A Portrait of Generosity and Commitment to Kids’ Health

It was an unforgettable moment—when Connecticut Children’s All-Star Patient Ambassador Ana surprised legendary UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma with a heartfelt gift at this year’s Geno for the Kids charity dinner. Ana, a talented young artist and cancer survivor, created a stunning portrait of Coach Geno that turned out to be the night’s hottest auction item. After Geno signed the painting, bidding kicked off fast and fierce.

When it came down to the final two bidders—each offering $12,000—Ana didn’t hesitate. She generously offered to create a second painting, raising an incredible $24,000 to support research and care for her fellow patients.

Moments like that are what make the Geno for the Kids Charity Series so special.

A Record-breaking Year for Kids

This year’s Geno for the Kids Charity Series brought in a record-breaking $825,000 to benefit Connecticut Children’s Greatest Need Children’s Fund. At May’s beach-themed charity dinner at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, guests didn’t just open their hearts and wallets, they also got the chance to mingle with Azzi Fudd, KK Arnold, and other stars of the UConn women’s basketball team. A highlight of the evening? A lively panel discussion with Geno and his players, who shared stories, laughs, and the personal connections they’ve made with kids and families at Connecticut Children’s.

UConn WBB team with kids at Geno dinner 2025

Geno Auriemma and All-Star Daniela smiliing

Golf, Hoops, and Good Fun

June’s tournament at the Hartford Golf Club was not just your average day on the greens. In addition to raising money for Connecticut Children’s and hobnobbing with patient families, golfers brave enough to trade their putters for jump shots tested their skills against some of the members of UConn’s National Championship-winning team. (Not exactly a fair matchup, but it was spirited and fun.)

And just like a well-timed crossover on the court, this year’s second tournament at Norwalk’s Shorehaven Golf Club brought the Geno for the Kids Charity Series to Fairfield County for the first time. This expansion brought new supporters and more opportunities to champion world-class care for kids across the state.

Geno speaking with All-Star Carter smiling

Looking Ahead to 25 Years of Impact

In 2002, a small group of golfers decided to raise money for Connecticut Children’s and asked legendary coach Geno Auriemma to speak at their tournament. Fast-forward to today and that initial golf tournament that raised $10,000 is now an annual event that has raised over $5 million to support patients and families at Connecticut Children’s.

We’re already counting down to 2026, when Geno for the Kids will celebrate 25 years of unforgettable moments, game-changing generosity, and the belief that every child deserves the best possible medical care, close to home. Until then, thank you to presenting sponsor Freeman and everyone who helped make this season a slam dunk for kids.

Relieve the Excitement

Geno for the Kids Charity Series Committee

Join us for Geno for the Kids and explore everything our Charity Series has in store—events, impact, sponsorship opportunities, and more.

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Guests bidding on an auction item and holding up their paddle

May 30

Geno for the Kids Charity Dinner

Geno for the Kids brings together patient families, supporters, and friends for a great cause. Led by Hall of Fame UConn Women's Basketball Coach Geno...

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Jun 16

Geno for the Kids Charity Golf Tournament

Geno for the Kids Turns 25! At Geno for the Kids, we're driven by a simple yet powerful belief: every child deserves a chance at a healthier, brighter...

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Oct 5

Geno for the Kids Shorehaven Golf Tournament & Dinner

At Geno for the Kids, we're driven by a simple yet powerful belief: every child deserves a chance at a healthier, brighter future. Led by Coach Geno...

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PSA to Our Valued Supporters

A Portrait of Generosity and Commitment to Kids’ Health

A Record-breaking Year for Kids

Golf, Hoops, and Good Fun

Looking Ahead to 25 Years of Impact

Relieve the Excitement

Join us for Geno for the Kids and explore everything our Charity Series has in store—events, impact, sponsorship opportunities, and more.

Save the Dates and Register Today

Geno for the Kids Charity Dinner

Geno for the Kids Charity Golf Tournament

Geno for the Kids Shorehaven Golf Tournament & Dinner

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