John W. Hughan Foundation to host first gala this spring
The John W. Hughan Foundation will bring the community together April 10 for its first annual fundraising gala, an evening centered on expanding opportunities for young people across the South Shore.
The event will take place at Granite Links in Quincy and is expected to draw more than 300 guests for dinner, entertainment and auctions.
Proceeds will support programs in music, community service and athletics, reflecting the interests that shaped John Hughan’s life. Hughan, a Norwell student, died in August 2024 at age 14.
In the year and a half since the foundation was established, its work has already begun to take root in the community. One early effort helped complete an outdoor classroom at Norwell Middle School, a project Hughan had planned as part of his work toward Eagle Scout. The space opened in fall 2025 and quickly became a place where students could gather and learn outside.
The foundation has also expanded access to music education. It partnered with the Southeastern Massachusetts School Bandmasters Association to increase scholarship opportunities for lessons and is supporting the Rose Conservatory in Brockton, which provides after-school music instruction, academic support and meals. Funding has helped purchase instruments and sustain daily operations.
Service remains a central focus. Through partnerships with End Hunger New England, youth volunteers have packed more than 65,000 meals during the foundation’s first three events, helping families facing food insecurity both locally and across the country.
The organization has also supported youth access to sailing through Pleasant Bay Community Boating, where Hughan spent time on the water, and is preparing to expand into additional partnerships. Upcoming efforts include building beds for children in need and increasing access to athletic training for those who may not otherwise be able to afford it.
“We have done great work so far and the gala is an important next step to raise more funds expanding our ability to support youth and impact more lives,”said Peter Hughan, John’s father and co-founder of the foundation.
The gala will feature dueling pianos along with silent and live auctions, with funds aimed at strengthening existing programs and reaching more young people.
“John is deeply missed every day, and the foundation allows us to honor his life and passions while helping provide opportunities for youth today,” said Allison Hughan, John’s mother and co-founder of the foundation.
Organizers say the foundation’s mission remains rooted in ensuring more young people have the chance to explore their interests, build skills and give back, just as Hughan did.
Tickets are available here.
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