Building on the tremendous success of last year's inaugural event, which raised over $500,000 and help to fund the construction of The Gaudreau Brothers Wings of Hope playground at Archbishop Damiano School, the 2nd Annual Gaudreau Family 5K Run/Walk & Family Day will return on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Washington Lake Park, Sewell, NJ.
This year's event will benefit the newly established Gaudreau Family Foundation, created to honor the enduring legacies of John & Matty Gaudreau.
The Gaudreau Family Foundation honors the lives and legacies of John & Matty Gaudreau by supporting programs that empower children, promote youth athletics, and champion animals. Guided by their unwavering commitment to family and spirit of kindness, compassion, and joy, the Foundation carries forward their legacies, ensuring their positive impact continues to shine throughout the communities where they lived, played, and inspired others.
"John & Matty's lives were defined by their generosity, kindness, and love for their community and
family," said parents Jane and Guy Gaudreau. "Family was everything to them. Through this event and the Foundation, we have the opportunity to continue the good work they would have done-supporting the causes that mattered most to them and touching the lives of those who need it most."
A Day for the Whole Family
The inspiring morning will offer something for everyone. Competitive runners can participate in the
timed 5K race, while families can enjoy a non-competitive 2K run/walk at their own pace. For younger
children, the day includes a series of shorter kids dashes designed just for them.
Beyond the races, families can spend the day together enjoying face-painting, interactive games, and a variety of activities that celebrate the spirit of togetherness that John & Matty cherished. New this year, a cornhole tournament!
Whether families come to compete, walk together, or simply to enjoy a day outdoors in support of a
meaningful cause, there will be activities to create lasting memories for all ages.
A National Movement
While the main event takes place at Washington Lake Park, families and participants from across the
country are encouraged to join virtually - running or walking wherever they are on May 16th. Last year, over 1,000 runners and walkers from all 50 states and Canada participated virtually, including members of the Florida Panthers and their families, led by Matthew Tkachuk. The Panthers went on to win the Stanley Cup just weeks later.
"This event has grown into something far beyond what we could have imagined," said Deb Vasaturo,
Gaudreau Family 5K Committee Chair. "We encourage families and communities everywhere to create their own teams and gather in their neighborhoods on May 16th. Whether you're in Columbus, Calgary, Boston, or anywhere else, you can be part of this movement to continue to do good in honor of John & Matty."
A raffle of gift baskets, online merchandise sales, and more will help raise additional funds for the
Foundation's mission to support what John & Matty held most dear.
To learn more about the 2nd Annual Gaudreau Family 5K Run/Walk and Family Day, to sponsor, or to
register, visit: www.runsignup.com/GaudreauFamily5K.