Evening of Impact 2026: A Night of Connection, Courage, and Community

On April 24, 2026, more than 250 supporters gathered at the Lodge at Ironwoods for Fight Club’s fourth annual fundraiser, Evening of Impact. Dressed in boots and denim, the night carried a laid-back, welcoming feel—but the purpose behind it was anything but casual.

This evening was about one thing: making sure no teen fights alone.

Fight Club exists to create safe spaces where teens can open up without judgment—spaces where they are seen, heard, and supported by their peers. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, this year’s event raised over $200,000 to help expand that mission even further.

Growing the Impact

The funds raised during Evening of Impact directly fuel the growth of Fight Club programs. Our goal for the coming year is ambitious: to double the number of teens we serve by expanding groups across middle school, high school, and college—reaching both boys and girls at every level.

These dollars make a tangible difference. They provide safe, neutral spaces for groups to meet, cover essential resources like food, and support the launch of new groups. They also strengthen our partnership with KidsTLC, ensuring that licensed therapists are present at Fight Club meetings.

For teens who need an extra layer of support, these funds go even further—covering the cost of their first two therapy sessions with a KidsTLC professional. It’s one more way we ensure that every teen has access to the care they need.

Moments That Moved the Room

The evening was filled with laughter, tears, and powerful reminders of why this work matters.

One highlight came from Lia Boone, therapist at KidsTLC, who shared about her experience working alongside Fight Club groups and the unique role mental health professionals play in supporting them. As she explained:

“What makes these Fight Club groups so powerful is that they are peer-driven. Teens are connecting in real and honest ways—sharing struggles, supporting one another, and building trust. My role is to help protect that environment… without taking away from the peer-to-peer connection that makes this so impactful.”

Her words reinforced what makes Fight Club so unique: a model where teens lead, connect, and support each other—while trained professionals help ensure those spaces remain safe and healthy.

Another deeply moving moment came from Tiffany Whitney, Fight Club’s VP of Mission Development. Tiffany spoke about the loss of her teenage son, Ryan, in 2024, and how Fight Club has helped his friends and younger brother navigate their grief. Through Fight Club, they’ve learned not only how to support one another—but how to show up for the Whitney family in meaningful ways, from everyday acts of service to simply being present.

Their story is a powerful example of what Fight Club is all about: community, connection, and carrying one another through life’s hardest moments.

Teen Voices at the Center

The most impactful part of the night, as always, came from the teens themselves.

This year, 18 teens took the stage—representing middle school, high school, and college Fight Club groups. Each shared their experiences with honesty and courage, reminding everyone in the room why this mission matters so deeply.

One standout voice was Conor Riley, the sole middle school speaker, who captivated the audience with his authenticity. Conor shared how Fight Club has helped him learn to express his emotions, develop empathy, and understand that everyone is going through something.

He spoke about a lesson from his leader, Mr. Claxton, that perfectly captures the heart of Fight Club:

We carry each other’s burdens, and we do life together.

Honoring Leadership in Action

This year also marked a special milestone as we honored our very first Volunteer of the Year: Dustin Hickle.

Dustin leads the Olathe South boys Fight Club group (Class of 2028), which began in the wake of losing their friend Ryan Whitney. What started as a group of 20 boys has grown to 49—bringing together students from all different circles and backgrounds.

His leadership is a testament to the power of showing up. Because of Dustin’s dedication, these boys have a space to connect, support one another, and heal together.

A Meaningful Closing

The evening concluded with a powerful performance by Jocelyn Salter, a member of the Blue Valley High School girls Class of 2029 Fight Club group led by Kortney Bevins. Jocelyn performed “That’s What I’ll Be” by Baylee Lynn, a song rooted in unconditional support—promising to be a steady presence, a guide, or a light when someone is struggling. It was a fitting close to a night centered on showing up for one another and reminding every teen that they don’t have to face life alone.

A Community Effort

This was our best year yet—not just in funds raised, but in the strength of the community behind it.

We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, including our top-tier sponsor Watco, as well as our Stronger Together sponsors, bar sponsor, and Join the Fight sponsors. Your generosity makes this mission possible.

To our donors, volunteers, students, and every single attendee—thank you. Because of you, more teens will have a place to belong.

Looking Ahead

We’re just getting started.

Next year’s Evening of Impact will be announced soon, and we can’t wait to continue growing this movement together.

If you weren’t able to attend but would still like to support Fight Club, you can make a donation through our website. And be sure to check out the event recap video below to experience the impact of the night.

Because together, we are making sure that no teen fights alone.