Events
We provide a variety of programs and activities to bring the community together in support of services for children and families. We are a conduit for fostering open and positive discussion among various segments of the West Hartford community.
Children's Charity Ball
2025 Children's Charity Ball Set for January 25, 2025
Our Annual Children's Charity Ball celebrates the positive impact the Bridge has on the lives of children, adults, and families who turn to us for care. This year's event will be held on January 25, 2025 at Farmington Gardens. As in past years, the event features unique live and silent auctions, dinner and speaking program, and dancing.
Funds raised through the Ball reach far and wide and touch more than 9,000 people who are helped by the Bridge each year. Our programs and services are as diverse as the people we serve. By sponsoring and attending the Ball you impact many lives, in many ways, every day:
- School-aged children will receive the support they need to develop emotionally and socially.
- Teens living in our shelters will strengthen their self-esteem.
- Young adults will acquire skills and resources to live independently.
- Little ones will learn through play.
- Couples and families will repair relationships.
- Parents will work on reunification with their children.
All of us will benefit from your concern and compassion!
If you would like to purchase tickets to the event, please click here.
To donate an item to our auction, please contact Liz Britney at lbritney@bridgefamilycenter.org or at 860.521.8035.
For more information, please contact Doreen Tarascio at 860.521.8035
Breakfast on the Bridge
Breakfast on the Bridge, a 36-year tradition, is an opportunity for individuals who work with children and families in West Hartford to kick off a new year of collaboration. It signifies the start of the school year, gives old friends a chance to catch up, and provides an opportunity to meet new people and share ideas. Each year, the annual Build No Fences Award is presented to an individual who sees no boundaries and works collaboratively with child advocates to support young people and families.
This year, Shannon Mlodzinski, Prinicipal at Aiken Elementary School, received this award. Before it was presented, Shannon heard complimentary comments from her colleagues. Kelly Brouse, Assistant Director of Pupil Services, commented "Shannon is a person who consistently ensures there are no fences between our students and their school homes. She is a role model for all educators and could not be more deserving of this recognition". Shannon was humbled to receive the award, and even more amazed when her husband and children joined her at the event. "I am so appreciative. It's really such a team effort and I am just so fortunate and so blessed. A day doesn't go by when I'm not happy to drive to school, happy to be at work, happy to be in a town that really supports education and supports the kids. I work in an amazing school community," Mlodzinski said.
