Special Events
City of Champions Gala
The 2025 CWS Gala was a powerful celebration of our participants’ achievements and the impact of career pathways and economic opportunity. Thank you to all who joined us in making it a success!
About the Event
On September 25, 2025, the City of Champions Gala was a truly inspiring evening, bringing together leaders, advocates, and community members to celebrate the life-changing work of CWS. The event highlighted the organization’s deep impact on individuals and families—instilling pride in participants and creating opportunities that carry forward for generations.
Governor Maura Healey was honored with the Helen Keller Leadership Award, a distinction that reflects both her commitment to inclusive leadership and the legacy of Helen Keller, a long-time Advisory Board member of CWS.
This year’s Participant of the Year was Kandia Bleach, whose remarkable journey embodies the resilience and determination at the heart of the CWS mission. Kandia’s success was made possible through the support of her employer, National Grid, which was recognized with the Workforce Impact Award for its dedication to empowering participants.
Former Boston Mayor Ray Flynn, accompanied by his wife Kathy and son, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn, received the Public Service Award, recognizing his decades of dedication to the city and its residents.
Legendary Boston Celtic M.L. Carr was celebrated with the Civic Responsibility Award, honoring his long-standing commitment to community service and leadership both on and off the court.
The evening was guided with warmth and energy by Channel 5 news anchor Jessica Brown, who served as Master of Ceremonies.
The heartfelt acceptance speeches from honorees were particularly moving, capturing the spirit of CWS and reminding all in attendance of the lasting impact the programs have on participants, their families, and future generations.
We extend our deepest thanks to all the guests and donors who attended and supported the gala. Your generosity makes this important work possible.
Governor Maura Healey was honored with the Helen Keller Leadership Award, a distinction that reflects both her commitment to inclusive leadership and the legacy of Helen Keller, a long-time Advisory Board member of CWS.
This year’s Participant of the Year was Kandia Bleach, whose remarkable journey embodies the resilience and determination at the heart of the CWS mission. Kandia’s success was made possible through the support of her employer, National Grid, which was recognized with the Workforce Impact Award for its dedication to empowering participants.
Former Boston Mayor Ray Flynn, accompanied by his wife Kathy and son, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn, received the Public Service Award, recognizing his decades of dedication to the city and its residents.
Legendary Boston Celtic M.L. Carr was celebrated with the Civic Responsibility Award, honoring his long-standing commitment to community service and leadership both on and off the court.
The evening was guided with warmth and energy by Channel 5 news anchor Jessica Brown, who served as Master of Ceremonies.
The heartfelt acceptance speeches from honorees were particularly moving, capturing the spirit of CWS and reminding all in attendance of the lasting impact the programs have on participants, their families, and future generations.
We extend our deepest thanks to all the guests and donors who attended and supported the gala. Your generosity makes this important work possible.
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