On October 10, 2024, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) hosted its 17th Annual Gala at Gillette Stadium’s G-P Atrium, a night of celebration, philanthropy, and giving back. With its theme of “Be The Light,” the Gala was a call to action for guests to give generously to help New England cancer patients with everyday household expenses.
Guests walked the red carpet sponsored by GlideFast and enjoyed a cocktail hour with music from Louie Bello and beverages courtesy of Love, Tito’s, Josh Cellars, and Athletic Brewing. A multitude of chance drawing items were on display, and the Super Silent Auction (back by popular demand!) was hosted by Joe Andruzzi and Bob Socci, the Voice of the New England Patriots!
Emcee for the evening was WCVB’s EyeOpener Co-anchor Doug Meehan, who opened the night with a moving program of his own, including Gala guests who expressed why they are ‘proud to be the light’ for JAF.
President and CEO Jen Andruzzi gave an update on the Foundation’s impact and future goals, announcing the expansion of the UniCORN online resource portal and the establishment of a Legislative Council. For 2023, JAF reported $1.4 million in assistance for cancer patients and families!
The evening also paid tribute to the late Mike Lombardo, a beloved board member and CEO/co-founder of GlideFast, who passed away from cancer in July 2024 at the age of 37. The appeal video in his honor highlighted his compassion, charitable giving, and dedication to helping others. Patient recipients Molly, Kota, Laurie, Leisa, and Julio shared their cancer journeys and how JAF supported them.
Harnessing the power and inspiration of our patients, acclaimed auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins took to the stage, featuring exciting items like a magnum of Veuve Cliquot champagne with bottle service to the winning bidder’s table, a Boston Bruins experience complete with dinner at the famous Tresca Restaurant, and a trip to Turks and Caicos. With Jacqueline’s British wit and charm (and the generosity of our donors), the appeal raised nearly $150,000!
The night closed with a heartfelt salute to the 2024 Game Changer honorees: CVS Health, New England Cancer Specialists, David and Karen Howe/The Derenzo Charitable Foundation, George Regan/Regan Communications Group, and Ken and Nicole Rosa. The celebration ended on a high note with a performance by hip-hop violinist Rhett Price. The celebration continued with a VIP After-Party hosted by Davio’s and featuring Hall of Famer Ty Law’s Corvis Vodka.
The Joe Andruzzi Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to its Platinum Sponsors—Amplix, Cross Insurance, GlideFast, Granite Telecommunications, and The New England Patriots Foundation—for their unwavering support in making the evening a success.
Our event wouldn’t be possible without our event partners’ extraordinary time and talents – first and foremost, the teams at The Castle Group and 5Tool Productions! We sincerely thank Peak Events and Only Prettier Design for making our theme come to life. Our promotional team at Regan Communications Group. In-kind partners whose contributions make our guest experience phenomenal: Love, Tito’s, Josh Cellars, Athletic Brewing, Luke Renchen Entertainment, and Montilio’s Baking Company. Our signature Gala story was told through the amazing event photography of Matt Teuten Photography, and our red carpet arrivals were captured by the outstanding Rich Powers/The Henry Studio.
A very special thank you to our local hotel partners, Hampton Inn & Suites Foxborough and Hilton Garden Inn Foxborough Patriot Place, for making it possible for our patient recipients to attend and participate in the Gala by providing wonderful accommodations. All of them were made to feel so special!
Of course, our biggest night of the year is so successful because of ALL our generous sponsors and loyal VOLUNTEERS, led by Jamie Cathers, who worked tirelessly all day.
Finally, sincere gratitude to Gillette Stadium staff for their service, support, fabulous food, and hospitality, which made our debut in the G-P Atrium space a beautiful evening! It’s great to be ‘home.’
We hope everyone who attended had a wonderful evening and felt the impact of JAF’s mission on cancer patients in our communities. Thank YOU for your support and investment in the Foundation’s work. See you next year!
SAVE THE DATE: The Joe Andruzzi Foundation Gala will return to Gillette Stadium in October 2025!
