(Up)Beat (Up)Date
Nearly 17 years ago, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation was established with a mission to support cancer patients and their families experiencing financial hardship. While the world has changed in many ways since then, one thing remains constant: the overwhelming need for our assistance. Financial toxicity continues to be a significant factor in cancer outcomes, and every day, we hear from patients expressing their deep gratitude for the relief that JAF provides.
Beyond the financial support, we have learned that our impact reaches even further. Patients tell us how JAF lifts their spirits, eases their burdens, and fills their hearts with hope. When we first set out to help patients stay in their homes and keep the lights on, we never anticipated that we would also be igniting something equally powerful—hope.
We remain committed to serving the cancer community across New England. Our Director of Programs recently shared her thoughts on why JAF’s mission is just as relevant today—if not more so—than when we first began. I encourage you to read her blog below to learn more.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Together, we continue to make a difference.
Jen Andruzzi
President and CEO
The Cost of Cancer: Why Our Mission Matters More Than Ever
A cancer diagnosis is tough at any age, but with more young adults facing it—and the rising cost of living—financial strain is hitting harder than ever. JAF remains steadfast, ensuring patients and families aren’t alone in the fight against financial toxicity. JAF’s Director of Programs Shannon Gallanty shares how JAF’s mission remains relevant and a beacon of hope to so many.
At JAF, we know that awareness and early detection can save lives. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., but the good news is that it’s highly preventable and treatable when caught early. That’s why regular screenings are so important!
Current guidelines recommend that adults at average risk start getting screened at age 45. There are several screening options, including:
- Annual at-home stool tests – A simple way to check for hidden blood in your stool, which could indicate cancer.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy (every 5 years) – A quick procedure to examine the lower part of the colon.
- Colonoscopy (every 10 years) – A more comprehensive exam that can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
JAF is here to help. We support colorectal cancer patients across New England, and through our Universal Community Oncology Resource Network (Unicorn), we connect individuals with critical screening and preventive care resources.
Each state in our region also offers valuable programs to increase awareness and access to screenings. Check out your state’s program to get started:
- Massachusetts – The Colorectal Cancer Control Program (MCRCCP) partners with health centers to improve screening quality and reduce disparities.
- Rhode Island – Colorectal Cancer Prevention Program works with Federally Qualified Health Centers to provide resources and patient navigation support.
- Connecticut – The Department of Public Health’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program runs a statewide program that raises awareness and promotes screenings through healthcare partnerships.
- New Hampshire – The Colorectal Cancer Screening Program collaborates with health systems to make screenings easier and more accessible by reducing barriers for patients.
- Vermont – The Vermont Department of Health works with primary care clinics to educate residents and encourage regular screenings through the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program
- Maine – The state’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program focuses on increasing screening rates and helping people connect with available services.
If you or a loved one is due for screening, now is the perfect time to act. Talk to your doctor about the best screening option for you. Early detection can make all the difference!
Get Ready to ‘GIVE BIG’, Rhode Island!
Hey, Rhode Island (and southeastern Massachusetts)! On April 1, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation will be participating in 401Gives – Rhode Island’s very special day of giving. Last year, JAF awarded more than $100,000 in financial assistance to Ocean State residents, and we want to be able to continue providing that critical support to cancer patients when it is needed most. Your gift to 401Gives will help us do that!
We’re incredibly honored to have the support again this year of Rhode Island based Lawson Charitable Foundation! Though their generous Amplification Grant, JAF will be matching gifts dollar for dollar during a special ‘power hour.’ Stay tuned for more information!
So, on April 1 we’re asking our friends and neighbors in Lil’ Rhody to GIVE BIG for cancer patients in your communities.
We’re Looking for Runners & Golfers!
Spring means heading outdoors to enjoy some of your favorite activities. Did you know that you can join Team JAF this year for two super activities AND help cancer patients?
Golf Fights Cancer Golf Marathon – 100 Holes for a Cause!
June 5–6, 2025 | Juniper Hills Golf Course, Northborough, MA
Think you can play 100 holes of golf in one day? You’d be surprised! With Joe Andruzzi as Team Captain, you’ll enjoy a fun-filled day of golf, food, and fundraising—all to help cancer patients in need. Golfers of all abilities welcome! Hurry – spots are filling quickly!
No handicap required—just a love of the game!
Learn insider tips to pace yourself and complete the challenge
Fundraising minimum: $4,000 per golfer ($2,000 for junior participants)
53rd ASICS Falmouth Road Race – Run for Team JAF!
August 9–16, 2025 (At-Home Edition) & August 17, 2025 (In-Person Race)
Join us for this iconic 7-mile race along the water in Falmouth, MA, or participate in the At-Home Edition from anywhere! We’re recruiting 40+ athletes of all abilities to run in support of cancer patients.
Charity Entry: $1,500 fundraising minimum (includes your bib)
Own Bib Entry (Lottery Winners & Falmouth Residents – OR – At-Home Edition): $500 fundraising minimum. Note: At-Home participants must register themselves on the official Falmouth Road Race website.
Enjoy an unforgettable race-day experience with Team JAF!
Every step, every swing, every dollar raised brings hope to cancer patients in financial distress. Join us and make an impact!
JAF Sweepstakes Offers Second Chance to Play Black Rock This Year!
Enter to Win the Ultimate Golf Experience! From Friday, April 18 – Monday, May 19, enter our Sweepstakes to Play Black Rock as part of JAF’s annual event on June 9. The winner will experience this exclusive event that includes the following:
- Three (3) playing spots at the exclusive Black Rock Country Club
- Golf with New England Patriots legend & 3x Super Bowl Champion, Matthew Slater who completes your foursome!
- All-inclusive day with breakfast, lunch, cocktails, and dinner
Mark your calendar! Sweepstakes opens Friday, April 18!
There are still ways to participate in the 17th Annual Joe Andruzzi & Friends Golf Tournament. Click below to view limited sponsorships that are available.
Purchase a Tee Sign – Showcase your business or honor a loved one on the course.
Join Us for Dinner – Buy a dinner ticket to enjoy cocktails, dinner, and the main program while supporting our mission.
Visit our event platform for all the details!
It Was Hoppin’ at Haven Beer Company
The Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) was excited to kick off our 2025 Hop Over series with an event at Haven Beer Company in Hamden, CT on Saturday, March 22. This standing-room-only event raised nearly $8,000 for cancer patients and would not have been possible without our generous supporters:
Event Sponsors:
Hops Sponsor: Oak Family
Barley Sponsor: Ruane Family
Venue: Thanks to Haven Beer Company for welcoming JAF and all our supporters to your fantastic space and for providing delicious food, drinks and great music.
Of course, special thanks to our amazing friends at Well Told Design for donating custom pint glasses!
If you and some friends would like to assemble a host committee or sponsor JAF through a Hop Over at your favorite brewery in 2026, please contact our Director of Events, Gillian O’Brien, at gillian@joeandruzzifoundation.org for details.
COMING SOON:
The JAF staff is excited to share we will be hosting our 2nd Annual Hometown Hop Over this year on May 22 (JAF’s birthday!) at Angle Tree Brewing in North Attleboro, MA Save the date! Tickets will be on sale soon!
Upcoming JAF Events:
Team JAF: 129th Boston Marathon Presented by Bank of America
Monday, April 21
Hometown Hop Over at Angle Tree Brewery
Thursday, May 22
Team JAF: Golf Fights Cancer Golf Marathon
Thursday, June 5 and Friday, June 6
17th Annual Joe Andruzzi & Friends Golf Tournament Monday, June 9
Team JAF: 2025 ASICS Falmouth Road Race
Sunday, August 17