The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County celebrated another successful fundraising milestone last month, welcoming over 300 guests and raising $464,000 at their 12th annual Newport Yacht Rendezvous on June 27th at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard.
Under clear evening skies, the waterfront event combined the organization’s signature yacht hopping experience with dinner, dancing, and updates on recent developments at the Club.
“Our theme this year is about CHANGE – we have lots of change happening at BCG,” said Chief Advancement Officer Kelley Coen, who highlighted ongoing renovations at the Club’s 95 Church Street location and new leadership transitions.
Despite the emphasis on change, Coen noted important constants that remain central to the organization’s identity: the event’s 12-year tradition, the unwavering commitment of Club staff, and the Club’s core mission of putting kids and teens on the path to “Great Futures.”
The evening featured a spirited performance by the “BGC Bratz,” the Club’s dance team, and a moving speech from Adequoyah Mathews, who holds the distinction of being both the Club’s 2025 Youth of the Year and Rhode Island Youth of the Year. Mathews shared her personal journey and how the Club has influenced her growth, confidence, and future goals.
Before dinner service began under the waterfront tent, guests enjoyed exclusive access to an impressive fleet of vessels during the event’s popular yacht hop portion. The lineup included eight luxury yachts ranging from a 62-foot Lagoon Catamaran to a 123-foot Palmer Johnson Motor Yacht, presented by marine industry partners including Nicholson Yachts, Fraser Yachts, and Naples Nantucket Yacht Charters.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County has served the local community for 69 years, providing programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character development. The organization currently serves 1,900 members and reaches 2,000 individuals annually, working toward its mission “to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
More information about the Club and ways to support its mission can be found at www.bgcnewport.org.