Join us Thursday, June 11, 2026, 6-9 PM

The Great Blue Benefit is the Alliance for the Great Lakes’ signature annual fundraiser, bringing together more than 250 leaders, philanthropists, and advocates who are committed to protecting the lakes we all depend on.

This year’s theme, The Long View: A Celebration of Legacy, Leadership, and the Work Ahead, asks a simple question. What will we leave behind? The Great Lakes were here before us. The decisions we make now determine what remains.

Join us for an evening of Great Lakes-inspired art, regional wine, live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a tribute to this year’s Wavemaker honorees. President and CEO Joel Brammeier will share remarks, followed by a paddle raise to power our work across the basin.

Interested in becoming a sponsor. Learn more about or sponsorship levels here. Have additional questions? Email Genevieve Fletcher at gfletcher@greatlakes.org

Here’s a look back at some of our favorite moments from 2025.