Peter Frates ALS Foundation Launches NWN Impact Award
The annual award honors individuals or groups advancing awareness, funding, and research for ALS in the mission of Pete Frates.
Updated on Nov. 14, 2026 in Philanthropy
The Peter Frates ALS Foundation and NWN announced the annual NWN Pete Frates Impact Award, which will recognize individuals or groups who exemplify Pete Frates' mission to raise awareness, funding and scientific research for ALS. The inaugural award will be presented February 20, 2027, at a Boston College Eagles men's ice hockey game at Conte Forum.
Why it matters
The award recognizes those now leading the fight for an ALS cure following Pete Frates' death in 2019. It extends the legacy of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which Frates helped create.
The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has generated more than $1 billion for ALS research since 2014, according to the announcing organizations. Details on how the funds were allocated across research and patient support were not included in the announcement.
The players
Peter Frates ALS Foundation
A nonprofit organization founded to honor Pete Frates that raises funds for ALS patients, families and research.
NWN
The organization that partnered with the Peter Frates ALS Foundation to present the award.
Mike Pitt
Executive Director of The Peter Frates ALS Foundation, overseeing its fundraising and research partnerships.
The details
The Peter Frates ALS Foundation, which raises funds to help patients and families battling ALS and partners with Mass General Hospital to find a cure, announced the award in partnership with NWN. Frates, a former Boston College baseball star, was diagnosed with ALS in 2013 and helped create the Ice Bucket Challenge.
Timeline
2013: Pete Frates is diagnosed with ALS.
2014: Ice Bucket Challenge fundraising begins.
2019: Pete Frates dies.
November 13, 2026: The award is announced.
February 20, 2027: The inaugural award is presented at a Boston College men's ice hockey game.
Legacy Effort
The award builds on the 2014 ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which Pete Frates helped create and which has generated more than $1 billion for ALS research. It shifts the campaign's momentum toward a recurring honor for those carrying the work forward.
The award gives donors and supporters a visible way to recognize leaders in ALS research and patient care in the Boston area. Readers interested in attending the February 2027 presentation can plan around the Boston College hockey schedule at Conte Forum.
The takeaway
Ongoing public support can outlast a single fundraising moment when it is tied to lasting recognition and research partnerships. Readers who want to support ALS work can consider contributing to local organizations like the Peter Frates ALS Foundation.
What happens next
The inaugural NWN Pete Frates Impact Award will be presented on February 20, 2027, at a Boston College Eagles men's ice hockey game at Conte Forum.
Further reading
Explore more philanthropy coverage for Boston-area charitable efforts and nonprofit giving.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Boston News, Weather, Sports | WHDH 7News.
