With 2025 on the horizon, we want to express our gratitude for your work to grow a better world. As we brace for renewed political attacks on the environment and women’s rights in the years ahead, this work has never been more necessary. Rachel’s Network will continue to provide a restorative and empowering space for women and nonbinary leaders in our community.

This quote from the book Intertwined: Women, Nature, and Climate Justice by Rebecca Kormos (our fall 2024 book club pick) stands out:

“We need to gather common strands of what we are fighting against and standing for, and braid them into a stronger rope—a lifeline from rising waters and burning landscapes, one that connects us in purpose so that no one feels alone and no one is left behind.”

In that spirit, Rachel’s Network hosted its first in-person event exclusively for Catalyst awardees and finalists at the Kripalu Center For Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts in November. Awardees, finalists, and staff members Catalyst Award Director Shreya Durvasula and Finance and Membership Director Hannan Sheikh were also joined by grantees of the Tides Foundation’s Women’s Environmental Leadership (WE LEAD) fund for a gathering focused on care and restoration for women environmental leaders of color.

With news of the election results still fresh, the retreat served as a vital gathering space for 14 leaders to process their emotions in a supportive space. The agenda included shared meals, a guided hike, yoga classes, and reflective time in nature.

“When I first planned the retreat in early 2024, I was hoping it would be a celebratory space,” said Shreya. “Alas, as we know, it wasn’t meant to be. But what we got was also incredible—an affirmation in the work we’re doing here at Rachel’s Network and a glimpse of the resilience of our movement.”

Said two participants:

“There are not enough words for the gratitude I feel… for what was nothing short but an internal realignment and centering. Less pain in my body, a lengthening of my spine, gentleness in my voice, and deeper sleep.”

“The retreat has given me the strength to move forward during these challenging times and has renewed my hope for healing. I now feel more empowered to continue the important work in my community with an open heart and a renewed sense of purpose.”

Gatherings like these will be vital over the next four years as women leaders face increased threats to their wellbeing and communities. To support these programs, contribute to the Catalyst Award.