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The basics:

• Devils Youth Foundation awards record $1.5M in NJ nonprofit grants
• Funding supports 38 nonprofits serving youth development, health, education
• Grants expected to impact 93,000+ children and families statewide
• 10 New Jersey high school students receive $5,000 scholarships

The Devils Youth Foundation is making its largest charitable investment to date. The organization awarded a record $1.5 million in grants and community support to 38 nonprofit organizations across New Jersey during the 2026–27 season.

The announcement marks another milestone for the charitable foundation of the New Jersey Devils and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment. Since its inception in 2021, the foundation has invested more than $5.5 million in over 150 nonprofit partners. The work has impacted more than 300,000 children and families throughout the state via initiatives focused on youth and community development, food security, health and wellness, education and the arts.

As NJBIZ has reported, the foundation raises money through a combination of signature fundraising events, corporate partnerships and sponsorships, individual donations, auctions and other charitable initiatives.

Among its marquee events are the Martin Brodeur “MB30” Charity Golf Invitational and the annual Sweep the Deck Gala. Both feature active participation from current and former Devils players, alumni and team executives. Earlier this year, the Sweep the Deck Gala raised a record $2 million for the foundation’s programs.

The 2026–27 grant class includes a mix of returning and new nonprofit partners.

According to the foundation, the grants are expected to help more than 93,000 young people statewide.

“At the Devils Youth Foundation, our mission is rooted in strengthening the communities we serve and expanding access to opportunity for our youth,” said Allison Blitzer, chair of the Devils Youth Foundation. “Reaching this milestone reflects not only our continued growth, but the power of partnership and shared commitment across New Jersey.

“By investing in programs that support physical and mental wellness, food security, education, and the arts, we are helping to build healthier, more connected communities where New Jersey’s youth can truly thrive.”

Scoring scholarships

In addition to the grant awards, the foundation announced the recipients of its third annual scholarship program, which is conducted in partnership with New Jersey Devils alumni.

Ten New Jersey high school students each received $5,000 scholarships for the 2026–27 academic year: Kyla D. of Carteret, Nolan G. of Florham Park, Shawn G. of Middletown, Patrick H. of Scotch Plains, Ryan M. of Cedar Grove, Ana M. of Newark, Sofia M. of Parlin, Hadyn M. of Summit, Kaitlyn R. of Bayonne and Sydney S. of Holmdel.

The scholarship program has been funded through proceeds from the MB30 Golf Invitational and is supported by a Devils alumni advisory committee that includes Brodeur, Ken Daneyko, Bruce Driver, Andy Greene, Bryce Salvador and Travis Zajac.

“It is incredibly inspiring to recognize this group of students who are already making a meaningful impact in their communities,” said Brodeur, a Devils legend, as well as Hockey Hall of Fame (2018) and New Jersey Hall of Fame inductee (2025), who now serves as executive vice president of hockey operations for the team. “Through our partnership with the Devils Youth Foundation, we are proud to invest in young leaders who are committed to service, growth, and creating positive change.

“These scholarships are not only a recognition of their achievements, but a reflection of our belief in their potential to shape stronger communities across New Jersey for years to come.”

More information on the Devils Youth Foundation is available here.