Overview

• The inaugural Gaudreau Family 5K held in May at Washington Lake Park attracted more than 1,100 in-person walkers and over 1,100 virtual participants worldwide.
• Proceeds exceeding $500,000, combined with memorial donations, have fully funded a universally accessible playground featuring ramps, transfer platforms and sensory-friendly equipment.
• Archbishop Damiano School in Westville, New Jersey, educates 125 students with Down syndrome and other special needs and will host the new playground.
• Originally launched by principal Michele McCloskey in October 2020, the playground project gained vital momentum following the Gaudreau family’s event in memory of John and Matthew.
• NHL veterans John and Matthew Gaudreau inspired the community-driven effort after their deaths in August 2024 when a suspected drunk driver struck them while cycling.