The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception and silent auction, where Jaylen Brown was joined by his mother and 7uice Foundation President, Mechalle Brown, along with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. Together, they addressed the crowd, thanking supporters and issuing a continued call to action to uplift and invest in communities too often overlooked. One of the evening’s most powerful moments came when Jesse Givens, an original participant from the 7uice Foundation’s inaugural Bridge Program in 2020 who was diagnosed with autism, took the stage to share his personal journey. Jesse spoke about how the program helped spark his passion for science – a path that has since earned him a full scholarship to Boston University and a role conducting research at MIT.
The comedy portion of the night, hosted by Emmy-nominated comedian and Boston native Sam Jay, delivered nonstop laughs. Local favorites Kelly MacFarland and Corey Rodrigues opened the show with high-energy sets that set the tone for the evening. Comedian & Entertainer Lil Duval brought his signature style, blending stand-up with musical performance, including his Billboard-charting hit “Smile,” for what he called a “breakout comedy concert.” Fan favorite Gary Owen followed with a gut-busting set, even playfully roasting Jaylen Brown’s famously calm and monotone demeanor, drawing roars from the audience. The night was closed out by the effortlessly cool Deon Cole, whose deadpan delivery had the crowd in stitches.
The event drew notable figures from sports, media, and community leadership, including former NBA star Jalen Rose, political commentator Angela Rye, and Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, all showing their support for the 7uice Foundation’s mission.
“Laughs for Legacy was more than a comedy show, it was a celebration of community, culture, and collective responsibility,” said Jaylen Brown. “We’re just getting started.”
Proceeds from the night will directly benefit 7uice Foundation initiatives that provide educational, cultural, and leadership development opportunities for youth in marginalized neighborhoods across the country.
Learn More Here: www.the7uicefoundation.org