Connecticut's Premier LGBTQIA+ Gala!
One Big Event
We’re rolling out the blue carpet for our 24th Annual One Big Event — Connecticut’s premier black-tie gala celebrating LGBTQIA+ health, wellness, and community. This unforgettable evening brings together allies, advocates, and changemakers like you for a night of celebration, connection, and impact.
Since 1983, The Health Collective has provided compassionate, affirming healthcare to LGBTQIA+ people and other communities across Connecticut. From HIV prevention, STI testing and treatment, and vaccinations to comprehensive dental and restorative care, our work helps people access the services they need in a place where they are seen, respected, and treated with dignity.
Your support makes this possible. When you sponsor or attend One Big Event, you’re not just joining a celebration — you’re becoming One Big Reason we can continue providing lifesaving and transformative care to our communities.
This year’s One Big Event is
Saturday,
November 14, 2026,
at the Hartford
Marriott
Downtown!
Click below to purchase tickets and learn more about everything this year’s event has in store!
What to
Expect
This year's gala will be an unforgettable evening of dinner, dancing, and excitement! Guests will enjoy:
Cocktail Reception
Kick off the evening with a lively cocktail hour, featuring an open bar available from 6 - 9pm, and the chance to mingle with community leaders and allies.
Three-course Dinner
From the first bite to the last, your taste buds will be treated to a three-course meal that perfectly complements the evening.
Food selections coming soon!
Live Auction
Bid on exclusive items and experiences, with all proceeds directly supporting our programs and services.
Entertainment
Get ready to dance the night away with music and friends!
Why Your Support Matters
The funds raised from our One Big Event gala are critical to our ability to provide compassionate, culturally competent care to the LGBTQIA+ and broader communities of Connecticut. Your support enables us to sustain our comprehensive medical, dental and support services, expand our reach and impact, and ensure that all individuals have access to the care and respect they deserve.
Sponsorship
Join us in sponsoring One Big Event, the Health Collective's signature gala that brings our community together in celebration, solidarity, and support.
Your sponsorship will directly impact our ability to deliver essential care, expand programs, and address disparities in health outcomes. By sponsoring this event, you not only support life-changing services but also affirm your commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Together, we can create healthier, more vibrant communities.
Download
our sponsorship letter to find out ways to support this event!
Donate an Auction Item!
A staple of One Big Event is our silent auction, which brings together incredible items and experiences, all to benefit the Health Collective’s mission. By donating auction items, you play a vital role in helping us provide essential care, expand programs, and address health disparities in our community.
Whether it’s a unique location destination, a must-have item, or a special service, your donation to the silent auction helps us raise crucial funds to continue building a healthier, more inclusive future.
Download our Auction Donor Form to get started or contact
braydenr@healthcollective.org
with any questions!
A Message from our OBE Chair
Being the chair of OBE for over 20 years has shown me the power and dedication of our community, our allies, and families. The obvious intent of OBE, is to raise funds that support our work and mission.
One Big Event is also a great way to engage with the community, see old friends, and make new ones. When you support One Big Event you become a stakeholder in our mission, work, and in another human's life. This is the power in supporting One Big Event. I look forward to seeing you all there.
-E John McGarvey
Below, you'll find memories from our previous events!
To see a full gallery of last year's photos, courtesy of Matthew Whitaker, visit his website The Missing Lens.
