East St. Louis, IL — The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation (JJKF) is proud to announce its 13th Annual Sequins, Suits & Sneakers Gala, taking place on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis. This year’s event marks a special milestone—the 25th Anniversary of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, known in the community as the “Miracle on 25th Street.”
Hosted by award-winning journalist and broadcaster Rene Knott, the Gala will bring together corporate leaders, community partners, philanthropists and supporters for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, entertainment and purpose. Guests are encouraged to showcase their personal style by pairing elegant attire with their favorite sneakers, a signature twist that reflects both the glamour and the athletic spirit of the evening.
Funds raised will advance the Foundation’s mission of helping youth and families “win in life.” Proceeds from the Gala will provide essential resources to sustain and grow our two core pillars: Education and Athletics. Through these pillars, the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation serves East St. Louis and the surrounding communities with programs that include educational enrichment, STEAM, learning, literacy, athletics, workforce development, transportation, meals, agricultural and wellness initiatives.
“For 25 years, the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center has been a safe haven and a place of opportunity for thousands of young people and families,” said Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Founder and Board Chair. “This Gala is not just a celebration of our past it’s an investment in the future. Together, we are building stronger communities and empowering youth to dream bigger, work harder, and succeed.”
Since its founding in 1988 (JJK Center opened in 2000), the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation has served youth and families, providing life-changing programs in a community challenged by poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to safe and positive resources. Looking ahead, the Foundation is planning for campus growth, including a 20,000-square-foot Innovation Center, new athletic fields, and a state-of-the-art indoor track and field house.
Sponsorship and ticket opportunities for the Gala are now available. For more information, visit www.jjkfoundation.org or contact Lecia Rives at lrives@jjkfoundation.org.
