Once Upon a Time: Where Young Dreams Bloom

An enchanting evening celebrating possibility, growth, and brighter futures.

Every great story begins with possibility. This year, ConnectiKids invites you to step into Once Upon a Time, an enchanting Botanical Ball inspired by the magic of storytelling, the beauty of growth, and the power of transformation. Surrounded by whimsical botanicals and beloved storybook themes, guests will celebrate the potential of young people and the opportunities that help them thrive.

But this is more than an elegant evening. It is an opportunity to help shape the next chapter in a child’s life.

During the 2025-2026 program year, ConnectiKids served 208 students across Greater Hartford with the support of 105 volunteer mentors. Through academic tutoring, mentoring, enrichment programs, and summer learning experiences, students gain the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed.

The impact is measurable:

95% of students enjoy meeting with their mentor each week.
93% say their mentor encourages them to do their best.
89% report ConnectiKids helped them become more comfortable asking for help.
84% say working with their mentor helps them better understand their schoolwork.
79% say the program helps them feel more positive about themselves.

Beyond the school year, ConnectiKids' summer programs continue to expand opportunities for youth. In Summer 2026, 90.8% of participants reported making new friends, 75.4% developed greater curiosity and creativity, and 92.2% learned how to cook a meal through hands-on enrichment classes.

The Botanical Ball brings together supporters, community leaders, and advocates who believe every young person deserves the chance to flourish. By attending or becoming a sponsor, you help provide the mentoring relationships, academic support, enrichment opportunities, and transformative experiences that make these outcomes possible.

Join us for an unforgettable evening where stories come to life, possibilities take root, and every contribution helps a young person move closer to their own happily ever after.

Every great story needs champions. Become a sponsor and help shape the next chapter for Hartford’s youth.

Looking for outfit ideas? We've got you covered! Visit our Pinterest Vision Board: https://pin.it/p9oWdsqoD

Your support helps educate, enrich, and empower local students.

Click below to discover what your attendance, donation, or sponsorship will help make possible.

ConnectiKids goes far beyond after-school and summer programs; it is deeply committed to the holistic development of children and the well-being of their families. By partnering with community organizations, ConnectiKids helps address critical needs such as mental health support, housing, food insecurity, and other systemic barriers. Through family-inclusive field trips, workshops, and events, the organization fosters meaningful engagement between parents and their children. Additionally, its Youth Empowered Support program (YES) empowers youth ages 14–18 with leadership skills, career and college exploration, and mentorship, preparing them to thrive both personally and professionally.

*Want to learn more about ConnectiKids? Visit our website: here. Curious about what we accomplished? Take a look at our Annual Report

ConnectiKids
EIN: 06-1035985 (501c3)

ConnectiKids Botanical Ball 2027

Where every story blooms and every child’s future shines.