Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area Raise $1.195 Million at the 2026 Great Futures Gala

AUSTIN — The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area raised $1.195 million at its 2026 Great Futures Gala, the organization reported in coverage read by the desk this run — an annual night that brings together business leaders, philanthropists and youth-development advocates behind the Club's work with Austin children and teenagers.

The gala, presented by Haveli Investments, carried the theme 'the Champion Within.' The program opened with a performance by Club members and cheerleaders, and Brian Jones — a CBS Sports Network analyst, former University of Texas football player, NFL veteran and BGCAA board member — served as emcee. The Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Collective provided the music, and a live auction and fundraising paddle raise built the evening's total.

Chief Executive Zenae Campbell spoke about preparing young people for what comes next by widening their access to educational and career opportunities — encouraging students to explore college, technical training, skilled trades and entrepreneurship alike, with mentorship and hands-on experience helping them find their strengths. Featured speaker John Quiñones, a former Club member and Boys & Girls Clubs of America Hall of Fame inductee, described how his early Club experiences shaped his own path, and guests heard from Kaitlyn S., a member of the Navarro High Boys & Girls Club, who credited the Club with building her leadership and confidence — through opportunities that included the National Keystone Conference and meeting Texas state representatives at the Capitol.

The proceeds support BGCAA's youth development programs — academic support, leadership, healthy relationships and career exploration. The organization, founded in 1967, has served Austin-area young people for nearly six decades.