(Up)Beat (Up)Date

This month at JAF, we’re inspired by the idea of planting seeds of hope—thanks to our incredible community of donors and partners, this idea has taken root in powerful ways.

As we celebrate our 17th anniversary (thank you to everyone who attended the Hometown Hop Over last week!), we’ve witnessed many of you step forward with generosity and compassion. We’re marking this milestone not with fanfare, but with meaningful impact. To honor this moment, we’re inviting supporters to make a symbolic gift of $17. If everyone reading this message contributed that amount, we could raise over $300,000—imagine the garden of hope we could grow together!

However, the need is urgent. In the past month alone, we have received an unprecedented number of applications for assistance. Compared to last year, we have seen an increase of 198 applications so far this year. This means that the number of cancer patients across New England who face impossible choices between paying for treatment and covering basic living expenses has risen by 20% in 2025.

We continue to hear from our trusted network of over 100 healthcare centers and hospitals that JAF is a go-to resource for patient assistance, especially now, as support programs are being reduced or eliminated. Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither can we.

If there was ever a time to make a donation—or increase your giving—it’s now. Your contribution is more than just dollars; it’s hope, relief, and dignity for someone fighting for their life.

Join us in planting seeds of hope that will grow far beyond this moment. Together, let’s ensure that no patient faces cancer alone.

With gratitude,

Jen Andruzzi

President and CEO

How JAF Eases the Emotional Burden of Cancer

Cancer impacts more than just the body—it takes a toll on mental health, especially when financial stress piles on. This May, we’re highlighting how JAF helps patients and their families find relief, stability, and hope during their most challenging moments.

HOW JAF EASES EMOTIONAL STRESS

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million people diagnosed a year. 1 in 5 people will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Melanoma- the most deadly form of skin cancer- is preventable. Early detection is the most important factor in treatment efficiency when it comes to skin cancer. A good resource is the The Big See by The Skin Cancer Foundation.

What can you do?

Self skin evaluations
Schedule a yearly exam with a dermatologist
Always wear sunscreen
Spread the word!

JAF Golf Auction is FORE Everyone!

Even if you aren’t playing in 17th Annual Joe Andruzzi & Friends Golf Tournament presented by Frankie’s International Bistro/Apotho Therapeutics on June 9, you can still get in on the fun! Our Golf Auction goes live for early bidding tomorrow, May 30 and will be open to the public! We have some incredible packages this year, including:

An Ireland Golf Trip for 2
Coveted seats to Dua Lipa at TD Garden
An unforgettable MLB All-Star Game Experience

Auction opens Friday!

VIEW AUCTION HERE

Making Our Mark in the Granite State

JAF joins NH Gives for the first time — and we’re coming to town!

On June 10 and 11, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) will participate for the very first time in NH Gives (New Hampshire’s Day of Giving)! We are hoping to raise $5,000 and we’re calling on our supporters in the Granite State to help.

Do you live in New Hampshire? Here’s how you can be part of our team:

Make a gift to support JAF’s mission of lifting the financial burden for cancer patients.
Double your impact with matching gifts (contact your employer for details).
Like and share our social media posts with your network of family, friends, and coworkers — help us spread the word! (our social handles are at the bottom of this newsletter!)

We’re also looking for volunteers to join us as peer-to-peer fundraisers. It’s simple to get started, and we’ll provide all the tools and training you need. Your network could be the key to helping JAF reach (or exceed!) our goal.

Bonus: The first 3 volunteers who raise $250 or more will receive a JAF tote bag filled with swag as a thank-you!

For this special occasion, JAF Programs team members will also be visiting New Hampshire and hosting an (Up)Beat Event with our partners at Ryan’s Amusements.

To learn more about how to become a peer-to-peer fundraiser, or to sign-up, please contact Jeffrey LaValley, Annual Giving Manager by emailing jeff@joeandruzzifoundation.org, or calling (508) 261-0630, ext. 307.

Young Professionals Gather for Good

On Wednesday, May 14, the JAF Young Professionals Council (YPC) teed up an incredible evening at Puttshack Boston-Seaport for their “Putting for Patients” event!

The event raised over $2,700 thanks to all of our participants. A huge thank you to Puttshack Boston – Seaport for being such a fantastic host, and to everyone who contributed prizes — your support made the night truly special.

To find out how you can get involved in JAF YPC reach out to Nicole Hartley at nicolehartley13@gmail.com.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YPC

JAF Celebrates 17th Birthday at the 2nd Annual Hometown Hop Over!

On Thursday, May 22, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) marked its 17th birthday at the 2nd Annual Hometown Hop Over, presented by North Easton Savings Bank, at Angle Tree Brewery in North Attleboro, MA.

This sold-out celebration raised nearly $10,000 for cancer patients. Guests enjoyed locally brewed beer courtesy of Angle Tree Brewery, delicious light bites from some of North Attleboro’s favorite local eateries, live music by local favorite Luv, Mason, and the first 30 ticket buyers received a commemorative pint glass courtesy of our beloved partners at Well Told Design. Thanks to everyone for a great evening!

READ FULL RECAP

Worth a Read: Reservations for Nine

Reservations for Nine by George Beauregard is a powerful memoir chronicling one family’s journey through love, loss, and unwavering faith after the shocking stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis of 29-year-old Patrick Beauregard. Written by Patrick’s father — a physician, cancer survivor, and devoted dad — the book offers both medical insight and deep emotional resonance. Through heartbreak and hope, the Beauregards’ story is a tribute to family, faith, and the enduring legacy of a life lived with purpose.

Making this book uniquely tied to JAF is that the author’s son, Brendan, is both a friend and former JAF staff member. All of us are familiar with this family’s journey and passion for keeping Patrick’s memory alive. The Foundation’s own Denise Mowles read the book and shared her reflections.

READ BLOG

Last Call for Falmouth Runners

Maybe you missed your chance at the ASICS Falmouth Road Race Lottery? Still thinking about taking on this iconic road race along the beautiful Falmouth shore line? Team JAF still has a few spots available!

Register to join Team JAF at the 2025 ASICS Falmouth Road Race, Sunday, August 17th. Team JAF is recruiting 40+ athletes of all abilities to participate! Secure your spot before it’s too late!

Charity Entry: $1,500 fundraising minimum
Own Entry (obtained a bib through Falmouth residency, the lottery, At-home edition) – $500 fundraising minimum

APPLY NOW

Welcome, Caroline!

We’re excited to welcome Caroline Guravage to the team as our summer intern! She will be supporting the Advancement team, focusing on marketing, communications, and social media while learning the ropes of nonprofit work along the way. We’re thrilled to have her energy, curiosity, and fresh perspective on board.