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VOLUNTEERISM

VOLUNTEERISM

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Patriots Celebrate Volunteerism in 2025

The Celebrate Volunteerism initiative aims to share examples of dedicated volunteers, build awareness of the need for volunteering, identify and educate others about volunteer opportunities and inspire New Englanders to follow the Kraft family's example of becoming lifelong volunteers.

Throughout the 2025 season, the Kraft family, the New England Patriots Foundation and Gillette celebrate volunteers that work tirelessly to support children and families in need throughout the New England region, while also encouraging Patriots fans to get involved in their communities.

Each week throughout the season, the Patriots select a "Patriots Difference Maker of the Week." You can learn more about the 2024 winners here.

Chairman and CEO of the Kraft Group and the New England Patriots Robert Kraft takes a group photo with the 2024 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week.
Chairman and CEO of the Kraft Group and the New England Patriots Robert Kraft takes a group photo with the 2024 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week.

Patriots Difference Makers of the Week

Bob-Fiondella

Bob Fiondella

Amy's Angels
Weatogue, Conn.

Bob Fiondella, Chairman and Founder of Amy's Angels, created the organization in 2014 after his cousin, Amy, passed away from breast cancer. Inspired by her struggle, he built a volunteer-driven nonprofit to help individuals facing serious illness focus on healing instead of financial stress.

Through his leadership and tireless fundraising efforts, alongside his wife Michele and many volunteers, Amy's Angels has provided $2.8 million in aid, and supported more than 1,100 families. Bob's compassion and dedication continue to drive the organization's growth and impact.

Bob not only leads the organization but also chairs the Grants and Development Committees and oversees monthly board meetings. Bob personally meets with families, volunteers, and a wide range of professionals, including doctors, dentists, contractors and social workers, to coordinate essential services.

He actively recruits volunteers and inspires others to join the mission, often securing donated services like wheelchair ramp construction or critical dental care before surgery. Bob dedicates countless hours each day to ensuring that those facing serious illness or hardship receive the help they need. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment make him a mentor, a role model and a deeply caring individual.

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Leslie Credle

Justice 4 Housing
Boston, Mass.

In 2019, Leslie Credle founded Justice 4 Housing, a grassroots organization committed to ending housing discrimination and homelessness for individuals impacted by incarceration, and individuals criminalized for being victims of domestic violence. J4H uses policy to create systemic change, advocacy to lift up the voices of J4H constituents to educate those who oppose us and don't understand us, and direct service to provide the critical resource of housing to create a pathway to stabilization, generational wealth and equity.

Leslie is a passionate advocate and volunteer dedicated to racial equity and housing justice, especially for individuals impacted by incarceration. A Northeastern University alumna and recipient of prestigious fellowships from Echoing Green (2022) and the Social Innovator Forum (2023), Leslie draws on her own experience as a survivor of incarceration to drive systemic change.

As the Founder and Executive Director of Justice 4 Housing, she leads efforts to dismantle discriminatory housing policies and promote long-term stability for justice-involved individuals. Her volunteer work spans mentorship, public speaking, training, and direct advocacy, often collaborating with grassroots organizations, universities, and policymakers.

Leslie is a powerful voice in national conversations on reentry and housing equity, frequently speaking at conferences, panels, and academic settings. Her tireless commitment and lived expertise make her a transformative force in the movement for social justice and housing reform.

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