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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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)