Starting in 2023, with the help of Ben’s classmates a small, one-time fundraiser turned into something bigger and more durable. Building momentum over the course of these last three years our effort has grown and evolved with the dedication, generosity and help of our committee, volunteer network and the community at large. The BDF mission is to support charitable organizations that align with and reflect the values Ben lived by; kindness, fairness and generosity. Due to the overwhelming support of our family, friends, and countless other supporters our year over year distributions have increased and continue to increase as we look forward to 2026. Please see below for more information about the organizations we support locally and nationally.

Benjamin Dufour
August 6, 2004 — April 26, 2023

Ben was raised in Whitman, attended the Duval Elementary School and the Whitman Middle School, and was currently a Senior at the South Shore Technical High School specializing in the automotive trade. He joined Coastal Volkswagen in March of 2023 as a co-op student where he was building and honing his new skills. Ben was a sweet, compassionate person who had a way of seeing the kindness in others and bringing the best out of them.

He had an incredible imagination, and a love for Lego's that would shine through with the many elaborate Lego structures he created. Ben had a loyal and supportive group of close friends, and even when they chose different high schools, they were devoted to spending hours together gaming on-line and in person. Elaborate game nights were organized for years by the boy's moms on a regular basis.

Ben had a special bond with his sister, Quinn, and took as much joy in teasing her as spending time gaming or just hanging out together. Ben’s dog Lucy was his most beloved companion, and she will forever miss her boy. Above all else Ben loved his family. He looked forward to holidays and occasions where he would be surrounded by the people who loved him the most. He will be deeply missed by the many people he touched while he was with us.