Oliver Gaudreau and Kushlan photos
The Annual Recognition Dinner
In 1927, the Association feted the Bristol
High School basketball team and continued for the following ten
years. In 1937, Charles “Stretch” Murphy became the
Executive Director of the Club and inaugurated the Recognition
Banquet. This affair was held for the purpose of recognizing and
honoring Boys Club members who have made outstanding achievements
in athletic, recreational and educational activities during the
year.
In 1948, this event became known as The Annual
Recognition Dinner and included the naming of the “Boy of
the Year”. This award was given to the member of the club
that had distinguished himself in the areas of character,
achievement and leadership. This award become a very prestigious
honor for the young men of Bristol. Several current OM’s are
past recipients and other recipients have made significant
contributions to business and the city.
This annual award continued until 1998, at
which time it became known as The Youth of the Year Award, which
now honors an outstanding boy or girl. The Annual Recognition
Dinner has also evolved over the years. Currently, in addition to
honoring the Youth of the Year, this event recognizes the
accomplishments and achievements of several individuals and teams
involved with the Bristol Boys & Girls Club. This past
year’s event included 400 club members, volunteers, staff
and supporters of the Bristol Boys & Girls Club.