Over $800,000 in Conservation Commitments: WELL/BEINGS’ Bound by Nature Gala Gathered Leaders in NYC

Benefit supports conservation partners

The dinner brought guests together to support conservation efforts in vulnerable ecosystems across the Caribbean and the Bolivian Amazon. Guests wore blue and green, reflecting marine and terrestrial environments.

Funds raised will support more than $800,000 in programmatic commitments WELL/BEINGS has made to 15 partners for 2026 and 2027. The selected groups include local and underserved organizations working to protect wildlife, restore critical habitats and strengthen communities in targeted areas.

Local leaders at the center

In opening remarks, Hearst Rønning emphasized supporting people who live closest to ecosystems in need of protection. “They know what needs to be done,” she said, adding that support and funding can be barriers to action. Rønning said WELL/BEINGS supports and amplifies local leaders as part of its conservation approach.

Funding model and history

Since its founding, WELL/BEINGS has invested more than $3 million in conservation. The organization operates under a 100 percent donation model. Its co-founders and Board of Directors cover core operating expenses separately, so public donations go directly toward the organization’s mission.