BCS 160th Anniversary Gala Raises More Than $400,000

The BCS 160th Anniversary Gala brought more than 200 guests together beneath the glass ceiling of The Palm House at Brooklyn Botanic Garden on May 28, 2026.

For more than a century and a half, BCS has worked alongside Brooklynites to strengthen families, expand opportunities, and help the community thrive. The evening celebrated that legacy while highlighting the continued work taking place today across more than 50 programs serving Brooklyn residents through every phase of life.

Guests came together for an evening of connection, reflection, and celebration in support of BCS’s mission. Throughout the night, attendees learned more about the individuals, families, staff members, and programs that make this work possible. The Gala also offered an opportunity to recognize the partners and supporters who have continued to invest in BCS and the future of Brooklyn.

(C) PAUL MARTINKA

The night was centered around the infectious energy of return-host, Phil Taitt (ABC 7 NYC). This year’s Brooklyn Spirit Award was presented to Elizabeth Christensen in recognition of her decades of leadership, generosity, and commitment to our organization. Her continued support has helped BCS remain responsive to the evolving needs of Brooklynites while building a stronger foundation for the organization’s future.

Additionally, BCS honored two programs that embody our mission and demonstrate the impact of community-centered services: Food for Families and Brooklyn High School for Leadership and Community Service.

Through distributions held across Brooklyn, Food for Families connects thousands of individuals and families with fresh, nutritious food from our partners at Brooklyn Supported Agriculture. At a time when the rising cost of groceries and continued food insecurity are creating difficult choices for many households, the program continues to ensure that more Brooklynites have access to the food they need.

Brooklyn High School for Leadership and Community Service provides young people with an alternative pathway toward earning their high school diplomas. Through individualized academic assistance, leadership development, counseling, and other supportive services, the school helps students reconnect with their education, recognize their potential, and prepare for what comes next. This June, we just celebrated 25 graduating seniors as they walked across the stage to accept their High School diplomas.

(C) PAUL MARTINKA

The generosity shown at this year’s Gala will help sustain programs that serve individuals and families throughout Brooklyn. Through private donations and a high-energy silent auction, we raised more than $400,000 in support of BCS programs and participants throughout Brooklyn. We are incredibly grateful to our board members, community partners, sponsors, donors, staff, and everyone who joined us to make the 2026 BCS Gala such a success.

(C) PAUL MARTINKA

For 160 years, BCS has stood alongside Brooklyn. As we celebrate how far we have come, we’re remaining focused on the work ahead, and we’re committed to creating a borough where every Brooklynite has the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. Help us keep this generous spirit flowing by making a gift today and supporting the next chapter of BCS’s work across Brooklyn.

[Donate to BCS]