Gaudreau brothers 5K planned in South Jersey. How to get involved in this charitable cause

A 5K in honor of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has been planned to help fund a new adaptive playground for Archbishop Damiano School.

The Gaudreau Family 5K run/walk, presented by Fanatics, is being hosted in remembrance of the Gaudreau brothers, South Jersey natives who were killed while riding their bicycles by a motorist Aug. 29.

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Johnny Gaudreau was an NHL all-star and member of the U.S. Olympic hockey team, and Matthew Gaudreau was a former NAHL assistant who had recently accepted the head coaching job at Gloucester Catholic High School, his alma mater.

More: Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew killed while riding bikes in SJ. What we know

The 5K is to be held May 31 at the Washington Lake Park in Sewell starting at 8 a.m., with the event ending at noon.

The event is to include a competitive 5K run for those looking for a challenge, and a casual walk/run for those looking for a more laid-back experience.

There's also to be plenty of kid-friendly features. They include a kids dash, face-painting and games.

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Members of local police and fire departments are to attend to help children participate in some hands-on activities as well.

Archbishop Damiano School in Westville provides services to more than 135 students who have a variety of disabilities with both individualized and inclusive special education programs for students up to the age of 21.

Michele McCloskey, executive director and principal of the Archbishop Damiano School, said that "to know the Gaudreau family is to know that family comes before all else."

"The family’s long-standing dedication and history at Archbishop Damiano School have been a source of inspiration for us all. Their kindness and love continue to touch our hearts as they strive to live our mission and impact our students' lives despite their loss," McCloskey said.

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Michael Green, committee member of the inaugural event, said that "we envision satellite events in cities like Columbus, Calgary, and Boston — and in every community touched by the inspiring legacy of these two remarkable young men.”

Participants can join in virtually as well.

A raffle of gift baskets and online merchandise sales is to help raise additional funds boasting autographed sports memorabilia that you can find online at charityauctionstoday.com.

Nick Butler is an impact reporter for the Courier Post, the Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times covering community news in South Jersey. Have any tips or stories? Reach out to NButler@Gannett.com. Subscribe to stay in the loop.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: A 5K in memory of the Gaudreau brothers is to be held in Sewell