FOXBOROUGH, Mass.– 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.
Though the spirit of volunteerism is felt throughout New England year-round, the Kraft family, the New England Patriots Foundation and cornerstone partner Gillette celebrated the season long initiative in a special pregame ceremony during the Patriots regular season finale versus the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, Jan. 5 at Gillette Stadium.
Throughout the season, the foundation presented a weekly "Patriots Difference Maker of the Week" award, which aims to recognize deserving volunteers who go above and beyond to help build stronger New England communities. Chairman and CEO of the Kraft Group and the New England Patriots Robert Kraft was on the field prior to the game to congratulate all of this year's winners.
"Celebrating the dedication of volunteers across New England reminds us of the unique spirit and resilience that define this region," said Robert Kraft, Chairman and CEO of the New England Patriots. "Giving back to our communities is a core value for our family, and it's inspiring to see so many individuals here stepping up to make a difference. It's through these acts of service that we continue to strengthen the fabric of New England, and I'm proud to see so many leading by example, inspiring others to contribute to the greater good of our communities."
At Sunday's game, the Kraft family announced that each of the Patriots Difference Makers would be receiving a $10,000 grant to support the nonprofit organizations for which they volunteer. They also presented a $25,000 grant to Perkins School for the Blind on behalf of the 2024 Patriots Difference Maker of the Year, Jane Long.
At 83 years old, Jane is on the floor teaching and playing with children in the Perkins School for the Blind infant and toddler group every Tuesday. For 20 years, breaking only for the pandemic, she's helped hundreds of children with complex disabilities learn through play while unlocking their true potential.
One of the many children who experienced the transformative power of Jane's work was born prematurely with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and retinopathy at 24 weeks. The child began attending weekly groups at 13 months, instantly connecting with Jane. After two years of working with Jane, the child gained greater mobility in their left arm and learned to sing, count and speak. Jane's unwavering commitment, even getting on the floor and playing with children just days after hip surgery, sends the message that the adult they're paired with loves and supports them.
"Knowing that there are so many volunteers doing incredible things, I was astounded and honored when I was notified that I had been chosen for this award," said Jane. "Volunteering at Perkins is a privilege. Little children bring the world to us, and being able to help infants and toddlers who experience the world in unique ways teaches me to remember that I'm not the teacher, I'm the listener. Committing to this cause brings me so much fulfillment and joy, and I am so happy."
Over the years, Jane has also volunteered for the Braille Talking Book Library and supported students during adaptive physical education classes, track meets and other events. Because of Jane, families witness the transformative power of play, trust Perkins, and begin to see what is possible for their precious children who are working to find their place in the world.
The 2024 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week range in age from 17 to 88 and support communities across New England. Charitable causes include disability support, healthcare, education, youth mentoring and more. These volunteers have collectively dedicated more than 250 years to giving back to their communities.
"We are incredibly proud to join the Kraft family and the New England Patriots Foundation in celebrating this year's outstanding Patriots Difference Makers," said Kara Buckley, Vice President of Communications and Community Affairs at P&G Gillette. "For over a century, Gillette has called this community home, and it is truly inspiring to see the profound impact these 17 individuals have made through their dedication and service. Their unwavering commitment to helping others not only strengthens our community but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all."
For more information about the Celebrate Volunteerism initiative and the 2024 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week, visit www.patriots.com/community/pdm.
