Greenwich Event Raises $125,000 For Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Connecticut

GREENWICH, CT — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut raised more than $125,000 to support youth mentoring during its Sports Franchise Economics Forum at the Belle Haven Club in Greenwich last Wednesday.

The event featured speakers from the sports and investment sectors, including former New York Giants captain and two-time Super Bowl champion Justin Tuck and Greenwich resident Wyc Grousbeck, co-owner and CEO of the Boston Celtics. They were joined by Mark Affolter of Ares Management and Charlie Post of J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Greenwich.

Panelists discussed the evolving landscape in sports franchise ownership and investment and reflected on how mentors influenced their personal and professional paths.

More than 100 people attended, including community leaders, corporate partners and local youth. Attendees included Jim Aiello, co-founder of the Greenwich Economic Forum; teens from Barbara’s House; students from Brunswick School in Greenwich; and Fairfield resident Jenna Hofmann, Miss Connecticut for 2025. The event was sponsored by J.P. Morgan Private Bank, Ares Management and the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation.

During the program, Big Brother Joe DeLutrie and Little Brother Ocean shared their experience since being matched in 2022. They described how their relationship, centered on a shared interest in sports, has supported Ocean’s development.

"The program has changed my life in so many ways—especially because of Joe. He’s a great person and a great Big. I’m really glad to have him," Ocean shared, according to a news release.

Ocean also met Grousbeck during the event, tried on a Boston Celtics championship ring and received an invitation to attend a game with DeLutrie.

"It was great to have so many folks come out to support youth mentoring and enjoy really interesting discussions that touched upon sports, investing, and the power of mentors to help us reach our goals," said BBBSCT President & CEO Andy Fleischmann, according to a news release. "Every dollar raised will support Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring."

Jill Scalisi and Ryan McGrath of J.P. Morgan Private Bank of Greenwich, along with Grousbeck and Sean Silva of Ares Management, served on the event organizing committee.