An important part of AFC+A’s origin story, ALEF is the nation’s premier event for diverse professionals working at the intersection of cultural and environmental justice which began in 2011 at CU Boulder, is now producing its 14th edition. The event invites artists, scientists, advocates, public policy leaders, and communties from across the Americas to congregate in the interest of exchanging ideas, sparking important dialogue, and incubating new collaborations.
14th ALEF to take place April 1 – 30!
“We begin with breath. Before anything else, we are bodies that breathe.”
— Irene Vilar, AFC+A Founder
Academia Comunitaria de Asma y Aire Limpio. Free, bilingual, monthly, twelve months. Opens in Commerce City and travels across metro Denver. Every workshop opens and closes with guided breathing. [contact email] · 855-CREANDO
A Pre-ALEF XIV Convening event at Walkers Ranch, for the entire family. The first breath of the festival: we take our lungs to the forest before we design the Summit. Free; meeting point sent after registration.
Stakeholders across ozone, oil and gas, radon and data centers design the April Clean Air Summit and draft the People’s Roadmap. Evening: 2nd RESPIRA workshop and the Gratitude Dinner unveiling Bosques Escolares, the school forest fund.
Apr 1 Opening Keynote and Concert · Apr 8 Clean Air Summit & 7th RESPIRA Workshop · Apr 10 LUNA IV with Rarámuri ultrarunner Lorena Ramírez · Apr 11 Family Festival Day · Apr 10, 17, 24 RESPIRA forest bathing adventures · Throughout the month school forest plantings · Apr 30 Closing Keynote and Concert.
$150,000 delivers ALEF XIV and clean air work through 2027. Bosques Escolares, a separate $100,000 fund, plants Miyawaki forests at six Colorado schools. Gifts by Dec 31 are deductible in 2026.
ALEF’s mission is to elevate the voices of communities of color and women in conservation by fostering intersectional collaboration to better tackle environmental justice challenges. We leverage art and culture to advance shared values and promote inclusivity. Our goals include:
Proclamation by Governor of Colorado Jared Polis establishing our Latino Ultra Nature Adventure Day (LUNA) in honor of its mission to advance human-nature connections and self-realization through running and hiking for communities historically excluded from outdoors sports and recreation.
Join us for any or all of ALEF’s diverse series of events, from the thrilling Latino Ultra Nature Adventure (LUNA) to impactful community tree plantings. Each activity offers a unique way to connect with nature, foster community, and drive environmental action.
Participate in our community tree planting events to enhance urban green spaces, promote tree equity, and foster environmental stewardship.
Engage in our summit and hands-on workshops, featuring award-winning urbanists and thought leaders discussing the critical role of urban tree equity in promoting healthier communities and mitigating climate change.
Experience the transformative power of nature through running and ultra hiking, promoting physical and mental well-being for communities historically excluded from outdoor recreation
Immerse yourself in the healing benefits of nature with our forest bathing adventure fests, offering a serene escape and deep connection to the natural world.
Join us for a day of artivist exhibits, workshops, performances, and eco-focused activities, celebrating the intersection of art, culture, and environmental action.
Celebrate the culmination of ALEF with an inspiring concert, featuring renowned artists and a vibrant display of cultural expression and environmental commitment.
Volunteering with ALEF offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental and cultural initiatives. Whether it’s helping at our vibrant events, assisting with community tree plantings, or supporting our educational workshops, your involvement will make a tangible impact. Your efforts will not only benefit the community but also provide you with enriching experiences and lasting connections.
Your contributions fuel our mission to bridge environmental and cultural gaps, advancing equity and sustainability. With your support, including your generous donations, we can expand our innovative programs, engage underserved communities, and drive impactful change.
