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Buy Your LEAP Year Event Tickets

Join us on Thursday, February 27th, for our 30th Anniversary LEAP Year Event (with additional conversations on Thursday, February 20th & Saturday, March 2nd)!

LEAP Year Event Reception - Join us at the Dixwell Community (Q) House for our Reception from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. We are pleased to honor Ann Baker Pepe and Ed Cleary, Co-Board Chairs, with the LEAP Community Leadership Award. We will hear from LEAP supporters, staff, and counselors. Parking assistance is available.

Click here to download a PDF of the invitation. Please reference this page for the most up-to-date information.

LEAP Year Event Schedule

To ensure you don't miss a moment of this event, please note the following schedule:

 

Schedule of Events - Thursday, February 27, 2025

  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Reception at the Dixwell Community (Q) House. Mingle with fellow attendees, enjoy hors d'oeuvres and refreshments, and hear from LEAP's Executive Director and counselors.

  • 7:30 PM: Guests arrive at their chosen dinner location (host's home or restaurant). Engage in stimulating conversations with your Guest of Honor and fellow attendees over a delicious meal.

  • 9:30 PM: Dinner conversations conclude.

 

Important Notes:

  • Dinner-Included Tickets: Required for dinners. Your host will graciously provide the meal. Each dinner is limited to approximately 20 attendees for a more intimate and engaging experience.

  • COVID-19 Precautions: Participants may be required to take an at-home COVID test before attending dinner. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our community safe.

 

Alternative Dates:

  • Thursday, February 20, 2025: Dinner begins at 7:30 PM.

  • Saturday, March 1, 2025: Dinner begins at 7:00 PM.

Please join us for the Reception on Thursday, February 27th!

LYE Schedule

Dinner Parties
Thursday, February 27th at 7:30pm

Conversation Options
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1. Women's Work

Did you know that medical research historically focused almost exclusively on men? Join us for a captivating talk by Carolyn Mazure, a leading voice in women's health research. Carolyn Mazure, the first Chair of the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, will share groundbreaking insights from her 30+ years leading Women’s Health Research at Yale and discuss the vital importance of including women in health studies.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Carolyn Mazure's background and her invaluable research at Yale.

Hosted by Barbara Riley, Guilford

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2. Lessons in Leadership

In an era where Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are facing unprecedented challenges, how can we ensure the legal profession reflects the rich diversity of our society? Join Dean of UConn Law Eboni Nelson for a timely discussion on her personal and professional journey, the importance of DEI in law, and strategies for overcoming obstacles to create a more just and equitable legal system.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Eboni Nelson's extensive history with law and her journey to becoming Dean of UConn Law.  

Hosted by Elena Grewal & Eleazar Lanzot, New Haven​

 

3. A Remarkable Life (BOOK)

Experience history come alive through the life and times of Guido Calabresi, a titan of American law. Join Norman Silber, the author of Outside In, for an intimate exploration of Judge Calabresi's remarkable story, from his childhood in Italy to the halls of Yale and the United States Court of Appeals. Discover the man behind the legend in this captivating blend of oral history, biography, and historical context.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Normal Silber's dedication to legal scholarship in his impressive two-volume work exploring the life and influence of Judge Guido Calabresi.

Hosted by Sarah Bilston & Daniel Markovits, New Haven

 

4. Investing in the Future of our Planet

Looking for real-world solutions to the climate crisis? Explore the exciting work happening at ClimateHaven, a nonprofit hub for climate tech entrepreneurs. Hear from CEO Justine Lee, who brings a wealth of experience in law and venture capital, about how ClimateHaven is fostering the next generation of technologies to create a more sustainable world.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Watch Justine Lee talk about climate change, its repercussions, and how ClimateHaven is tackling these issues in this interview with the New Haven Independent.

Hosted by Shelley & Gordon Geballe, Branford​

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5. A Writing Life (BOOK)

What makes a novel truly captivating? Join Betsy Lerner, a celebrated author and literary agent with over 30 years in the publishing industry, for an engaging exploration of the anatomy of a novel. From crafting compelling characters to building suspenseful plots, Betsy will share her insights and expertise, drawing on her own successful books like Shred Sisters and The Forest for the Trees.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Watch Betsy Lerner discuss the process of writing her first novel, Shred Sisters, in this CBS interview.

Hosted by Meg & George Knight, New Haven​

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6. Quandaries and Quagmires

How have shifting social and political norms changed our interactions? Join Philip Galanes, renowned advice columnist for The New York Times, for a fascinating exploration of modern etiquette in a changing world. Based on his popular column and book, Social Q's, this session will delve into the evolving rules of engagement and offer practical advice for navigating social challenges with grace and confidence.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Listen to Philip Galanes talk about what makes good advice in this New York Times podcast.

Hosted by Alexandra Daum & Alex Kleiner, New Haven​

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7. Moral Movement Foward (BOOK)

Can we bridge divides and build a powerful movement for economic justice? Hear from Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II, a national leader in the fight for equality, as he discusses the critical importance of uniting across racial and generational lines to challenge systemic poverty. Drawing from his book White Poverty and his extensive experience in social justice advocacy, Rev. Barber will inspire and empower attendees to join the fight for a more just and equitable America.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Reverend Barber's website for his organization, Repairers of the Breach, which focuses on training community leaders and equipping them to advocate for social justice.  

Hosted by Deborah Dyett Desir & Gary Desir, Woodbridge.​

 

8. Natural Immersion

Go behind the lens with Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ann Johnson Prum! Discover the magic of bringing nature to the screen as Ann shares her experiences creating captivating documentaries like Born Wild: The Next Generation. With clips and stories from her latest films, Bugs that Rule the World and Every Little Thing, this dinner offers a fascinating glimpse into the art of wildlife filmmaking and its power to inspire conservation.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Get an in-depth look at Ann Johnson Prum's cinematic process in this short film by BBC America

Hosted by Patricia Rossi & Robert King, New Haven​

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9. Artificial Intelligence, Genuine Concerns

The AI revolution is here. Are you ready? Join Kyle Jensen, Associate Dean at Yale School of Management (SOM), for a mind-expanding exploration of the exploding AI universe. Jensen, an entrepreneur, developer, and scientist, will delve into the transformative power of AI to improve our lives.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Kyle Jensen's previous projects before joining Yale SOM and some of his current works. 

Hosted by Patricia & G. Davis Gammon, Hamden​

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10. Revolutionary Fashion (BOOK)

Discover the surprising ways women used fashion to fight for freedom during the French Revolution! Join art historian Anne Higonnet, author of Liberty, Equality, Fashion, as she reveals the courageous stories of women like Joséphine Bonaparte, who used clothing and style as tools of resistance against oppression. Explore the fascinating history of sartorial revolt, from flowing dresses and cropped hair to the rise of the handbag, and uncover the hidden power of fashion in times of turmoil.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read this interview Anne Higonnet did with Columbia News discussing her book and the parallels between historical fashion and the fashion of today.

Hosted by Helen Kauder & Barry Nalebuff, New Haven​

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11. Parting the Clouds (BOOK)

Ever wonder how the landmark Paris Climate Agreement came together? Join Todd Stern, the U.S. lead negotiator, for a fascinating inside look at the years of complex, multinational negotiations that led to this historic accord. Stern, author of Landing the Paris Climate Agreement and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, will share his firsthand account of the challenges, triumphs, and key players involved in shaping this crucial agreement for our planet's future.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Watch Todd Stern discuss why the landmark agreement still matters, and why international climate cooperation is possible in today’s fractured geopolitical environment.

Hosted by Susan Sawyer & Michael Kaplan, New Haven​

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12. Building Equitable Communities

How can we ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable, and quality housing? Join Karen DuBois-Walton, a leading voice in housing and community development, for a critical conversation on building a more equitable housing landscape. With insights from her leadership at The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and Elm City Communities, DuBois-Walton will explore innovative solutions and strategies for addressing the housing crisis.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Karen DuBois-Walton's background in New Haven and her plan to develop more sustainable communities.

Hosted by Ellen Shuman & Doug Rae, New Haven​

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13. Listen Carefully (BOOK)

Are we sleepwalking towards fascism? Join renowned philosopher Jason Stanley, author of Erasing History, for a chilling exploration of the warning signs of fascism and how it takes root in seemingly democratic societies. Drawing on his expertise in the philosophy of language, Stanley will expose the subtle tactics used to manipulate public opinion and rewrite history, empowering us to recognize and resist the rise of authoritarianism.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Listen to this podcast interview where Jason Stanley speaks with KPFA about his views on authoritarianism, history, and education.

Hosted by Mira Debs, Hamden

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14. Black History Matters

Discover the hidden histories often left out of textbooks. Join Jeffrey Fletcher, founder of the Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African-American History Museum, for a compelling exploration of African-American history through the lens of rarely seen artifacts. Fletcher will share powerful stories of resilience, resistance, and triumph, revealing the full spectrum of the African-American experience, from the darkest chapters to the brightest moments of progress.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out this interview with WTNH, where Jeffrey Fletcher opens up about how his museum came to be and the artifacts that make up the space. 

Hosted by Chaz Warner, Alison Bonds & Larry Levine at the Dixwell Community (Q) House, New Haven​

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15. Time Lines (BOOK)

How does the past inspire the future? Join Eeva-Liisa Pelkonen, Assistant Dean and Professor at the Yale School of Architecture, for a fascinating exploration of "untimely moderns" – those who dared to challenge the conventions of 20th-century architecture. Drawing from her book Untimely Moderns, Pelkonen will delve into the intellectual culture of Yale and its iconic architecture, revealing how a diverse group of thinkers reimagined the past to create innovative and timeless designs.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Eeva-Liisa Pelkonen's website and get a closer look at her background, publications, and current projects.  

Hosted by JoAnn & Tony Scillia at Adriana’s Restaurant, New Haven

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16. Live, From New Haven!

From the Church Street South Housing Project to the top of the iTunes charts, Manny James's musical journey is an inspiration. Join this talented R&B vocalist for an unforgettable evening of soulful music and heartfelt storytelling. Discover the artist behind the acclaimed album Just Being Honest and experience the power of music to uplift and connect.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out this interview with Compulsive Maganize and get a glimpse into Manny James' personal and professional life, offering a deeper understanding of his motivations, influences, and future plans in music.

Hosted by Clifton Watson & Firehouse 12, New Haven

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17. People-Driven Pharma

Learn about the New Haven company dedicated to making a difference in the lives of patients with difficult-to-treat diseases—BioHaven! Join CEO Vlad Coric for an inspiring look at how Biohaven is pushing the boundaries of science to develop new therapies. Coric's extensive experience in drug discovery and clinical development, honed at Yale School of Medicine and Bristol-Myers Squibb, provides a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of biopharmaceutical innovation.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read this letter from Dr. Coric regarding his company's commitment to innovative science and patient care and their dedication to transforming the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. Check out the interviews linked on the page, too!

Hosted by Sid Phillips at Zinc, New Haven​

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18. Madame President

From Yale graduate student to the first female Yale President, Maurie McInnis has come full circle. Join her for an intimate conversation about her journey, her deep connection to Yale, and her ambitious plans for the University's future. Learn how her background in art history and her extensive experience in university leadership have shaped her vision for Yale as a leading institution in the 21st century.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Watch this interview with Suborno Bari, the youngest person ever accepted into NYU, and Maurie McInnis, where she discusses her experience growing up in the American South and how that influences her work today. 

Hosted by Kerwin Charles at Yale School of Management, New Haven

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19. Polling Perspectives

The 2024 election revealed the growing importance of the Latino vote in American politics. Join Matt A. Barreto, President and Founding Partner of BSP Research and Professor of Political Science & Chicana/o and Central American Studies at UCLA, for a captivating analysis of Latino voting patterns. Barreto will draw on his extensive experience as a renowned pollster, political scientist, and advisor to the Harris-Walz campaign to provide a nuanced understanding of the factors that influenced this dynamic electorate.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Matt Barreto's extensive background as a professor of political science at UCLA, including links to his other projects. 

Hosted by Kasia Lipska & Jake Halpern, New Haven​

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20. Stroll Through the Galleries - Starts at 6:45pm

Immerse yourself in the world of European art at the Yale Art Gallery! Join Director Stephanie Wiles for a captivating tour of the collection, featuring recent acquisitions and fascinating loans. Wiles, an expert in Old Master drawings and prints, will share her insights into the art and the challenges of building a world-class collection. Following this private tour, savor a delicious dinner at the renowned Union League Café, just steps away on Chapel Street. Please note that the tour begins at 6:45 pm, so please arrive promptly. 

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out this article by the Yale News celebrating Stephanie Wiles leadership and her achievements during her first term.

Hosted by Stephanie Green & Eric Grubman and Union League Café, New Haven

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21. Making a Great City

Explore what makes New Haven a great city with Alex Twining, CEO of Twining Properties. Alex focuses on urban mixed-use apartment, office, lab, hotel, and retail development at transit nodes along the Northeast Corridor. Working on his first development in the 1970s as a Yale student, the next 50 years developing in Metro Boston, NYC & DC, Alex has returned to transform Winchester Center into the place to live, work, and play in New Haven. With deep family roots at Yale and in New Haven, Twining will share his hopes and dreams for the city and the region.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Alex Twining's website, where you can read his bio and learn more about his approach to property development.

Hosted by Ilene Cooke & David Newton at Portofino's, New Haven

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22. Oil for the Mind and the Soul

Discover the brain-boosting power of olive oil! Recent research suggests that a daily dose of this liquid gold can improve cognitive function. Join Tassos Kyriakides, New Haven's beloved Olive Oil Sommelier, to learn about the science behind this exciting discovery and how to select the most flavorful and high-quality olive oils for optimal health benefits.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Tassos Kyriakides' groundbreaking research on olive oil and the multifaceted nature of olive oil's impact on health, the environment, and society.

Hosted by Zehra & Huned Patwa, Hamden

 

23. History for Gen Z

Get ready for a fresh perspective on history and social justice! Kahlil Greene, "The Gen Z Historian," is making waves with his engaging and informative social media content. Twice Emmy-nominated and a Peabody Award winner, Greene will share his passion for uncovering hidden histories and inspiring young people to become informed and engaged citizens.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Kahlil Greene's website, including links to his social media, several articles he's been featured in, and his publications. 

Hosted by Julie Wilson, New Haven​

Additional Dinner Parties
Thursday, February 20th & Saturday, March 1st
Join us for our LEAP Year Event Reception at the Dixwell Community (Q) House on Thursday, February 27th from 5:00 - 7:00pm

Thursday, February 20th

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24. Getting the Story Straight - Thursday, February 20th at 7:30pm

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Leonhardt, author of The Morning in The New York Times, for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving American economy. Leonhardt will delve into critical issues like the federal deficit and healthcare reform, examining the shift from democratic capitalism to an economy that increasingly favors the wealthy. Please note that this dinner requires a COVID-19 rapid test for entry.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Watch David Leonhardt discuss the state of the US economy, investments that could fuel economic growth, and how the political parties have contributed to a decline in American prosperity in The Prof G Podcast with Scott Galloway.

Hosted by Cynthia Farrar & Paul Kennedy, New Haven​

Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm

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25. How do You Feel? - Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm

Discover the science of emotional intelligence with Marc Brackett, a leading expert in the field and Professor at the Yale Child Study Center. Brackett will share his groundbreaking research and practical tools for understanding and managing emotions, empowering you to thrive in all aspects of your life. Prepare for an engaging and transformative evening that will change the way you think about your feelings!

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Marc Brackett's website to learn more about this work on emotional intelligence, his book Permission to Feel, and explore his work at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. 

Hosted by Alva Greenberg, New Haven

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26. Disrupted! - Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm

Gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of American democracy with Khalilah Brown-Dean, a leading voice in civic engagement and social justice. Brown-Dean, host of WNPR's Disrupted podcast, will share her expertise on critical issues like mass incarceration, voting rights, and the impact of political conflict on our society. This intimate gathering promises to be both informative and inspiring.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Check out Khalilah Brown-Dean's website and read about her insightful work on crucial topics like criminal punishment, mass incarceration, and voting rights.

Hosted by Miriam Gohara & Marcus McFerren, Woodbridge

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27. Bon Appetit! - Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm

Have you always wanted to ask a renowned chef your most pressing cooking questions? Now's your chance! Join Jacques Pépin, a beloved figure in the culinary world, for an intimate evening of conversation and Q&A. Chef Pépin will share his expertise, stories, and signature charm, making this a truly special event for anyone who loves food.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Read about Jacques Pépin's incredible culinary journey, from his apprenticeship in France to becoming a beloved television personality and author. 

Hosted by Roxanne & Kevin Coady, New Haven

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28. Fundamental Rights Revisted - Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm

The Supreme Court is making headlines! Join Emily Bazelon, renowned legal commentator and staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, for a timely discussion on the Court's recent decisions and their impact on American society. Bazelon, a Senior Research Scholar at Yale Law School, will delve into controversial rulings on presidential power and reproductive rights, offering insightful analysis and sparking engaging conversation.

  • Get to Know our Guest of Honor: Listen to Emily Bazelon's podcast, Political Gabfest, and gain insights into her thinking and her unique approach to legal analysis. 

Hosted by Katherine & Matt Glendinning at Swensen House, New Haven

Books for Purchase

Guest of Honor Books for Purchase

​This year, several LEAP Guests of Honor have books available for purchase. These books will be discussed during the specific dinner conversations. Please bring your book to your dinner for the author to sign.  

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  1. Conversation 3 - Outside In by Norman Silber

  2. Conversation 5 - Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner

  3. Conversation 7 - White Poverty: How Exposing Myths About Race and Class Can Reconstruct American Democracy by Reverend William J. Barber II

  4. Conversation 10 - Liberty, Equality, Fashion: the Women Who Styled the French Revolution by Anne Higonnet

  5. Conversation 11 - Landing the Paris Climate Agreement by Todd Stern

  6. Conversation 13 - Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future by Jason Stanley

  7. Conversation 15 - Untimely Moderns: How 20th Century Architecture Reimagined the Past by Eeva-Liisa
    Pelkonen

Purchase Books at These Local Bookstores

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RJ Julia Booksellers
768 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443
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Atticus Bookstore Cafe
1082 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06510
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Possible Futures
318 Edgewood Ave, New Haven, CT 06511
Ticket Reservation Instructions

Ticket Reservation Instructions

  1. Choose your type of ticket.​​​
    • Dinner-Included Ticket ($150) - available for dinner conversations and the Reception 
    • Reception Only Ticket ($25) - admission to the Reception at the Dixwell Community (Q) House with food, drinks, and live music
    • First-Time Attendee/Student Ticket ($75) - available for dinner conversations and the Reception
  2. Enter the number of guests you are registering for. 
    • You can reserve up to 4 tickets to the same conversation with each registration form, but you can fill out the form as many times as you want for as many conversations as you want.
  3. Continue to the next section to fill out each guest's name and contact information. You will also have the option to make a donation to LEAP. 
  4. Continue to the payment screen.
  5. Guests will receive a confirmation email and a payment confirmation email.
Thank you for your wonderful support of LEAP - we can't wait to see you there! 
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Ticket Form FAQ
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How do I reserve tickets for two different conversations?
To reserve tickets for two different conversations you will have to fill out a new reservation form for each conversation. If you are reserving multiple tickets to the same conversation, you will not need to do this - just fill out one form and select the number of tickets you need (up to 4 guests). Be sure to fill out the full contact information for each guest.
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Can I buy tickets for a friend?
You can buy up to 4 tickets in one order. You will need the following information for all guests in your party: their mailing address, email address, phone number, and any dietary restrictions for dinner tickets.
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How will I know if my spot in a dinner party/conversation is confirmed?

Once you submit the form and make the payment, you will receive two confirmation emails to the email address(es) you entered on the form: one confirming your conversation selection and one confirming payment. If there is an issue with your reservation, you will be contacted by a LEAP team member. Tickets to conversations are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so we suggest you reserve your spots as soon as you can!

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What should I do if I reserve a ticket and I can no longer attend the event?

Please contact us at rsvp@leapforkids.org or call Alison Bonds at 203-767-7413 if you can no longer attend, at your earliest convenience. This is especially important for attendees of dinners as hosts plan to provide meals for each guest. Unfortunately, LEAP is unable to refund purchased LEAP Year Event tickets - all proceeds support LEAP programs for youth. â€‹

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How can I receive assistance purchasing my tickets?

If you require assistance purchasing tickets, please call Alison Bonds at 203-767-7413, and she will complete your reservation with you over the phone. General LEAP Year Event inquiries can be directed to rsvp@leapforkids.org or abonds@leapforkids.org​​
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