Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer County Community Events

October 1st, 2026 at 6:00pm

Enjoy a night of food, drinks, and festivities as we celebrate 20 years of celebrating mentorship and honor our Bigs of the Year and Community Partner of the Year at our exciting new venue!

📍 Patriots Theater at the War Memorial
1 Memorial Drive
Trenton, NJ 08608

For sponsorship opportunities and restaurant partnerships please email development@mercerbbbs.org or call us at (609) 656-1000.


Meet Our 20th Anniversary Legacy Circle

As we celebrate 20 years of the Autumn Culinaire, we're looking back at some of the remarkable Bigs, partners and champions who have been part of the event's history. Throughout the coming weeks, we'll be sharing their stories and celebrating the impact they've had on BBBS-Mercer and the young people we serve.

Check back as we continue to introduce this year's Legacy Circle.

  • Deb Runyon

    Deb’s connection to BBBS Mercer spans more than 30 years, beginning when she became a Big. She later joined the Board of Trustees, where she has served for more than 25 years, including as Board President. Her lifelong commitment to mentorship continues to inspire her advocacy for BBBS and the young people we serve.

  • Gregory S. Blair

    Gregory has been a longtime supporter of BBBS Mercer and the Autumn Culinaire, including previously serving as Co-Chair of the event alongside his brother, Jack Blair, a former Big Brother. Gregory believes that with opportunity, encouragement, and proper guidance, young people can build brighter futures.


  • Ed Benson

    For more than 20 years, Ed has championed BBBS Mercer through his service on the Board of Directors, fundraising, and community engagement. A longtime advocate for youth, Ed believes every young person deserves a caring adult who will listen, build trust, and provide guidance.

  • Tom Irwin

    Tom joined the BBBS Mercer Board in 1993 and has served in numerous leadership roles, including Board President. He helped establish Solvay’s workplace mentoring program and personally mentored three students. A longtime advocate for mentorship, Tom believes in the lasting impact of giving young people positive role models and encourages others to “Volunteer. Don’t wait until you think you may have more time.”

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Platinum – $10,000

  • Premium seating for 12 with branded banner

  • Full-page program ad

  • Exclusive stage signage

  • Sponsor feature in press release

  • Logo and link on event website

Gold – $5,000

  • Seating for 10 with branded signage

  • Full-page program ad

  • Sponsor recognition in event materials

  • Press release listing

  • Logo and link on event website

Silver – $2,500

  • Seating for 8 with logo signage

  • Half-page program ad

  • Sponsor recognition in event materials

  • Press release listing

  • Logo on event website

Bronze – $1,500

  • Tickets for 6 at Taste & Mingle

  • Quarter-page program ad

  • Listing on event signage

Steel – $500

  • Tickets for 2 at Taste & Mingle

  • Listing in event program

  • Listing on event signage

Journal Advertising

·       Full Page: $300 (5.5” W x 8.5” H)

·       1/2 Page: $200 (5.5” W x 4.25” H)

·       1/4 Page: $100 (5.5” W x 2.75” H)