For nearly two decades, MDSC and the Boston Bruins Foundation have joined forces to support people with Down syndrome and their families. This partnership has raised money and awareness, largely through two major annual events – the MDSC/Boston Bruins Alumni Hockey Benefit Game and the Bruins’ 50/50 Raffle Event. The foundation has also provided grant funding to directly support our Parents First Call program.
The foundation’s steadfast support has raised significant funds to benefit our programs and has helped the general public understand that people with Down syndrome should not be defined by their diagnosis.
Annual MDSC/Boston Bruins Alumni Hockey Benefit Game
Every November, two dozen players on the MDSC All Star team, many of whom have a loved one with Down syndrome, sharpen their skates to face-off against Bruins greats of yesteryear. Friends of the MDSC fill the stands to cheer their team to victory (we hope!) in this annual grudge match.
Not only are attendees treated to an action-packed game, they can also lace up themselves for a free skate, enter to win raffle prizes, and bid on silent auction items to win sports memorabilia, sports tickets, travel packages, and other great gifts for the holidays. All proceeds support the MDSC and its programs.
This wonderful event is family-friendly and includes opportunities for you to meet Bruins alumni and get their autographs.
Bruins Down Syndrome Awareness Game
Every year, the Boston Bruins celebrate “Down Syndrome Awareness Day,” dedicating one game each season to raising awareness about Down syndrome. Through the generosity of the Bruins organization, a portion of each ticket sold for this special game goes directly to support the MDSC’s programs and services. Friends of the MDSC have the option of purchasing tickets through us to watch the game together as a group.
The occasion is also marked by MDSC self-advocates and volunteers who greet all fans as they arrive at the TD Banknorth Garden and sell “50/50” raffle tickets. Half the proceeds of each raffle ticket sold goes to the MDSC. The other half goes to the winning ticket holder, whose name is announced in the final period. If you’re interested in volunteering to sell 50/50 raffle tickets, please email us at volunteer@mdsc.org.
