Programs and Events

Our in-person gatherings and virtual programs educate our network on environmental issues and philanthropy, elevate and support women leaders, and build community. Events with registration links below are open to the public. To access more programs, sign up for our newsletter or become a Rachel’s Network funder.

Upcoming Events

May 4-6, 2026 - Rachel's Network 2026 Spring Meeting

Rachel’s Network 2026 Spring Meeting: Building a Just, Green Future in Detroit
Dates: May 4-6, 2026
Location: Detroit, MI

“The Motor City” played a key role in the industrialization of America throughout the 20th century. While the auto industry is often credited with expanding the middle class, it also brought economic and environmental devastation in its wake. That damage fell primarily on Detroit’s majority-Black population who also faced rampant housing and job discrimination and deteriorating public services as white residents left for the suburbs.

The scars of segregation and industrialization remain palpable in Detroit, but the city has also been rapidly changing into something new. Its residents, rooted in a deep love for their city, are coaxing a better future into existence. Join Rachel’s Network in May to learn from local women environmental leaders and see Detroit’s just green transformation firsthand. The meeting will also include ample opportunities for community-building with fellow funders and advocates.

This program is for Rachel’s Network Members and Invited Guests.

May-June, 2026 - Rachel's Network 2026 Spring Book Club: The Book of Hope by Jane Goodall

Rachel’s Network 2026 Spring Book Club: The Book of Hope by Jane Goodall
Dates: Thursdays—May 14, 28, June 11, 25
Time: 2-3:15 pm ET
Location: Zoom

In troubled times, how do we hold on to hope? The late Jane Goodall, one of the world’s most famous naturalists, clarified a path forward in The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times.

Filled with moving and inspirational stories and photographs from Jane’s remarkable career, The Book of Hope is both deeply personal and relatable to any environmental advocate. It touches on vital questions, including: How do we cultivate hope in the next generation? What is the relationship between hope and action? Those who fight for a better world will find valuable insights in this icon’s legacy.

This program is for Rachel’s Network Members and Invited Guests

June 17, 2026 - Suffs, A Broadway Tour Experience in Washington, DC

Suffs, A Broadway Tour Experience for Women Leaders
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Washington, DC

A musical event one hundred years in the making, Suffs brings to life a complicated chapter in the ongoing battle for the right to vote: the American women’s suffrage movement. Written by one of the most exciting voices in theater, Shaina Taub, the musical takes an unflinching look at the unsung trailblazers whose activism led to the ratification of the nineteenth amendment. A thrilling story of brilliant, flawed women working against and across generational, racial, and class divides, Suffs explores the victories and failures of a fight for equality that is still far from over.

Join Rachel’s Network for a touring performance of Suffs, and a pre-show dinner at a walkable restaurant from the theatre.

This program is for Rachel’s Network Members and Invited Guests.

To learn more about any of our events, email Program Director Jamie Boese.

Rachel’s Network strives to cultivate bonds that enable us to grow with and learn from one another, and we celebrate our unique differences. We are committed to safe and inclusive gatherings for all attendees. We can build a stronger community when we approach our interactions with empathy and kindness. We ask that participants in our meetings review our tips for making Rachel’s Network a welcoming space.

Past Programs & Events

Multi-Day Programs

Rachel’s Network multi-day programs bring funders and advocates together to network, learn about environmental issues, and engage with community leaders. Past programs have included annual meetings (Seattle; Washington, DC); and retreats and excursions (Yosemite National Park; Durham; Argentina).

Educational Webinars

We believe in the power of women, particularly women of color, to create and nurture a healthy environment for all. We elevate their work in webinars throughout the year and also co-host webinars with values-aligned organizations.

Catalyst Community Gatherings

Rachel’s Network hosts gatherings focused on care and restoration for women environmental leaders of color, as part of our Catalyst Award program. These retreats serve as a vital space for leaders to connect with each other and foster their wellbeing.

In-Person Events

Rachel’s Network has hosted a variety of in-person events, including networking programs on environmental policy at our DC office, a trip to see the Broadway musical Suffs, a lunch with climate leaders in California, book launch parties, and much more.

Virtual Book Clubs

Roughly twice a year, we host a series of small-group discussions on books written by women environmentalists. The authors themselves sometimes join us during the concluding meeting. To see all our past book club picks (plus others recommended by our community), click here.

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Guided by our commitment to racial justice, we provide resources, trainings, and programs for funders to engage in anti-racist philanthropy and grow as allies through our JEDI Warriors program, a small-group learning journey.