Rochester Gala Raises Record Funds for 300 Kids in Need

Med City residents dressed up for a cause and delivered big for local kids. The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester's annual "Chair Affair" gala shattered expectations in February, becoming one of the top three fundraising nights in the organization's history.

The black-tie event transformed the downtown Hilton into a circus wonderland complete with unicycle-riding jugglers, magicians, and a fortune-telling vending machine. Local artists designed 75 custom chairs for auction, with proceeds funding meals, mentoring programs, and activities for club members.

CEO Chad Campbell couldn't hide his excitement about the community turnout. "It was so wonderful to see everyone from around town come together," he said, noting the event will help fund programs for another year.

The impact reaches real kids like Wayman Docks, who joined the club in 2024 and loves the pool and gym at the East Center Street location. "It feels really good that we can actually have a bunch of stuff to play with because of the donations," he shared.

Eleven-year-old Aamilah Halbert, a member since 2019, sees the direct connection between community support and her daily experience. She knows donations mean "more equipment," repairs to existing facilities, and food so "everybody can eat."

The Ripple Effect

The gala's success comes at a critical time for the organization. The club has more than tripled the number of children it serves daily, creating new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Campbell revealed a staggering need: over 7,000 kids in the Rochester area could benefit from programs like theirs. Right now, they can only accommodate about 300 children each day.

But the overwhelming community response gives him hope. "We can't do it overnight, but when the community responds in the way that they have, we think we can do a lot more," Campbell said.

The club is now focusing on stabilizing operations to match its rapid growth, improving program quality and engaging more community partners. With relationships running deep after 26 years of service, the foundation is solid for expanding their reach to more children who need safe spaces, nutritious meals, and caring mentors.

When a community shows up for its kids, everyone wins.