WestMASSters 2026 to Support Two Local Families Facing Medical Hardship

SPRINGFIELD — The spirit of neighbors helping neighbors will be on full display when WestMASSters 2026 returns to the Morgan Road Pavilion on Saturday, June 27, bringing community members together for a day of friendly competition, fundraising, and support for two local families facing significant medical challenges.

Presented by Valley Impact Project, WestMASSters has grown from a backyard gathering among friends into one of the region’s most unique charity events. More than 300 attendees and 55 teams are expected to participate in a series of backyard games and activities, with proceeds benefiting the Ramos and Auclair families.

This year’s beneficiaries include Cristiano Ramos, a third-grader recently diagnosed with B-Cell lymphoblastic leukemia, and Lincoln Auclair, a freshman diagnosed with ANCA vasculitis, a rare autoimmune disease that resulted in kidney failure and ongoing dialysis treatments. Funds raised will help both families manage medical expenses, daily living costs, and other challenges associated with long-term treatment and recovery.

“WestMASSters is about more than competition. It’s about showing local families that their community stands behind them during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” event founder Thai Bui said. “Every registration helps make a meaningful difference.”

Participants can register teams or attend to support the cause while enjoying games including cornhole, ladderball, horseshoes, bucket pong, and more. Click here to register or learn more.