37th Annual Unity Ball: 37th Annual Unity Ball: A Night of Culture & Community in St. Louis

In every thriving city, there are moments where culture, purpose, and celebration intersect to create something truly magical. For St. Louis, that moment is the 37th Annual Unity Ball.

Better Family Life invites you to be part of a spectacular evening dedicated to uplifting our neighborhoods and honoring those who make a difference. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, we will gather at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel for the 37th Annual Unity Ball—a night of elegance, inspiration, and shared vision.

This isn’t just a gala; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that we are committed to building strong families and vibrant communities by providing hope, comprehensive services, and meaningful opportunities. Whether you don your finest black tie or your most regal African attire, your presence helps weave the fabric of a stronger future for us all.

A Legacy of Building Better Families

Guests celebrating culture and community at past Unity Ball events.

Since its founding in 1983, Better Family Life (BFL) has been a cornerstone of the St. Louis community. As a 501(c)3 community development corporation, BFL works tirelessly to offer solutions that stabilize families and revitalize neighborhoods.

The Unity Ball serves as a critical engine for this mission. Funds raised during this evening go directly toward supporting programs that offer housing assistance, employment training, youth development, and cultural arts education. When you purchase a ticket or sponsor a table, you aren’t just buying dinner; you are investing in the potential of your neighbors.

What to Expect at the 37th Annual Unity Ball

Get ready for an evening that engages all your senses. The night kicks off at 5:30 PM with a Silent Auction in the Ballroom Lobby, where you can bid on unique items while mingling with fellow community leaders. The main event begins at 6:30 PM in the Concourse Ballroom.

Honoring Excellence

One of the highlights of the Unity Ball is the recognition of individuals who have dedicated their lives to service and excellence. This year, we are proud to honor a distinguished group of leaders:

• Wendell Kimbrough (Retired CEO, ARCHS) will receive the Founders Lifetime Achievement Award for his enduring impact on community resources.
• Cynthia Williams (Retired Assistant Dean, Washington University) will be honored with the Legacy Award for her decades of building community partnerships.
• Brian “DJ KUT” Nelson (Radio Host) receives the Cultural Icon Award, celebrating his voice and influence in our cultural landscape.
• Dr. Kendra Holmes (President & CEO, Affinia Healthcare) is one of our distinguished 2026 Honorees.

We are also thrilled to have violinist Bell Darris guiding us through the evening as our Mistress of Ceremony.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The Unity Ball is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. We encourage guests to embrace the spirit of the evening through their attire—choose between stunning African Attire or formal Black Tie.

Expect powerful musical performances and cultural showcases that reflect the rich heritage we celebrate. It’s a party with a purpose, where joy and advocacy go hand in hand.

Sponsorship: Be a Pillar of Unity

For businesses and organizations, the Unity Ball offers a unique platform to demonstrate corporate social responsibility. Sponsorship isn’t just about logo placement; it’s about aligning your brand with values of equity, growth, and community stability.

We offer various levels of engagement to suit different organizations:

• Presenting Sponsor ($25,000): Receive top-tier visibility, including a 30-second video commercial, VIP reception access, and premier seating.
• Unity Champion ($15,000) & Innovation ($10,000) Sponsors: Enjoy high-profile signage, full-page ads, and VIP treatment.
• Pillars of Unity ($7,500) & Unity Circle ($5,000) Sponsors: Gain significant exposure and table seating for your team.
• Small Business & Individual Opportunities: From the Unity Friend Sponsor ($2,500) to the Entertainment Sponsor ($500), there is a level for everyone who wants to contribute.

By becoming a sponsor, you help ensure that BFL can continue its vital work throughout the year.

Download Sponsorship deck.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Night

Community is not a spectator sport. It requires active participation, shared resources, and a collective belief that we can do better together. The 37th Annual Unity Ball is your opportunity to stand with those who are doing the heavy lifting in our neighborhoods.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026
• Time: 6:30 PM (Silent Auction starts at 5:30 PM)
• Location: Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel, 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO 63134
• Tickets: Single Ticket: $150 | Table of 10: $1,500

Let’s come together to celebrate our past, honor our present leaders, and fund a brighter future.

Ready to make an impact?
Visit betterfamilylife.org/unityball today to purchase your tickets or secure your sponsorship. We look forward to celebrating with you!

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