#USA #Boston #Jersey Mike's #Best Buddies #Drake Maye

The 27th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: A Weekend of Giving and Community

On May 29-30, 2026, nearly 1,000 participants gathered for the 27th Annual Best Buddies Challenge in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, proudly presented by Jersey Mike's Subs, Shaw's and Star Market Foundation, as well as The TJX Companies, Inc. This remarkable fundraising event brought together cyclists, runners, and supporters to raise an impressive sum of over $4 million, dedicated to advancing the mission of Best Buddies International—a nonprofit that focuses on enhancing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

A Weekend of Inspiration and Fundraising

The Challenge kicked off with a private dinner at the prestigious John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, where founder Peter Cancro announced the establishment of the Best Buddies Forever Fund. This initiative aims to grow its financial base to $100 million, allowing the organization to sustain its impactful programs long-term. During the same evening, Best Buddies received a generous donation of $200,000 from the Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN) of Massachusetts and Rhode Island to support its local initiatives.

As the sun rose on May 30, participants set off on a scenic 100-mile cycling route from Boston to the shores of Hyannis Port. The event featured various options to suit all skill levels and included 55 and 20-mile cycling routes, alongside a 5K run or walk. Among the noteworthy attendees were professional cyclist Cam Wurf, New England Patriots player Mack Hollins, and former Boston Bruins player Zdeno Chára, all uniting to advocate for a noble cause.

Celebrity Support and Community Impact

Drake Maye, the New England Patriots quarterback and honorary chair of this year's event, played a vital role in raising awareness and support for Best Buddies. Accompanied by his wife Ann Michael Maye, who also participated in activities with Best Buddies ambassadors, Maye emphasized the importance of inclusion and community through his presence. Other notable figures included musical artist Jason Derulo, who entertained participants at a clambake event on Craigville Beach, culminating the Challenge in a joyous atmosphere.

Anthony K. Shriver, the founder and CEO of Best Buddies International, stated, "The Best Buddies Challenge Hyannis Port represents the very best of our organization—bringing together supporters, sponsors, volunteers, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for a weekend rooted in purpose, community, and impact." He further noted that such events raise vital funds that create opportunities in friendships, jobs, and leadership for participants.

Throughout the weekend, the atmosphere buzzed with camaraderie and purpose, showcasing the collective commitment to making a tangible impact on individuals with IDD. Participants had the chance to sponsor rising leaders by contributing to the Drake Maye Football Toss, which raised an additional $45,000 enabling aspiring buddies to attend the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference in July.

A Powerful Reminder of Community Strength

The clambake featured New England-style cuisine, where Shaw's and Star Market representatives offered a generous $300,000 check raised from their Spring 2026 in-store campaign for Best Buddies initiatives statewide. This event and its efforts symbolized more than just fundraising; it illustrated the strength and resilience of a community committed to inclusivity.

As the sun set on this successful Challenge, both participants and organizers left equipped with renewed motivation, knowing their contributions are fostering important changes in society and the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Best Buddies International continues to strive for an inclusive world, impacting an amazing 1.5 million lives across 41 countries. For more information about how you can get involved in the journey of creating connections and continuing this mission, visit Best Buddies.