Honoring Johnny Gaudreau’s Legacy

$300,000+ Raised

Through remembrance, action, and generosity, the Blue Jackets family continues to carry forward Johnny’s spirit of kindness, leadership, and love for the game.

Following the tragic passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, the Columbus Blue Jackets and the CBJ Foundation united with the hockey community to honor their legacy through meaningful action. In partnership with the Gaudreau family, the team helped support the John & Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, which focuses on youth hockey initiatives, supporting hockey families that have faced tragedy and families impacted by drunk driving.

Throughout the 2024–25 season, more than $300,000 was raised to benefit the cause. Fans showed overwhelming support through 50/50 raffles, warm-up jersey auctions, and the sale of commemorative lapel pins. Through The Blue Line Team Store, Delaware North Company, also released exclusive Gaudreau apparel, with 100% of proceeds directed to the Foundation’s mission. Together, these efforts served not only to honor Johnny’s legacy on and off the ice, but also to channel the compassion of The 5th Line into lasting impact for others.

Corporate Caring

Our approach to community investment is all about collaboration and leveraging our team’s unique resources to make a positive difference! Corporate Partners who support the CBJ Foundation not only enhance their investment but also showcase their dedication to supporting the community. It’s a win-win!

The CannonBall

Presented by Bartha and Bread Financial

$500,000 Raised

At one of the Blue Jackets Foundation’s most exciting fundraisers of the year, guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of children in central Ohio! Attendees had the chance to mingle with Blue Jackets players, management and club personalities, all while learning about the team’s ongoing community involvement. The highlight of the night was showcasing four remarkable young hockey players. Each shared their story of strength and perseverance, reminding everyone what true resilience looks like both on and off the ice. What a night to remember!

Generously Supported By

Generous Contributions

Vorys

Donated $10,000 to Ohio Sled Hockey, helping provide specialized adaptive equipment and making it possible for the junior team to attend the USA Hockey Disabled Hockey Festival.

Greif

Donated $10,000 in support of the Blocked Shots platform for every shot blocked by a Blue Jackets player during the season.

Donated $22,000 in support of the “Between the Pipes” program for every save made by a Blue Jackets goaltender during the season.

Worthington Companies Foundation & Cleveland-Cliffs

Donated $40,400 in support of the Community Assist platform for every assist a Blue Jackets player made during the season.

Jet’s Pizza

Generously donated pizza to Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation grant partners and was the presenting partner of the Foundation’s Grant Reception.

DNC

Donated food and beverage to community programs.