This month marks an incredible milestone for the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) — 18 years of standing beside cancer patients and their families during some of life’s most difficult moments.

When Joe and I started JAF in 2008, we wanted to help ease the burden for families facing cancer. We understood firsthand how overwhelming a diagnosis can be, not only emotionally and physically, but financially as well. What began as a mission rooted in compassion has grown into a powerful community of supporters, partners, volunteers, and advocates who continue to make a meaningful difference every single day.

As we reflect on the past 18 years, we are filled with gratitude. Because of your generosity, JAF has provided critical financial assistance, emotional support, and hope to thousands of families throughout New England. Every grant awarded, every event attended, and every dollar raised represents lives impacted, and that is something truly worth celebrating.

This spirit of community was on full display at our Hometown Hop Over at Angle Tree Brewery on Thursday, May 21. It was a wonderful evening made possible by the generosity of local businesses, supporters, and friends who came together to celebrate our mission and support our continued work. We are so grateful to everyone who attended, donated, and supported the event.

While we are proud of how far we’ve come, our commitment to helping families navigate the challenges of cancer is stronger than ever.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for being part of the JAF family. None of this would be possible without you.

With gratitude,

Jen

Golf Auction is Live Tomorrow!

One week until our annual Joe Andruzzi & Friends Golf Tournament at Black Rock Country Club, and we are SOLD OUT – thank you!

The auction goes live tomorrow, May 29, for early bidding and will be open to the public! We have some incredible packages this year, including:

Four (4) turf seats for Zach Brown Band at Fenway Park
Three (3) suite tickets for the Savannah Bananas Banana Ball at Gillette Stadium
Two (2) game tickets on the 50-yard line for Patriots vs. Packers at Gillette Stadium

When Cancer is Present, NH Shows Up

NH Gives is happening on June 9–10, 2026, and the Joe Andruzzi Foundation invites the Granite State to show up for their neighbors facing cancer.

Our goal is to raise $2,500 to help New Hampshire families — and every gift will help us continue being there when patients need us most.

Here’s how you can help NH show up:

Make a donation
- Check with your employer about its matching gifts program to double your impact.
Share our campaign on your social media
Join JAF’s NH Gives Street Team by hosting a peer-to-peer fundraiser and rallying your own community. We’ll provide all the tools you need. To join in on the fun complete this complete this brief questionnaire.

As a thank-you, the first 3 peer-to-peer fundraisers who raise $250 or more will receive a unique JAF swag item.

When cancer is present, JAF shows up.
This June, we hope New Hampshire will too.

For questions, please contact Jeff LaValley, Senior Manager of Annual Giving, by emailing jeff@joeandruzzifoundation.org or calling (508) 261-0630 ext. 307.

Falmouth Road Race

If you didn’t get a bib for the ASICS Falmouth Road Race lottery, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered!

Apply to join Team JAF for the 2026 ASICS Falmouth Road Race taking place on Sunday, August 16. Team JAF is recruiting 50+ athletes of all abilities to take part in this iconic event.

Secure your spot before it’s too late!

Charity Entry (need one of JAF’s official race bibs)
$1,500 fundraising minimum

Own Entry (obtained a bib through Falmouth residency, the lottery, or the At-Home Edition)
$500 fundraising minimum

To learn more or apply, click the red button below!

CLICK HERE

Third Party Updates

The month of May was great for JAF’s Supporter Hosted Events! JAF joined the Boston Bruins for a 50/50 raffle during Game 6 on May 1. Thank you to the Boston Bruins Foundation – Project 800’s Presenting Sponsor — for inviting us to participate. With over 30 of our volunteers on-site, $7,000 was raised for JAF!

On May 7, Joe Petrone, a JAF community member, took part in Boston’s Haymakers for Hope. Through fundraising, training, and fighting for those in his family who have battled cancer, he raised over $25,000 AND retired an undefeated boxer.

Meet the JAF Board of Directors

Joe DeStefano – Board Chair

Joe joined the JAF Board through his longstanding support of the Foundation and his passion for helping families facing the financial burdens of cancer treatment. Joe has been a dedicated advocate for JAF’s mission and community outreach efforts.

Fun fact: Joe is a lifelong New England sports fan who enjoys golfing and spending time with family and friends.

Beth Huber – Treasurer

Beth joined the Board in 2023, bringing years of leadership experience and a strong commitment to volunteerism and community impact. She is passionate about helping JAF continue to grow and support more families in need.

Fun fact: Beth enjoys traveling and finding time to relax near the ocean whenever possible.

Ken Rosa – Secretary

Ken became involved with JAF through his dedication to giving back and supporting organizations that make a direct impact in local communities. His financial expertise and strategic insight are valuable assets to the Board.

Fun fact: Ken enjoys mentoring young professionals and cheering on Boston sports teams.

Chris Checksfield – Director

Chris joined the Board out of his passion for community service and admiration for JAF’s mission-driven work. He is committed to helping the Foundation expand its reach and impact across New England.

Fun fact: Chris enjoys spending time outdoors and is always up for a good road trip adventure.

Dan Gill – Director

Dan brings extensive leadership and communications experience to the Board. His connection to JAF grew over the years through his support of the Foundation’s fundraising and awareness initiatives.

Fun fact: Dan is an avid music fan and enjoys discovering new restaurants and local hidden gems.

Dr. Nadine Jackson – Director

Dr. Jackson joined the JAF Board to support families navigating the emotional and financial impact of cancer treatment. Her healthcare background brings an important perspective to the Foundation’s patient-centered mission.

Fun fact: Nadine enjoys wellness activities and is passionate about encouraging healthy lifestyles in her community.

Dan Landers – Director

Dan became involved with JAF through his commitment to community engagement and helping organizations create meaningful impact. He is proud to support the Foundation’s work serving families throughout New England.

Fun fact: Dan enjoys boating and spending summer weekends on the water.

Katie MacDonald – Director

Katie joined the Board because of her passion for helping others and her admiration for the compassion at the heart of JAF’s mission. She is excited to support programs that provide relief and hope to families in treatment.

Fun fact: Katie loves trying new recipes and hosting family gatherings.

Tom Turco – Director

Tom joined the JAF Board in 2023 and brings a strong history of volunteer leadership and community involvement. He is dedicated to helping expand awareness and support for families facing cancer-related financial hardship.

Fun fact: Tom enjoys golfing and spending time with his grandchildren.

Read full bios here

Help Us Build the Bridge

At the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, our Bridge Builders are a special community of monthly donors. Through steady, ongoing support, Bridge Builders help provide relief for everyday expenses and ease some of the financial stress that often comes with a cancer diagnosis.

Today, we’re excited to share that our Bridge Builder community has grown to 88 members strong — and with your help, we’re aiming to reach 100 members by year’s end.

That means we’re just 12 people away from achieving this meaningful milestone, won’t you join us?

Whether you give $10, $25, $50, or more each month, you become part of a compassionate community committed to making sure no family faces cancer alone.

Become a Bridge Builder Today