New Message, Same Mission

On April 21st, our Youth of the Year finalists stood inside the Connecticut State Capitol, and the weight of that setting was not lost on anyone in the room. These are young people who have overcome, who have grown, who have shown up for their communities with a dedication that speaks for itself. And there they were, exactly where they deserved to be. Among them was Tiarra, our very own Hartford winner, who carried our Club's pride to the state level with a quiet confidence that fills a room. Watching her represent everything we pour into this work was one of those reminders that lands somewhere deep. She and her fellow finalists from clubs across the state met with Governor Ned Lamont, Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, CFRE, and Speaker Matthew Ritter, moving through those halls with purpose and engaging with leaders who shape the direction of this state. The conversations were real. The connections were genuine. And the message those young people received, simply by being welcomed into those spaces, will stay with them long after the day ended. That is what Youth of the Year reaches toward. A belief that our young people belong at every table, in every room, in every conversation about the future they are going to inherit. We are immensely proud of Tiarra, and of every finalist who stood in that building on April 21st. Connecticut's future is in extraordinary hands.

Bringing Civic Learning to Life

The Courage to Lead: Youth of the Year 2026

Black History Month is more than a time of reflection. It is a time to honor achievement, amplify legacy, and recognize the enduring impact of Black leaders whose resilience, innovation, and excellence continue to shape our nation.  At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, this recognition is deeply personal. Many of the youth and families we serve see their own stories reflected in the legacy of those who came before them. Creating spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and empowered is not an annual observance — it is central to who we are.

Her voice moved a room to tears. Your support makes moments like this possible. 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford President & CEO Bruce Jeffery joins UConn legend Donny Marshall, BGCH staff, and Club Kids at the start of the 2025 Donny’s Dash: Scary Good Fall Run at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center. Over 400 runners, including 80 Club Kids, participated in this community event in support of Great Futures. Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. Over 400 runners and 80 youth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford laced up their sneakers today for the 2025 Donny’s Dash: Scary Good Fall Run, held at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center. The event brought together families, community partners, and corporate supporters for a day filled with fitness, fun, and philanthropy—all in support of opening doors to Great Futures for Hartford youth. Among the runners were more than 80 Club Kids r epresenting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, who ran with pride, excitement, and that signature Club energy. Their enthusiasm captured the true spirit of the event—creating opportunities where young people can grow, thrive, and dream big. The celebration featured appearances by Donny Marshall, UConn basketball legend and BGCH Board Member, Morgan Tuck, General Manager of the CT Sun, and Bruce Jeffery, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. "We are incredibly proud to see our community come together to support our Club kids," said Jeffery. "Every mile run today represents a step toward brighter futures for the kids we serve every day." All proceeds from Donny's Dash directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, providing local youth with access to safe spaces, positive mentorship, and programs focused on academic success, character & leadership, wellness and life & workforce readiness.

Together, we’re building great futures—one SMART Girl at a time.

When caring adults show up, confidence grows. Thank you to Cigna for helping our SMART Girls learn the power of self-love and self-expression. #ClubKids #GreatFutures

Miles of Smiles: Where Fitness Meets Fun and Community