On June 14, Boys & Girls Clubs of America celebrated the real meaning of its PSA campaign Great Futures Start Here as talented singers from the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club performed with eight-time Grammy-winning artist Gladys Knight.

Known as the Empress of Soul, Knight entertained hundreds during BGCA's Great Futures Start Here Gala. Funds raised during the annual event will help to support the highest quality programs and services -- including education and technology --  creating a great future for every child who walks through a Clubhouse door.

Knight, who recently wowed millions of viewers with her soulful swirls on Dancing with the Stars, has been working with the national organization on a number of special projects. Last May, as part of National Train Day, she welcomed hundreds of Boys & Girls Club members in NYC, Philadelphia, DC, Chicago and LA onboard for their first daytrip on a train.

Last spring, Knight wrote and recorded a song exclusively for Boys & Girls Clubs worldwide called The Dream. The song was inspired by Knight’s belief in America’s youth and the importance of everyone joining her campaign to help fulfill children’s dreams. The Dream was recorded in NYC and Knight recruited talented members from Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club as her background singers – marking another first for these youth from the South Bronx. In addition to the opportunity of a lifetime to record with a music legend, Knight also dedicated the song to Boys & Girls Club members, donating proceeds from downloads of The Dream.

CNN Anchor Soledad O’Brien served as the mistress of ceremonies.

Photo Credit:  Roey Yohai