A moment of unity is forming around heartbreak, as the Gaudreau family extends an emotional invitation to the public. The memory of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau continues to be honored in a plethora of ways, with the Blue Jackets, the league, and their family keeping the flame of their memory burning. The latest tribute has come in the form of a social event for charity that was shared by their mother, Jane Gaudreau.

Jane shared a message on social media inviting fans and community members to the inaugural Gaudreau 5K Run/Walk & Family Fun Day. The event, taking place on Saturday, May 31st, will honor the memory of the two late brothers. “Join the Gaudreau family and friends to honor John and Matty in the Gaudreau 1st Annual 5K Run/Walk & Family Fun Day,” Jane wrote on X. “All proceeds will be donated to Archbishop Damiano School to build an adaptive playground for students with disabilities.”

The event not only promises to celebrate the lives of two beloved sons but also aims to leave a lasting legacy. Archbishop Damiano School, the beneficiary of the fundraiser, serves children with developmental challenges. The adaptive playground the Gaudreau family hopes to build will serve as a joyful and inclusive space for those students—a symbol of love and remembrance.

Also important to note is that the school holds a special significance to the Gaudreaus. Johnny’s and Matthew’s uncle attended the school, and Jane and their older sister Kristen now work there. They were also frequent volunteers there, with Johnny even donating the $10,000 he earned after his 2023 All-Star Game hat trick to ADS.

The 5K will be held at Washington Lake Park in Sewell, New Jersey, and will include both competitive and casual race options. Family activities, kids’ dashes, face painting, and community engagement with local first responders are also scheduled throughout the day. For those unable to attend in person, virtual participation options will be available. An online auction will further raise funds, featuring signed memorabilia from sports icons including Peyton Manning, Sidney Crosby, and a 2023 NHL All-Star jersey signed by Johnny Gaudreau.

According to organizers, this event is only the first of many. “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 Michael Green, committee member of the inaugural event. “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.”  This is indeed just one of many ways the family is keeping the two brothers’ legacy alive.

Honoring the legacy of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau

In a deeply meaningful move, the wives of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau have come together to launch a new foundation in memory of their. The recently unveiled John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation was launched in the memory of the brothers. The foundation will aim to expand youth hockey initiatives, help hockey families who face tragedy, and help families affected by drunk driving. These causes were held close to the Gaudreaus’ hearts.

The organization reflects the values the Gaudreau brothers embodied both on and off the ice—kindness, leadership, and community connection. According to family friends, the idea has been in the works for months as a way to continue the legacy of two men who touched countless lives.

Indeed, chances to donate have already been made available, with Meredith Gaudreau most recently launching a custom sweatshirt. The sweatshirt, made in partnership with LineChangeCo and the Blue Jackets, was personally designed by Meredith to reflect the memory of Johnny and Matthew. It comes in the color of Columbus’ third jersey, and all proceeds from sales went to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.

In a joint statement released by the sisters-in-law, they wrote, “John and Matty made a tremendous and everlasting impact on everyone who knew them. In addition to their hockey talents, the boys were known for their kindness. The Foundation’s purpose is to continue giving back to what the boys are passionate about and to ultimately continue to make a positive impact on the world in their honor.”

The 5K will mark the first public effort under this new banner, setting the tone for what is hoped to be an annual celebration of life, purpose, and unity. In remembering Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, the family is inviting the world to be part of something lasting and full of heart.