The 2025 Great Futures Gala was more than an evening of celebration—it was a powerful reminder of why Austin Needs Club Kids, and Club Kids Need You. Throughout the night, guests witnessed the impact of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area firsthand through stories of perseverance, purpose, and possibility. Every smile, every standing ovation, and every pledge reflected a shared belief in creating Great Futures for Austin’s youth.
From the very first moment, the room buzzed with excitement, reflecting the heart of our mission. The evening opened with a warm welcome from newly crowned 2026 Youth of the Year Dulce L. and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area CEO Zenae Campbell, who set the tone with heartfelt gratitude and a clear sense of purpose. They reminded everyone that the support in the room doesn’t just change the lives of Club kids—it strengthens families, inspires communities, and helps build a brighter future for all of Austin.
“With encouragement from my Club director, I discovered new interests, new goals, and a new belief in what’s possible —the potential that I have.”
Rising star and Club member Jayde D. captivated the audience with her powerful vocals, embodying the confidence and talent nurtured within our Clubs. Her stirring rendition of “Rise Up” served as a fitting anthem for the evening — a reminder of the resilience and determination that define our youth.
Board Chair Mario Zambrano then took the stage with a moving address titled “The Time Is Now to Build the Future.” His words echoed the urgency of investing in the next generation—because when Austin invests in its kids, our entire community thrives.
“El momento es ahora. The time is now. Let us dream boldly, and act generously, so that years from now, when our children stand on this stage, they too can say: ‘I am the living dream of the Boys and Girls Clubs.”
Adding to the night’s inspiration, Austin City Manager and Club alum T.C. Broadnax shared his personal journey from Club kid to city leader. His story embodied the transformative power of the Boys & Girls Club experience—how a safe space, caring mentors, and a sense of belonging can shape futures that impact entire communities.
“[Club] wasn’t just about safety or fun. It was here that my passion for public service and helping people was sparked. The Club taught me the importance of community, the power of service, and the value of lifting others up. I saw firsthand how an organization could change lives, not just through words but through modeled actions.”
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments came from Darriyan Loera, a former Club alum from Burnet Middle Boys & Girls Club and now a proud staff member, who shared how her Club experience not only changed her life but continues to inspire her to change the lives of others.
“The Club showed me a different future; one I didn’t even know was possible. It gave me the courage to break the cycle and the time and space to grow into who I desired to be. The same girl who once so desperately needed the Club… now is the Club.”
🎥 Watch the video below to hear Darriyan’s inspiring story and see how the Boys & Girls Club continues to change lives—generation after generation.
As the night came to a close, guests raised their paddles high during the live auction and paddle raise, demonstrating their unwavering generosity and belief in our mission. The room erupted in celebration — $1.2 million raised to support Great Futures. Gratitude filled the air, but so did a clear call to action.
Austin Needs Club Kids. Club Kids Need You.
While we celebrate what was achieved, the need remains great. Thousands of young people across the Austin area are still waiting for a place to belong, to grow, and to dream. Today, 5 out of 6 Texas kids lack access to after-school programs — that’s 2.7 million children without a safe, structured, and inspiring place to go.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area, we believe every child deserves that opportunity — a safe space, a caring mentor, and the chance to reach their full potential. Together, we can make it happen.
Explore More Moments from the Gala
A special thank you to mascots Hook ’Em, Spike, and Da Bull for bringing extra energy and excitement to the evening.
Club kids had the exciting opportunity to interview guests throughout the evening, asking them one powerful question: Why does Austin need Club kids? Their curiosity sparked thoughtful conversations and gave attendees a chance to reflect on the vital role Clubs play in our community.
The Longhorn Band Drumline, Spirit Squad, and Texas Cowboys brought incredible energy and excitement to the Gala, filling the room with rhythm, spirit, and joy. Their dynamic performances had guests on their feet, celebrating alongside the youth and creating a lively, unforgettable atmosphere. From electrifying drumbeats and spirited cheers to the iconic presence of the Texas Cowboys, they helped set the perfect tone for an evening of connection, celebration, and support for Great Futures.
Navarro High Boys & Girls Club proudly highlighted its 2024, 2025, and newly crowned 2026 Youth of the Year members during the Gala. Led by Club Director Jacob Hernandez, these remarkable young leaders—including two now thriving in college—are true changemakers, using the skills, confidence, and leadership they developed at the Club to make a difference in their schools, neighborhoods, and beyond. Their journeys are a powerful reminder that Austin needs Club kids—and Club kids need support to continue growing into the leaders our community relies on.
