Paving the Way to Safer Futures: National Night Out at Asylum Hill
Celebrating Community, Safety, and Togetherness
On August 5, our Club kids, families, and neighbors came together for a night that was about more than safety—it was about hope, connection, and brighter futures. At this year’s National Night Out at the Samuel S. Gray Jr. Club in Asylum Hill, we proudly kicked off the renovation of our parking lot, thanks to the generosity of LAZ Parking and the LAZ Charitable Foundation, our 2026 Champion of Youth. What began that evening has now been completed—creating a safer, smoother, and more welcoming experience for families each day.
The night opened with words of encouragement from Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, BGCH Board President Annie Hildreth, and Michael Kuziak, reminding us that when a community stands together, anything is possible.
BGCH President & CEO Bruce Jeffery captured it best: “We’re not just cutting a ribbon—we’re opening the door to safer experiences for our kids, their families, and our entire community.”
From the volunteer firefighters and retired Assistant Fire Chief Billy Smith representing CERT, to the music, food, and smiling faces of families, the event was filled with gratitude and joy. Together, we celebrated the power of partnerships and the simple truth that when our kids are safe, their futures shine brighter.

