A Record-Breaking Year for Best Buddies
Everyone loves a good underdog story, and every now and then, you get one that really hits home. The 27th Annual Best Buddies Challenge in Hyannis Port did exactly that, raking in a whopping $4 million and drawing a crowd of nearly 1,000 participants. The event serves as both a fundraiser and a community builder, spotlighting its critical mission: bringing people together in support of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
A Weekend Filled With Purpose
Sure, they threw in some cycling, running, and a 5K walk for good measure, but the real highlight was the community spirit brimming from Boston to Hyannis Port. Everyone had their eyes set not only on the finish line but also on the cause. Sponsored by big hitters like Jersey Mike's Subs and TJX Companies, the event delivered more than just miles—it delivered purpose.
“For nearly three decades, this event has served as a powerful reminder of what can happen when people come together in support of a common mission,” said Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies Founder and CEO.
The Big Names Stepping Up
When you have New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in the mix and former Boston Bruins player Zdeno Chára on the cyclist list, you know something special is happening. The event also welcomed the likes of professional cyclist Cam Wurf and musical artist Jason Derulo. Talk about increasing visibility and lending some major star power to the cause!
Digging Deep for Lasting Impact
The kickoff started with a private dinner at the JFK Presidential Library, peppering the evening with groundbreaking announcements. Jersey Mike's Founder, Peter Cancro, set things ablaze with his $1 million donation to the newly minted Best Buddies Forever Fund, aiming for a $100 million goal to keep the wheels moving on these essential initiatives. This contribution matches another $200,000 rolled in by PLAN of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. It's more than just fanfare—it's setting a serious benchmark for sustainable support.
All Roads Lead to Hyannis Port
Cyclists of all stripes hustled from the start line at JFK Library to picturesque Hyannis Port. It wasn’t just for seasoned pros, either; the race offered various lengths, making it possible for everyone to partake. Wrapped up in this athletic hustle was a lively clambake featuring a private Jason Derulo concert that topped off the event with some solid tunes and great vibes.
Growing Support from Corporate Backers
Nothing bolsters a nonprofit quite like strong corporate sponsorship. Shaw's and Star Market came through with $300,000 from their Spring 2026 in-store campaign, backing Best Buddies' life-enriching programs. Even the inaugural Best Buddies Golf Classic teed up extra fun, hosted by Drake Maye and enriched by generous donors such as Optum and other top sponsors.
The Real MVPs: The Community
When you strip away the glitz and glam, you're left with the heart of the operation—the attendees and supporters who show up year after year, making all this magic possible. They dug deep this year, too—raising a sweet $45,000 through the traditional Drake Maye Football Toss, a nod to the efforts kick-started by Tom Brady. Every signed football thrown meant another attendee at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference, proving that generosity and community spirit are alive and well.
By the end of this whirlwind weekend, it wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about creating a more inclusive world for those with IDD. And if the seasoned vets keep showing up, that world is coming faster than you might think.
