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, 2025 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.
Vito LaMura, from Gloucester, Mass. was selected as a 2024 Patriots Difference Maker of the Week for his commitment to SeniorCare Inc. As part of this recognition, the Kraft family, the New England Patriots Foundation and Gillette will be making a $10,000 donation to support the nonprofit.
A volunteer of 25 years, Vito volunteers his time, working in multiple programs at SeniorCare and serving on the SeniorCare Board and Advisory Council. Vito delivers meals to homebound seniors, bringing them a nutritious meal, a smile and a little conversation. Sometimes, these visits are the only contact a senior will have during the day, so these visits also function as wellness checks. They eagerly look forward to his visits.
Vito drives elders to and from their medical appointments, escorting them, waiting while they are in their appointments, picking up prescriptions and bringing them home safely. He assists elders with organizing their mail, helping them pay their bills and educating them about scams and fraud. Family members who may not live close to their family have told Vito that just knowing their loved one is receiving regular meals and social interaction through Meals on Wheels provides them with peace of mind.
“On a personal level, I am thrilled to receive the 2024 Patriots Difference Maker of the Week Award,” said Vito. “An invitation to a Patriots game from the Kraft family at Gillette Stadium is a long-time fan’s wish come true. Most important, however, is my delight and deep appreciation of the Kraft family, focusing a regional spotlight on the power of volunteerism. Thank you so very much! I am only one of many, many, many volunteers who know that without service to others, our communities suffer and we are unfulfilled.“
SeniorCare could not support these invaluable programs without wonderful volunteers like Vito. He is an incredibly dedicated, caring human being, willing to help wherever and whenever. He has spent time volunteering for many organizations over the years. Vito continues to live in the service of others, which exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism.
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.
2024 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week:
| Organization | Patriots Difference Maker | Hometown |
| Dream Big! | Ana Medina Pilar | Malden, MA |
| Empower, Inc. | Jeff McGowan | Seymour, CT |
| Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts | Marilyn Price Spivack | Milford, MA |
| Less Leg More Heart | Christina Hurley | Merrimack, NH |
| Good Shepherd Community Care | Ya-Ching Huang | Brighton, MA |
| Lawtown Boxing Gym Inc. | Edwin Candelario Sr. | Lawrence, MA |
| SeniorCare Inc. | Vito LaMura | Gloucester, MA |
| Science Club for Girls | Jiani Johnson | Cambridge, MA |
| My Brother’s Keeper | Gail Dailey | East Bridgewater, MA |
| The Confetti Foundation | Ellie Grimm | Middletown, RI |
| Read to a Child | Lenny Young | Malden, MA |
| Agassiz Village | Theresa M. O’Bryant | Stoughton, MA |
| Perkins School for the Blind | Jane Long | Waltham, MA |
| Safe Sports Network | Scott Evans | Hooksett, NH |
| Urbanity Dance | Anna Krotinger | Cambridge, MA |
| Camp Ker-Anna | Brian Taylor | Pawtucket, RI |
| The Sun Will Rise Foundation, Inc. | Darlene Mersereau | Weymouth, MA |
