Contributed Photo
This Citizen Contribution was submitted by Melissa Liriano, LEAP’s communications coordinator.
Are you interested in immersing yourself in the world of jazz and inspirational music with the Monk Family Jazz and STEAM Collective? Maybe you want to participate in discussions on health equity with Yale’s Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith or wish to explore the latest climate solutions with former presidential candidate Tom Steyer. The 29th annual LEAP Year Event, on Thursday, February 29, 2024, with additional conversations on March 2, 2024, and April 4, 2024, offers these unique experiences and more through engaging conversations, in-person and on Zoom, with experts from a broad range of fields.
After three years of virtual gatherings, the LEAP Year Event will return to an in-person celebration at the Dixwell Community “Q” House. The evening will commence with an in-person cocktail reception honoring Marcum’s Tony Scillia with the prestigious LEAP Community Leadership Award, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the community. Afterward, guests can attend one of 17 elegant conversations, hosted at various locations across Greater New Haven, including homes, restaurants, and virtually. Those attending the four conversations on other evenings can still join for the reception on February 29th.
These intimate dinner parties are filled with delicious food and topics ranging from what to do with controversial public monuments to the profound insights of the Yale Quantum Institute on the second quantum revolution. Each conversation is an opportunity to support LEAP’s programs and delve into discussions that promise to enlighten, challenge, and inspire!
In addition to celebrating community and leadership, the LEAP Year Event shines a spotlight on LEAP’s extraordinary children’s program, which is at the heart of LEAP’s mission. LEAP engages children and teens in New Haven neighborhoods with a comprehensive suite of academic and social enrichment programs. Through activities such as swimming, gardening, camping, community volunteering, dance, and music, LEAP creates an environment where young minds can explore, learn, and grow. Last year, LEAP served over 1,300 children and teens and employed over 200 young people, making LEAP the largest youth employer in New Haven. Additionally, LEAP hired an Academic Success Coordinator and Clinical Coordinator, highlighting their commitment to empowering youth!
LEAP Year Event is LEAP’s most important fundraiser, raising over $350,000 for LEAP’s free programs last year. The funds raised are vital for LEAP’s mission to support New Haven’s youth from low-income neighborhoods. This initiative aims to tackle long-standing inequalities caused by historical policies and systemic underfunding, perpetuating generational poverty in New Haven. LEAP’s comprehensive approach fills crucial gaps in social, emotional, and academic support, equipping children with the skills to become future leaders and break this cycle. Starting from the age of seven, children progress through LEAP’s programs, eventually becoming mentors themselves, creating a new cycle of positive community impact.
The LEAP Year Event 2024 is a night of celebration and a testament to the power of community. It showcases the collective effort to make a difference in the lives of New Haven’s youth. Every ticket purchased and conversation held contributes directly to LEAP’s mission to empower the city’s children and teens through education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.
In a special note of appreciation, the LEAP Year Event recognizes Noble Wealth Advisors of Janney Montgomery Scott, Superhero Sponsor, whose generous support symbolizes the event’s significance and impact. Their commitment reflects the shared vision of a brighter future for New Haven’s children, made possible through community support.
No matter what your interests are, you will find the LEAP Year Event conversations to be welcoming and exciting spaces that encourage discussions that will spark your curiosity. To view the complete list of conversations, guests of honor, and discussion topics, please visit LEAP’s website by clicking here.
There are four ticket levels for the event. You can purchase tickets to attend the reception only for between $10 and $50 (available on a sliding scale), or the reception and dinner of your choice for $150. Alternatively, you can buy tickets for participating in a Zoom conversation (without dinner) and the reception for $95. If you are a first-time attendee or student, you can attend the reception and virtual conversations for just $75 (dinner not included). Tickets go on sale today (Tuesday, January 30th) and can be purchased on LEAP’s website by clicking here. Seats are limited and will go quickly, so buy your tickets early to secure your spot! If you have any questions or concerns, please email [email protected] or call the LEAP office at 203 – 773-0770. We hope to see you there!
