Oh, what a night! The Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) brought sponsors, partners, and guests together at Gillette Stadium for a fresh take on its signature fundraising event — a late-night talk show–inspired gala that delivered big on mission and raised more than $610,000 to help New England cancer patients and their family members.
From the red carpet arrivals sponsored by GlideFast Consulting and the Lombardo Legacy Fund, to the cocktail hour and auctions, guests enjoyed first-class food, beverages, and an unforgettable evening celebrating generosity and community.
Premier sponsors, patients, and Game Changers were treated to a VIP Experience sponsored by Bob’s Discount Furniture which was a behind-the-scenes tour of Gillette Stadium that included a stop on the legendary field.
The program kicked off with WEEI Sports Radio Host Nick “Fitzy” Stevens, who warmed up the crowd with humor and heart before introducing our evening’s host, WCVB Channel 5 Morning EyeOpener anchor Doug Meehan.
From behind the “late night” desk, Doug welcomed Joe and Jen Andruzzi to the couch to reflect on the Foundation’s impact in 2024 — a remarkable year in which JAF granted more than $1.2 million in financial assistance to over 8,100 patients and their family members across New England.
Next, thanks to our Mission Sponsor Cross Insurance, guests met Cathy Rowe, a 56-year-old breast cancer patient and JAF grant recipient who courageously shared her story and the challenges she and her husband Dana faced during her diagnosis. In a heartfelt surprise, Bob’s Discount Furniture gifted Cathy and Dana the entire “late night” set — including the sofa, side chair, and end table — as a reminder of comfort and care during their next chapter.
Returning once again to lead the fundraising, auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins brought her signature energy to the stage, inspiring a “paddles up” moment that included three thrilling live auction packages and a powerful mission appeal.
For the fifth consecutive year, JAF proudly honored it’s Game Changers — extraordinary individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions of time, talent, and resources to further the Foundation’s mission. This year’s honorees were:
- Susan Hurley
- Ronny Mosston
- Tony Medeiros
- Joe DiPietro/Revise Home Energy Solutions
- WCVB Channel 5 / Andrew Vrees
In true late-night fashion, Joe, Jen, Doug, Nick, Jacqueline, and the entire JAF Team closed out the show together on stage for a round of “good nights” as the credits rolled. The evening was not only fabulous and fun, but truly impactful— ensuring continued support for patients and families as JAF closes out another incredible year.
JAF extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make the night a success — our sponsors, guests, donors, and volunteers (see the full sponsor list to the right).
A special thank-you to our event and in-kind partners whose talents and products elevated the event experience: The Castle Group, 5Tool Productions, Stage Edge, PEAK Rentals, Well Told Design, GlenPharmer Distillery, 90+ Cellars, Athletic Brew, Montilio’s Bakery, The Henry Studio, Mel O Photography, Manny Escobar, Luke Renchen Entertainment, and the Silver Arrow Band.
Together, we proved that a little laughter — and a lot of heart — can make a big difference for families facing cancer.
