who has gone on to do choreography and event planning.
Join Care About Climate, Re-Earth Initiative, Black Girl Environmentalist, Fridays For Future USA, and Zero Hour at New York Climate Week.
Our planet is at a tipping point. 2025 is a pivotal year for countries to submit National Climate Plans that recognize our right to a clean, healthy, sustainable planet. The voices of young people who will be most impacted by climate change are being priced out of opportunities to engage in climate policy-making and steward solutions for their futures. A lot of young people want to take their climate activism to the next level but don’t know where to start and lack consistent funding to continue their advocacy long-term. This event aims to bridge that gap by equipping youth with the knowledge, networks, and resources needed to support them in working towards a climate-just future.
This inaugural gala hosted by Care About Climate, Fridays for Future USA, Re-Earth Initiative, Black Girl Environmentalist, Zero Hour, and LCOY USA, this interactive Gala will offer a chance for young climate leaders to connect with each other and with the joy that brought us to this work in the first place.
As donors, thought leaders, and allies gather during New York Climate Week, this space will showcase the resilience and leadership of youth climate organizers that have continued to show up, build power, and make change – often behind the scenes and against the odds.
Dress Code: Semi-formal Eco Fairy. Come dressed as your most enchanted self. Upcycled, thrifted, or handmade outfits welcome!
Theme: Once Upon a Dream: Awaken Action - A magical evening to celebrate and strategize for youth-led climate action. Inspired by dreams, nature, and imagination, this event invites you to envision a better world and bring it to life.
What to expect: Networking followed by a seated dinner, presentations, and a performance by the Ailey Professional Division.
Purpose: All proceeds from the event will be split evenly between the six host nonprofits. Your ticket purchase is tax deductable and a receipt will be provided to the email you register with.
To inquire about purchasing a table and included benefits please contact Coco de Marneffe at coco.d@careaboutclimate.org