Lighthouse Tea Dance returns Sept. 27 to raise funds for LGBTQ+ youth

Kids In Crisis is looking for Greenwich neighbors to hit the dance floor for a cause. The Cos Cob-based nonprofit's 4th Annual Lighthouse Tea Dance takes place Sunday, Sept. 27, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Foundation House, 124 Old Mill Road, with all proceeds supporting LGBTQ+ youth across Fairfield County.

Early-bird tickets are $100 but only through Saturday, Aug. 15, according to Patch. After that, the price jumps to $125 through the day of the event. Tickets and sponsorship packages are available at kicteadance2026.givesmart.com.

The afternoon promises music from DJ Lady Tita, gourmet bites and a festive summer dress code.

Co-chairs Bill Pierz and Chris Spiegelman are leading the effort alongside a 20-member community committee. Sponsors already on board include Andersen, Circle Care Center, Second Congregational Church of Greenwich, Alon Marom, Anthony Palazzo and Jeffrey Brandi.

The money goes to Lighthouse, a peer-to-peer support program where LGBTQ+ students and allies gather for relaxed group meetings built around art, games and discussion. Kids In Crisis adopted the program in 2018 from its earlier incarnation as Stamford Lighthouse, and organizers say the Tea Dance aims to expand it to more Fairfield County communities.

"For many young people, finding a place where they feel understood can make a lasting difference," Lighthouse program manager Tiffany Pippins said. "The Tea Dance brings our community together to celebrate LGBTQ+ youth and help Kids In Crisis bring Lighthouse to more communities throughout Fairfield County."

Kids In Crisis, founded in 1978 by the Junior League of Greenwich, provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling and community education. The organization reached 11,962 children and families through its services and events in fiscal year 2025, according to its website. It remains the only Connecticut agency that can house children from newborn to age 18 of any gender.

The Tea Dance debuted in 2023 and has returned to Foundation House each year since.

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