WHAT WE DO AT GMS
Since 2010, we have gathered each year for a weekend of digital detox, discussions, and workshops, dance parties, campfires, big thinking, and more.
Each year, folks from the Bay Area and beyond gather for a weekend of disconnecting from the “default” world in order to reconnect to each other, and to nature.
Here, values-driven people come together to share innovative ideas, teach each other new skills, make meaningful connections, and enjoy time to rest and recharge.
Every year, it is incredibly inspiring (and ridiculously fun) to connect with others who believe in causes greater than our individual selves.
The Greenermind Summit is a participant-driven event, not a panel of "talking head" experts. The agenda is set by the attendees themselves (you!).
The Summit features a wide range of participant-led, interactive activities on both personal and impact-focused topics, from Scaling Renewable Energy to Creating Co-Housing to Technology and Politics.
All attendees are invited to suggest, create, and lead workshops or sessions of their own. The Summit takes shape through the passions, ideas, and energy that participants bring with them to the event.
The event leadership team is 100% volunteer based; it's incredible people like YOU that make the Greenermind Summit what it is each year.
FAQs
What will happen each day at the Summit?
Each day is a balance of structure and openness, serious and fun, action and reflection. There are participant-led workshops, games, small-group discussions, campfires, costume parties, and playful activities.
Who should attend?
The Summit is geared towards curious, values-driven, and generally awesome humans who are passionate about making a positive social and/or environmental impact in the world. The sessions are active and collaborative -- and everyone gets to contribute. Many people come solo, as well as couples that attend together. We are committed to making our event accessible to parents; we welcome children of all ages. Please see below for more information on the kids track.
What topics will be covered?
It depends on the mix of attendees, but topics are typically wide-ranging. The Summit began with a strong focus on leadership, business, and design for positive impact. Each year brings a new mix of people and ideas, and we love seeing change-makers from different sectors come together to share perspectives and cross-pollinate.
Should my company pay for it?
The event is driven by the interests and passions of the attendees. If you are interested and passionate about your work, then yes. The Summit is a great place for you to refine your ideas, further your projects, and meet great people who could become collaborators.
How many folks will be there?
We limit the Summit to 100 attendees.
What if I'm new to the community?
Welcome! Typically about 50% of Summit attendees are new, with about 50% returning. We have lots of small-group activities to help you meet and get to know your fellow attendees and help you feel comfortable and connected.
When does it start and end?
Arrival and programming begins on Friday after lunch. People setting up arrive earlier - let us know if you would like to help set up the event! This is a great chance to get to know folks early. We need to leave the camp on Sunday afternoon by 2pm.
What if I can't come Friday?
If you need to arrive Saturday morning please let us know. We strongly encourage you to attend on Friday. The event is all about taking time out from the daily grind to get new inspiration, ideas, and energy to contribute to your personal and professional growth. Being present for the full event will allow you to have a more meaningful experience and create deeper connections with the community of people who will be there.
How do I get there? Will there be a carpool?
The Summit is held at Cazadero Music Camp, 5385 Cazadero Highway, 95421, about two hours north of San Francisco by car. We create a carpool spreadsheet to allow you to connect with others; the drive is a great way to meet new friends. The spreadsheet link will be shared with you after registering.
What's the lodging like?
You'll be staying in rustic wood cabins without heating or air conditioning. The cabins have beds but you'll need to bring your own sheets or sleeping bag. You'll have cabin-mates, and you can request who to stay with (and other cabin preferences, such as noise tolerance) when you register.
What's covered in the cost of the ticket? Lodging from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, 6 catered meals, and all programming.
Will I need to volunteer on site?
Yes; everyone volunteers for one shift during the event; when you arrive, you choose what you are interested in helping with. Also, everyone pitches in to pick up after themselves and keep the space clean.
How can I contribute? Am I required to contribute?
This is a community-created event, so there are lots of ways to contribute; the first step is to email us your idea at info@greenermindsummit.com.
You can lead a workshop or activity, suggest a self organized session, sing or play guitar around the campfire, share a talent in our Saturday night variety show, create an art piece, or just show up and connect with people.
The whole event runs on inspiration, so you don't "have" to do anything. The best gift you can offer yourself is to connect deeply with what YOU are inspired to do, whether that's diving into activities or sitting quietly under the redwoods. There's space for both (and much more) at the Greenermind Summit.
What are we eating? What if I have dietary restrictions?
The food is always de-li-cious! All meals are included from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch (6 meals), and are served buffet-style in the dining hall, with accommodations for many dietary needs. If you have specific dietary restrictions, please email us at info@greenermindsummit.com, and we will do our very best to accommodate you.
Can I bring my own food?
Feel free to bring your favorite drinks and shelf-stable snacks. Refrigerator space will be very limited and will be reserved for people with significant dietary restrictions. Consider bringing a cooler for drinks and non-shelf stable snacks for yourself and your kids.
What drinks should I bring?
We provide morning coffee and tea, as well as tea throughout the day. We do not provide libations, so you should bring any alcoholic beverages you'd like to drink.
What stuff should I bring?
We'll send you an Attendee Info Guide as we get closer to the event. This guide will list everything you need to know before coming, including what to bring.
Can I bring my pet?
The Cazadero Camp does not allow pets. Contact us with questions about service animals at info@greenermindsummit.com.
Is the event family friendly?
Yes! We have a Kids Track with special programming for little ones, along with subsidized tickets for children. We will have childcare handled on-site for most of the conference. Please see the Kids page for more information, and if you have additional questions, email info@greenermindsummit.com.
Is there cell phone reception or internet access?
There is no cell phone reception (and we're excited about that). There is no internet onsite, but there is internet access across the street at Raymond’s bakery. In case of emergency, you are encouraged to share the camp office phone number (707) 632-5159.
Who is organizing this event?
The Greenermind community is 100% volunteer run, and everyone contributes financially to participate in the Summit. We are primarily based in the San Francisco Bay Area but have community members throughout Northern California.
Why is it called "Greenermind"?
Our name reflects our passion for creating impact, our connection with others in nature, and a sense of looking toward the future. Over the years we have expanded the amount of programming on connection, growth and impact across sectors.
Can I help?
Yes! If you're interested in becoming a part of our fun-loving, high-impact group of volunteers, please contact us at info@greenermindsummit.com.
About Greenermind
Greenermind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering a mutually supportive community focused on growth and transformation—personal, professional, social, cultural, and ecological. Our primary offering is an annual, participant-driven summit for learning and connection.
Founded in 2009 as a project of Net Impact San Francisco and IDSA-SF, Greenermind emerged from a shared desire to move beyond traditional sustainability conferences. The goal was simple: create the kind of gathering we actually wanted to attend—welcoming, values-driven, playful, and deeply human. What began as an event has grown into a lasting community.
Greenermind is more retreat than conference. We connect, explore ideas, process things asking for our attention, as well as wear costumes, move our bodies, and sing and play. You might stay up late dancing and spinning fire—or talking about mindfulness, a favorite Sci-fi book, or natural carbon sinks.