In a community celebration at Gillette Stadium on June 3, 26 dedicated volunteers from across New England were recognized as recipients of the 2025 Myra Kraft Community MVP Award—one of whom is Andover’s own Marilyn Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald, a fixture at the Merrimack Valley YMCA for 55 years, was presented with a $10,000 community grant by the Patriots Foundation and the Kraft family.
The ceremony, sponsored by Gillette, distributed a total of $275,000 to nonprofits represented by this year’s honorees. While the main prize—$25,000—was awarded to Michael Downing of Brockton for his work with The BASE, the remaining 25 volunteer-led nonprofits, including the YMCA, each received $10,000.
Marilyn Fitzgerald’s recognition stems from over half a century of tireless volunteer service. “Marilyn Fitzgerald … has been showing up to lend a hand at the Merrimack Valley YMCA for 55 years,” noted NBC Boston nbcboston.com. Her efforts have supported a multitude of YMCA programs—from youth sports to adult education—making her a beloved figure in the Lawrence and Andover communities.
The MVP Awards, originally launched in 1998 and renamed in 2011 to honor Myra Kraft, celebrate volunteers who exemplify community dedication. This year’s cohort ranged in age from 21 to 94 and represented all six New England states.
A Legacy of Service
Since its inception, the Myra Kraft Community MVP Awards have recognized more than 525 volunteers, distributing over $4 million to support grassroots efforts across the region. The awards process attracted nearly 300 nominations from nonprofit organizations earlier this year.
“Mrs. Kraft believed deeply in the importance of giving back and creating lasting change in the lives of others,” Patriots Chairman Robert Kraft reflected during the ceremony.
About Marilyn Fitzgerald
Marilyn Fitzgerald’s half-century commitment to the YMCA encompasses leading youth sports, mentoring countless children, organizing community events, and offering unwavering support across generations. The $10,000 grant awarded to the YMCA in her honor will help fund vital programs in Lawrence and Andover.
Looking Ahead
The Myra Kraft MVP program—open each February to nonprofits throughout New England—continues to honor and empower grassroots volunteers into the future. For more information on the award and nomination process, visit the Patriots Foundation website patriots.com.