The New England Patriots are making serious power moves lately. Everyone is buzzing about that blockbuster trade landing star wide receiver A.J. Brown in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. Add in exercising cornerback Christian Gonzalez’s fifth-year option, and the roster is looking dangerous.
But new franchise quarterback Drake Maye is making major moves off the field, too.
Drake Maye’s charity work took center stage as he served as the Honorary Chair for the 27th Annual Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port. The event brought out nearly 1,000 participants and raised a staggering $4 million to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
What Is It?
The Best Buddies Challenge is an annual cycling, running, and walking fundraiser that stretches from Boston to Hyannis Port. Organized by Best Buddies International, the event raises critical funds to create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for the IDD community.
Quick Answer
Drake Maye’s charity work focuses heavily on leadership and inclusion. By serving as the Honorary Chair for the 2026 Best Buddies Challenge, Maye helped the organization raise over $4 million. He also hosted the inaugural Best Buddies Golf Classic at the Old Sandwich Golf Club to bring top sponsors together for the cause.
Key Takeaways
- Massive Funding: The weekend raised over $4 million, fueled by a personal $1 million donation from Jersey Mike’s founder Peter Cancro to launch the Best Buddies Forever Fund.
- Star-Studded Support: Maye was joined by Patriots teammate Mack Hollins, former Bruins legend Zdeno Chára, and his wife, Ann Michael Maye, who spent time baking with participants.
- Expanding the Mission: The funds directly scale up regional and national programs for inclusive living and job placement.
How Drake Maye is Leading the Best Buddies Mission
It takes a lot of confidence to lead a franchise, but Maye is showing he has the vision to lead in the community, too. While the front office handles roster adjustments—like placing tight end Julian Hill on injured reserve—Maye focused his energy on rallying top-tier sponsors.
The event kicked off with a private dinner at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum. Big moves happened fast here. Jersey Mike’s founder Peter Cancro announced the Best Buddies Forever Fund, aiming for a $100 million goal, while PLAN of Massachusetts and Rhode Island chipped in a $200,000 donation.
On day two, the real sweat began. Hundreds of cyclists tackled routes ranging from 20 to 100 miles. Maye pivoted to his own strengths, hosting the inaugural Best Buddies Golf Classic presented by Optum.
According to Best Buddies Founder Anthony Kennedy Shriver, this weekend represents the very best of the organization. He noted that every dollar raised helps individuals with IDD secure meaningful jobs and live fuller, more connected lives.
Ultimately, seeing a young quarterback lock in with a great cause proves that the Patriots found a leader who understands impact, both on the gridiron and in the community.
FAQ SECTION
What is the Best Buddies Challenge?
The Best Buddies Challenge is an annual fundraising event featuring cycling, running, and walking routes from Boston to Hyannis Port. It raises money for Best Buddies International to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
How much money did the 2026 Best Buddies Challenge raise?
The 2026 event raised more than $4 million. Additionally, a new $100 million endowment campaign called the Best Buddies Forever Fund was launched with an initial $1 million personal donation from Jersey Mike’s founder Peter Cancro.
What was Drake Maye’s role in the charity event?
Drake Maye served as the Honorary Chair for the 27th Annual Best Buddies Challenge. He also hosted the inaugural Best Buddies Golf Classic presented by Optum at the Old Sandwich Golf Club.
