What a night!

The generosity and commitment of our community inspire the next generation of River Heroes by creating ‘aha’ moments for more students throughout the Colorado River Basin. Cocktails for the Colorado 2026 was a remarkable success!

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and supporters, Colorado River Alliance raised $408,600 to advance its mission. Thank you so very much!

I want to thank everyone who joined us to celebrate, our sponsors whose generosity made the evening possible, and our Gala Committee. Under the visionary and creative leadership of Katherine and Bryan Beckworth, the committee delivered an unforgettable evening that raised critical support of our mission!

Most especially, congratulations to the 2026 John Lay River Hero Honoree, Phil Wilson, for his dedication to our river and our state. Rewatch Phil’s River Hero video below.

The funds raised will be put to immediate use supporting our Youth Environmental Stewardship (YES!) programs, cleanup events, and collaborative efforts with strategic partners to reach every Texan with a message of the River’s importance.

These funds will provide thousands of young Texans with powerful ‘aha’ moments when curiosity becomes understanding; an understanding that leads to a lifelong commitment to protecting and conserving our Colorado River.

This support equips the next generation of River Heroes with the knowledge and tools to protect and preserve our Colorado River and ensure its long-term vitality.

Thank you for being an important part of our community. I look forward to sharing the impact of this work and continuing it together in the years ahead.

For the future,

Adrienne Longenecker, CFRE
Executive Director

Relive the evening with us

Watch the Cocktails for the Colorado program video celebrating Colorado River Alliance’s impact in our community.

See all the photos