BOSTON — The Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation (BCSF) announced that it will be awarding $2 million through the Fast Break Fund, naming Horizons for Homeless Children and Square One as the inaugural recipients of grants exceeding $1.2 million cumulatively to support education-focused initiatives across their communities.
In addition to the two selected organizations receiving grants, $670,000 will be distributed across an additional nine nonprofits in support of their outreach programs.
The Fast Break Fund is a newly established funding initiative through BCSF as part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to help children and families in New England. Designed to create a “fast break to impact” for beneficiary organizations, the fund also pays homage to the
Celtics teams of the 1950s and 1960s — trailblazers of fast break basketball who helped define the franchise’s identity both on and off the court. The fund was introduced as part of the organization’s 75-year celebration of social impact, a legacy that began in 1950 with Chuck Cooper becoming the first Black player drafted by the NBA.
Founded in 1883, Square One provides a comprehensive range of education and family support services designed to meet the evolving needs of children and families. Its programming spans early education and care, youth workforce development, home-visiting initiatives, and broader family services, helping to build a strong foundation for long-term growth and well-being. This grant will support the expansion of a clinical team specializing in early childhood education for youth who have experienced significant trauma.
The grant announcement took place during the 2026 NBA Playoffs Round 1, Game 2 at TD Garden, during the Celtics’ matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, where representatives from both groups were recognized as part of an in-game presentation highlighting nonprofit organizations. Under the premise of being featured for their work, each was surprised with the news of their selection as Fast Break Fund grant recipients.
