The first Gaudreau Family 5K Walk/Run and Family Day, held in memory of John and Matthew Gaudreau, successfully raised over $500,000 for an accessible playground at Archbishop Damiano School, where the hockey players' mother, Jane Gaudreau, works. The event, which took place in May at Washington Lake Park in southern New Jersey, drew more than 1,100 participants in person and virtually from across the U.S., Canada, and around the world.

A Legacy of Giving

John and Matthew Gaudreau, both of whom had deep ties to the NHL, tragically passed away in August 2024. The brothers had been actively involved in supporting their community, particularly in championing the cause of accessible play spaces for children with special needs. The playground initiative was launched in October 2020 by Principal Michele McCloskey, and the funds raised through the 5K event have now met the financial goal for the project.

Community Build and Future Plans

The groundbreaking for the playground is scheduled for late August or early September, with a community build tentatively set to begin on October 4. The new playground will feature wheelchair accessibility, ramps, and transfer platforms, ensuring that all students can enjoy the space. The Gaudreau family and the school staff have been deeply involved in the planning and fundraising efforts, which included an online memorabilia auction that raised additional funds.

A Family’s Commitment

The Gaudreau family has a long history with Archbishop Damiano School, which was founded in 1968 for children with Down syndrome and now serves 135 students with special needs. Jane Gaudreau has been a finance associate at the school since 1984, and her daughter Kristen has taught there for nearly 20 years. The family’s commitment to the school and its students is a testament to their dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Gaudreau Family 5K has inspired plans for future events, with the next walk tentatively scheduled for May 16, 2026. The outpouring of support from the community and the hockey world has been overwhelming, and the Gaudreau family is committed to continuing their efforts to honor John and Matthew’s legacy through initiatives that benefit children with special needs.

Final Thoughts

The Gaudreau Family 5K is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a celebration of community, love, and the enduring impact of two brothers who dedicated their lives to making a difference. The new playground at Archbishop Damiano School will stand as a lasting tribute to their memory and a place where children can play, learn, and grow.