Bowties & Blazers 2026: A Night Where Style Met Service

Every year, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center gathers supporters, partners, and community leaders for an evening that celebrates more than fashion; it celebrates the people and organizations committed to changing lives across Memphis.

On June 20, Bowties & Blazers 2026 once again brought that vision to life under this year's inspiring theme, "Hands to the Community. Curated in Style." Hosted at The Guest House at Graceland, the evening united nonprofit leaders, corporate sponsors, elected officials, volunteers, families, and supporters for a memorable celebration of community impact, collaboration, and hope.

One of the evening's most memorable moments was the community runway, where representatives from organizations across Memphis proudly took the stage, demonstrating that collaboration is one of our city's greatest strengths. Participating organizations included CTC Jr. Firefighter Foundation, Boys to Men of Memphis Mentoring Program, STS Enterprise, Women's Foundation for a Greater Memphis, Legacy of Legends Community Development Corporation, Princeton James Productions, New Memphis, Heal 901, Ladies in Need Can Survive (LINCS), Warriors Center, Peer Power, 2U Community Salvation Foundation, Agape Child & Family Services, The Gentlemen's League, Customized Veterans Group, Beyond Educating Foundation, Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis, CodeCrew, Elite Performance Foundation, Dress for Success Memphis, Gestalt Community Schools, Young Actors Guild Dance and Theatre Academy, and Memphis Allies.

Each walk down the runway told a story, not just of style, but of service. Every participant

represented the collective effort required to build safer neighborhoods, create opportunities for young people, and invest in the future of our city. The evening served as a reminder that real transformation happens when communities come together with a shared purpose.

Guests enjoyed an unforgettable program featuring actor Taye Diggs, whose presence helped elevate the evening's celebration of community leadership and service. The event also featured the creativity and expertise of celebrity stylists K. Newsom and Odie Tolbert, and the energy of host Twana Johnson, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter, inspiration, and meaningful connection. Together, they helped make Bowties & Blazers 2026 a celebration that reflected the resilience, talent, and generosity found throughout Memphis.

Bowties & Blazers 2026 was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and partners, including Memphis Allies, Shelby County Sheriff's Office, The Sims Financial Group, My Faith Inc., MCK Behavior Services, Women's Foundation for a Greater Memphis, Brown Missionary Baptist Church, Dillard's, Buckner Brooks & Heights Entertainment, Paschal Construction LLC, SCDP, K. Newsom Style Concierge, Cardi Fitness, Kreative Koncepts Event Management, and Bieferc+Chic. Their investment helps ensure that the Christopher A. Pugh II Center can continue providing workforce development, mentorship, career readiness, and life-changing opportunities for young men throughout our community.

While the runway has ended, the work continues every day. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, volunteer hour given, and donation made helps transform lives by equipping young men with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.

To everyone who attended, volunteered, partnered with us, or supported this year's event, thank you for believing in our mission. Together, we proved that Hands to the Community. Curated in Style. It is more than a theme; it is a commitment to building a stronger Memphis through collaboration, compassion, and purpose