SPRINGFIELD — The second annual Party with 1 Purpose lit up the Basketball Hall of Fame on Oct. 4, bringing together a sold-out crowd for an evening of inspiration, generosity, and community. Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, the event raised nearly $470,000 to support Breakthrough T1D’s mission to accelerate life-changing research and ultimately cure type 1 diabetes (T1D).
The evening featured a silent auction filled with unique experiences and local treasures, along with an energetic new live auction that had guests raising their paddles for exclusive trips, dining experiences, and one-of-a-kind items, all to fuel T1D research.
Guests were deeply moved by the stories shared throughout the night. Speaker Katie Bone — a professional rock climber, American Ninja Warrior champion, and proud T1D advocate — delivered a powerful message about perseverance and strength in the face of T1D.
One of the most emotional highlights came during the Fund a Cure segment, featuring a touching video spotlighting Beth, Shane, and Braden Kouflie. Their story — alongside other local T1D warriors — captured the daily realities of living with diabetes and the hope that drives this community forward. Their heartfelt words inspired an outpouring of generosity, resulting in a record-breaking Fund a Cure moment.
The weekend continued on a high note on Oct. 5 with a special event at Pioneer Gymnastics Center in East Longmeadow, where Bone led demonstrations and gave local kids the chance to try out fun, ninja-style activities while hearing her inspiring story as a T1D athlete. The uplifting session brought together Breakthrough T1D families for a morning of connection, encouragement, and empowerment.
“Party with 1 Purpose has become more than just a gala — it’s a movement,” David Fontaine Jr. said. “To see our community come together again, sell out the event, and raise nearly half a million dollars toward a cure — it’s truly humbling.”
All proceeds from the evening will directly fund Breakthrough T1D’s critical research and advocacy work, supporting the more than 1.4 million Americans living with T1D.
Due to overwhelming success and community support, organizers have already announced that Party with 1 Purpose will return next year on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026.
