"Each month this Summer, I attended an in-person action meet up at a local coffee shop with fellow members of the Rochester, NY chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL). Here we're discussing the emotional impact of climate work and the importance of building a community to support our efforts. One of my favorite aspects of Citizens' Climate Lobby is their focus on teamwork and positive change. So often, we are bogged down by the fear-mongering news of climate catastrophes making us feel as though we have no way forward, but I know that’s not true. After engaging with such inspiring members of my local community and seeing, first-hand, their drive and passion for enacting effective climate legislation, I feel confident that our future is worth fighting for. The community I found in CCL reached far beyond discussions about climate work. I truly feel a sense of friendship with each and every person that I worked with. Allen Blair (pictured left) and I bonded over our love for the New York Times Crossword Puzzle; I shared my recipe for blueberry muffins with Katie Rygg, the co-director of Roc CCL (not pictured); I left every meeting knowing that I have a support system behind me no matter where my advocacy journey takes me. Climate work can be tough, especially with the pessimism that surrounds the field; however, I hope that groups like CCL can continue to thrive and enact positive change through the commendable work of their members."