The New American Dream Foundation (TNADF) will host its 11th Annual American Dream Awards Gala on Friday, September 26, 2025, at The Amber Room Colonnade. Presented by Union Savings Bank, the gala celebrates the achievements of immigrants while raising funds for scholarships and essential programs that support immigrant families in the Greater Danbury area.

This year’s theme, “Around the World in One Evening – A Celebration of All of Us,” reflects the diversity that defines the American experience. Guests will enjoy globally inspired cuisine, cultural presentations, and an African drumming performance symbolizing unity and resilience. Attendees are encouraged to wear black-tie attire or traditional cultural clothing.

The gala will honor three leaders for their contributions to immigrant communities and award $3,000 scholarships to four exceptional local students.

2025 Honorees:

- Community Hero Award: United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut’s Cora’s Kids Initiative for its role in expanding affordable childcare and empowering immigrant entrepreneurs in early education.

- American Dream Champion: Doug Polistena, owner of The Amber Room Colonnade, recognized for decades of philanthropic leadership and community support.

- Lifetime Achievement Award: Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, the first Asian American elected statewide in Connecticut, celebrated for his commitment to justice and equity for vulnerable populations.

- Scholarship Recipients:

- Gardenia Carpio, 16, aspiring architect.

- Samuel Pereira, 16, future orthopedic or neurology doctor.

- Jonnathan Jaramillo, 19, UConn mechanical engineering major and Hispanic STEM advocate.

- Yasmin dos Santos, 22, future Board-Certified Behavior Analyst supporting children with developmental disabilities.

Ticket proceeds will support Mission Health Day—a day of free health screenings and other community services for the uninsured and income-challenged, hosted by Nuvance Health and TNADF. The funds will also benefit the Foundation’s scholarship program, New American Dream Community Resource Center, Immigrant Family Emergency Fund, and the Senior Hot Meal program.

Founded in 2016 by the Bacelar-Palmares family, TNADF is the nonprofit arm of Tribuna Newspaper, dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and inspiring immigrants. Over the past six years, TNADF has:

- Served more than 49,000 meals to local seniors.

- Invested $124,800 toward healthcare access.

- Awarded $77,000 in scholarships since 2015.

- Assisted over 795 immigrant families and individuals since 2023 through its New American Dream Center.

The Foundation provides free services, including citizenship eligibility screenings, application tutoring, translations, and legal clinics. Its Emergency Relief Fund supports families in crisis who do not qualify for government aid, in partnership with community partners.

“The gala isn’t just a celebration—it’s a lifeline for immigrants who rely on our programs for access to education, healthcare, and emergency support,” said TNADF Vice President Emanuela Palmares.

Tickets can be purchased at www.americandreamgala.com. To learn more about the Foundation’s mission and services, visit www.thenewamericandreamfoundation.org.