Bridges Homeward Hosts 2026 Circle of Friends Celebration and Gala at Fenway Park

Bridges Homeward held its 2026 Annual Circle of Friends Celebration and Gala at historic Fenway Park in Boston. The evening brought together community leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate compassion, leadership, and a shared commitment to strengthening the lives of children and families. Bridges Homeward, headquartered in Cambridge, is a nonprofit with a mission to provide high quality support and advocacy for children, adults, and families, under its core belief that everyone deserves safe, secure, and permanent family.

This year’s gala honored Safelite and Foster Love for their outstanding dedication to advancing the wellbeing of youth and families. The event featured the presentation of two distinguished awards rooted in the longstanding mission of Bridges Homeward.

The Avon Award, which traces its origins to 1874 when founder James Huntington established the Avon Home in Cambridge to care for orphaned children, was presented to Safelite. Since 2011, the award has recognized organizations demonstrating exceptional vision and compassion in service to families and youth.

The Huntington Award, named for Bridges Homeward’s founder and his enduring legacy of community leadership, was presented to Foster Love. This award honors organizations whose work reflects unwavering dedication to supporting vulnerable children in Massachusetts and beyond.

“We are honored to gather at such an iconic venue to celebrate partners who embody the heart of our mission,” said Yoyo Yau, CEO of Bridges Homeward. “Safelite and Foster Love have demonstrated what is possible when compassion meets action. Their leadership strengthens communities and creates meaningful, lasting change for children and families.”

Wendy Bradshaw, Executive Director of Community Affairs at Safelite, shared her appreciation: “It is a privilege to be recognized by Bridges Homeward, an organization whose history and impact inspire all of us working to support families. We are proud to stand alongside partners who are equally committed to building brighter futures for young people.”

Gianna Mulkay, Executive Director of Foster Love, reflected on the organization’s mission: “Receiving the Huntington Award is deeply meaningful to our team. Bridges Homeward’s legacy reminds us that lasting change begins with bold action and compassion. We are grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to continue advocating for children in need.”

The Circle of Friends Celebration and Gala highlights more than 150 years of Bridges Homeward’s service to children and families, honoring those who continue to advance its mission today.

For more information about supporting the Bridges Homeward mission, please visit www.BridgesHomeward.com.

About Bridges Homeward
Bridges Homeward is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and families through innovative programs and services that promote safety, stability, and opportunity. Founded in 1874, the organization continues to serve as a leader in child and family wellbeing across Massachusetts.

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Photo Information:

Photo 1: Pictured at the 2026 Bridges Homeward Circle of Friends Celebration & Gala are (left to right) Bridges Homeward Officer Manager Beckey Fischer, Safelite Regional Vice President Larry Gallagher, Foster Love Development Manager Scott Urata, Foster Love CEO Gianna Mulkay, CEO of Foster Love, Event Emcee Susan Wornick, Bridges Homeward CEO Yoyo Yau.