Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford to Host 2026 Great Futures Celebration: Golden Nights, Golden Futures
A Night of Youth Stories, Community Impact, and Unforgettable Performances
Hartford, CT (April 27, 2026) — Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford will host its annual Great Futures Celebration on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Theater of the Performing Arts in Hartford, bringing together more than 400 business and community leaders for an evening centered on youth, opportunity, and impact.
This year’s theme, “Golden Nights, Golden Futures,” sets the stage for a high-energy, awards inspired theatrical experience—where community, celebration, and the stories of Hartford’s young people take center stage.
Guests will enjoy an immersive evening featuring live performances by Javier Colón, the inaugural winner of NBC’s The Voice, alongside talented Club youth from the Vincent Trantolo Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford Choir, showcasing the transformative power of mentorship, creativity, and opportunity.
The event is proudly presented by the LAZ Charitable Foundation, recognized as the 2026 Champion of Youth, with Marcia and Alan Lazowski serving as Honorary Event Chairs.
At the heart of the evening is the celebration of Youth of the Year, Tiarra, the highest honor a Club member can achieve. Recognized for her leadership, resilience, and personal growth, Tiarra represents the impact of Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford and the promise of what is possible when young people are supported and empowered.
“The Boys & Girls Club taught me one of the most important lessons of my life: You are more than your circumstances,” said Tiarra. “I have the power to grow beyond my past, to speak up, and to choose a different future for myself. They gave me the push that I needed to allow myself to heal and take a stand for myself. It's time for me to pursue the future that I not only envision for myself, but I truly deserve.” – Tiarra
The evening will be emceed by news anchors Dennis House of WTNH TV 8 and Kara Sundlun of WFSB TV 3, well-known and respected voices in the Hartford community, who will guide guests through a dynamic program highlighting youth achievement, powerful storytelling, and community impact.
“The Great Futures Celebration is a powerful reflection of what happens when a community invests in its young people,” said Annie Hildreth, BGCH Board Chair. “Every day, our Clubs provide a safe place, mentorship, and opportunities that help youth discover their voice and build a path forward.”
The 2026 celebration will take place just steps from the Trinity Boys & Girls Club, reinforcing the organization’s deep connection to the community it serves. Guests will enjoy thoughtfully curated hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in a lively reception setting, followed by theater-style seating for the evening program.
A dynamic silent auction will also be available to both in-person and remote participants, expanding access for supporters to engage from anywhere.
A New Tradition: Memory Book for Youth of the Year
New this year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford is introducing a Memory Book—a printed keepsake filled with messages of encouragement from the community for Youth of the Year, Tiarra.
Community members and local businesses are invited to submit personalized messages, creating a lasting collection of support as she begins her year of ambassadorship.
Event Details
Great Futures Celebration: Golden Nights, Golden Futures
Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Theater of the Performing Arts
359 Washington Street, Hartford, CT
Tickets, auction access, and additional event details are available at:
https://www.bgchartford.org/great-futures-celebrations
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford fill the gap between school and home, providing a welcoming and positive environment for thousands of youth each year. Founded by four women in Hartford in 1860, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford has the honor and distinction of being the nation’s first Club and maintains traditional clubhouses and school-based sites throughout Hartford. More than 165 years later, we continue to be at the forefront of youth development, working with young people from various economic, social and family circumstances. Our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens – putting them on a path to a great future. For more information, please visit bgchartford.org.