GONZO'S LEGACY
GONZO'S LEGACY:
THE ZACK DEFREITAS PROJECT
Inspiring Impactful Change In The Hockey Community
& Raising Awareness For Colorectal Cancer
WHO WE ARE
Friends, Family & Teammates
Gonzo's Legacy is an Illinois-based nonprofit organization that was created in memory of Zack Defreitas, a compassionate and kind-hearted soul who lost his life to colorectal cancer at the young age of 30. Zack was a dedicated hockey player and a beloved member of the hockey community, and his passing left a profound impact on all those who knew him. In his memory, Gonzo's Legacy: The Zack Defreitas Project was established to honor Zack's legacy and to continue his commitment to helping others.
​
One of the primary goals of Gonzo's Legacy is to raise awareness about colorectal cancer in young people. Colorectal cancer is often thought of as a disease that affects older adults, but it can strike at any age. Our organization aims to educate young people about the importance of early detection and regular screenings, as well as to provide support and resources for those who are currently battling the disease.
​
In addition to raising awareness about colorectal cancer, Gonzo's Legacy is also dedicated to helping underserved youth in the hockey community. The organization provides material support and financial aid to young hockey players who may be facing financial or other challenges that could prevent them from participating in the sport they love. By removing these barriers, Gonzo's Legacy is helping to ensure that all young people have access to the benefits and joys of playing the sport that Zack dedicated so much of his life to.
​
Gonzo's Legacy is a testament to the enduring impact that Zack had on the world around him. Through the work of the organization, his memory lives on, and his commitment to helping others continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Whether by raising awareness about colorectal cancer or ensuring a young hockey player can play the sport they love, Gonzo's Legacy is a powerful force for good in the world, and a fitting tribute to the remarkable person who inspired its creation.
WAYS WE HELP
The Focus of Our Charitable Efforts:
AWARENESS
Through ongoing promotional efforts, Gonzo's Legacy is dedicated to raising awareness about the risk of colorectal cancer in young people. We partner with area medical organizations and local businesses to promote early testing for this deadly disease through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community outreach.
MATERIAL SUPPORT
In continuing Zack's passion for the game he loved, we at Gonzo's Legacy don't believe that financial need should be a barrier for any young person who wants to play hockey. Whether it be equipment, team dues, or travel costs, Gonzo's Legacy seeks to provide material support to youth hockey players in need of financial support.
EDUCATION
By providing young people in the hockey community with the information, resources & tools they need to equip themselves in the fight against colorectal cancer, Gonzo's Legacy aims to prevent even one more young person from being diagnosed with this disease before it's too late. Above all else, we believe early education saves lives.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
We believe that you share our commitment to improving the lives of those in our community, and we are asking for your help in supporting Gonzo's Legacy. Your generous donation will directly benefit underprivileged kids in the hockey community, providing them with equipment, ice time, coaching, and mentorship that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to access. Additionally, your contribution will help raise awareness for colorectal cancer and encourage people to get screened for this preventable disease.
Nominate A Player:
Are you a coach, parent, or member of a youth hockey organization with a player needing our support? Enter their information below and we'll send you a copy of our financial aid application to be reviewed by our Scholarship Board