The Gaudreau family are launching a 5K run to celebrate the legacies of Johnny and Matthew, who died tragically last summer.
The event, which takes place May 31 at Washington Lake Park in Sewell, N.J., will raise funds for the creation of an adaptive playground at Archbishop Damiano School, in Westville, N.J. The school provides services to over 135 children with multiple disabilities, offering individualized and special education programs for students between three and 21 years old.
Join the Gaudreau family and friends to honor John and Matty in the Gaudreau 1st Annual 5K Run/Walk & Family Fun Day on Saturday, May 31st. All proceeds will be donated to Archbishop Damiano School to build an adaptive playground for students with disabilities.❤️ pic.twitter.com/kxYPLPhoIi
— Jane Gaudreau (@JaneGaudreau) March 22, 2025
While the physical event will take place in New Jersey, supporters anywhere can participate virtually by walking and running whereever they are.
According to event volunteer Gillian Kocher, a lot of Calgarians have signed up to participate.
“To know the Gaudreau family is to know that family comes before all else,” said Michele McCloskey, executive director and principal of the Archbishop Damiano School. “The family’s long-standing dedication and history at Archbishop Damiano School have been a source of inspiration for us all. Their kindness and love continue to touch our hearts as they strive to live our mission and impact our students’ lives despite their loss.”
“The beauty of this event is that the opportunities to support are truly endless. Calgarians can sign up to walk or run individually, form teams with their friends and family, or, if they aren’t runners, support through merchandise and the memorabilia auction,” Kocher said, in an email to CTV News.
In New Jersey, the event will feature a competitive 5K run for serious runners as well as a fun run/walk for casual participants.
There will also be children’s activities, including a one-mile run and shorter kid’s dash, face-painting and other fun events.
“The lives of John and Matthew have left an indelible mark not just on our local community, but on countless individuals across the country and around the world,” said committee member Michael Green. “What makes this event truly special is that it’s not confined to the Greater Philadelphia area. We envision satellite events in cities like Columbus, Calgary, and Boston—and in every community touched by the inspiring legacy of these two remarkable young men.”
There will also be a memorabilia auction, including signed jerseys from athletes such as Jalen Hurts, Peyton Manning, Aaron Judge, Matthew Tkachuk and Sidney Crosby. There will also be a 2023 NHL All-Star Jersey signed by Johnny Gaudreau.
For more about the charity auction, go here.
For more about the race, go here.
