Press Release
The New England Patriots Foundation announced $185,000 in grants to 17 local nonprofits in honor of each Patriots Difference Maker named during the 2025 Celebrate Volunteerism initiative.
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 Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Jan. 4 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.
“We are proud to honor volunteers across New England whose service reflects the values that strengthen our region,” said Mr. Kraft. “Their dedication supports our communities and upholds the principles that have long defined New England. The individuals we recognize today show how acts of service and kindness can spark meaningful change and encourage others to get involved.”
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 Community Nurse, Inc. on behalf of the 2025 Patriots Difference Maker of the Year, Madeline Cooke.
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- Madeline Cooke from Marion, Mass. was selected as the 2025 Patriots Difference Maker of the Year for her commitment to Community Nurse, Inc. As part of this recognition, the Kraft family, the New England Patriots Foundation and Gillette will be making a $25,000 donation to support the nonprofit. Submitted photo.
Madeline is an extraordinary Hospice Volunteer who gives her time and heart to patients in their homes and in nursing facilities. She began volunteering with the Hospice program during the pandemic and, despite the challenges, was the only volunteer who continued visiting patients. Her dedication provided families with much-needed respite and gave patients the priceless gift of companionship during a time when isolation was overwhelming.
“To be chosen as a Difference Maker promoting volunteerism has been amazing,” said Madeline. “This honor inspires me going forward to do more for hospice patients and their families. And by the way, this January 4th presentation was my first NFL game ever! Needless to say, I’m now a huge Patriots fan.”
She is truly a trailblazer, determined to walk alongside patients and their loved ones with dignity, grace, and compassion. Madeline’s unwavering dedication makes a profound difference, and her example inspires others to follow in her footsteps. She embodies the very spirit of a Difference Maker.
The 2025 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week range in age from 22 to 76 and support communities across New England. Charitable causes include disability support, healthcare, homelessness, youth mentoring and more. These volunteers have collectively dedicated more than 122 years to giving back to their communities.
“We are honored to partner with the Kraft family and the New England Patriots Foundation to celebrate this year’s exceptional Patriots Difference Makers,” said Kara Buckley, Vice President of Communications and Community Affairs at P&G Gillette. “For over a century, Gillette has been part of the New England community and focused on bringing out the best in others. These remarkable volunteers embody that same commitment — representing the best of the best in community service. Their selflessness, dedication, and compassion have changed countless lives for the better and they inspire us all to create a brighter future.”
For more information about the Celebrate Volunteerism initiative and the 2025 Patriots Difference Makers of the Week, visit www.patriots.com/community/pdm.
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