The Community Environmental Council (CEC) will host an evening dedicated to climate action and resilience at its annual Green Gala, Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Bakery Block in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone.
The Green Gala is CEC’s signature fundraising event, uniting a group of community leaders, philanthropists, and climate activists to help ensure California’s Central Coast remains a leader in climate resilience and sustainability.
This year’s theme — Resilience — honors the strength of the Santa Barbara community in the face of environmental challenges.
A symbol of this resilience, the Matilija poppy, known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive under harsh conditions, will be highlighted throughout the event.
The theme serves as a reminder of the urgency and determination needed to face future climate challenges head-on, CEC said.
Giving the keynote address will be Capt. Sheila Kelliher Berkoh, Los Angeles County Fire Department’s PIO, who will present a firsthand account from the front lines of the recent L.A. fires, and the community’s response.
Kelliher Berkoh’s remarks will underscore the importance of preparedness and collective action in the face of climate-related crises.
“It is an honor to participate in the Community Environmental Council’s Green Gala and learn more about the important work being done on the Central Coast,” Kelliher Berkoh said. “Fire may test us, but resilience defines us. Every challenge is an opportunity to rebuild stronger, to reconnect with each other and the environment, and to move forward with purpose.
“I’m proud to stand with CEC and this incredible community to celebrate recovery, renewal, and the power of rebuilding together, especially with wildfire resilience as a focus.”
Pat McElroy, retired Santa Barbara city fire chief, will host a special table honoring Santa Barbara first responders, who provided critical assistance during the L.A. fires.
“Firefighters and other first responders play a critical role during climate crises, and it’s important that we recognize their dedication and bravery,” said Jennifer Drucker, one of the gala’s co-chairs.
“The Green Gala is not only about raising funds, it’s about honoring those who work every day to protect our communities and the environment from the devastating impacts of climate change,” Drucker said.
Proceeds from the Green Gala will support CEC’s work to protect the Central Coast through programs aimed at fostering climate leadership, wildfire resilience, community safety, and environmental advocacy.
The programs include CEC’s Climate Stewards course; youth workshops; wildfire resilience projects; and the Electrify Your Life program, which ensures disadvantaged communities have access to affordable green technologies.
The 2025 Green Gala will offer a seated dinner featuring climate-smart cuisine by Seasons Catering, complemented by cocktails and local wine.
The evening will include a live auction offering one-of-a-kind experiences.
There will be a cocktail party and VIP reception at 5 p.m. before the main event, and an after-party at 8 p.m., which is open to the public with a suggested donation.
Live music will be provided by The Academy, the Santa Barbara-based band founded by Augustine and Jake DeTar of DeTar Music Studios.
This year’s gala is powered by a Solaris Trailer, a battery powered, solar generator on wheels.
The 2025 Green Gala is led by honorary committee members Dorothy Largay, Sara Miller McCune, Natalie Orfalea and Stacy Pulice; and co-chaired by Jennifer Drucker, Jessica McLernon and Michelle Weinman.
Green Gala sponsorships are still available. Sponsorship details and tickets to the Green Gala can be found here: https://cecsb.org/green-gala.
CEC thanks the following event partners: ACME Hospitality, Black Market Spirits, Cascade Mountain Spring Water, Efficient Events, Islay Events, Margerum Wine Company, Moby Dick Restaurant – The Oyster Bar, Seasons Catering, The LAB, and Town & Country.
For ticket information or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://cecsb.org/green-gala.
Find CEC on the web at CECSB.org.