During the 2025‑26 season the Washington Capitals, their players and the Monumental Sports & Entertainment Foundation collectively raised more than $1.8 million for a wide spectrum of charitable causes, underscoring the franchise’s deep commitment to the communities that surround the Capital.
A centerpiece of the effort was the MSE Foundation 50/50 raffle, which alone generated $824,417. The proceeds were funneled to a variety of local programs, reinforcing the foundation’s mission to broaden access to sport and social services.
Through the Capital Impact Fund, six nonprofit organizations received a combined $70,000 in grants aimed at removing barriers to hockey participation for youth across the Washington, D.C. region.
In a gesture of personal involvement, Ted Leonsis matched each $5,000 grant awarded to the eight employee resource groups of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, resulting in a total of $80,000 directed to community initiatives.
Building Playgrounds for the Next Generation
A partnership between the MSE Foundation, The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School and KABOOM! produced the school’s first playground, a project that will benefit roughly 6,741 children throughout the District.
The inaugural EXP Esports Benefit livestream further extended the reach of the campaign, raising funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington and highlighting the growing intersection of sports and digital entertainment.
The Caps Canine Calendar photoshoot added $106,910 to the tally, supporting Wolf Trap Animal Rescue and the MSE Foundation, while a collaboration with the Washington Nationals funneled $38,706.59 into targeted revitalization efforts in Wards 7 and 8.
In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, a $10,000 grant was awarded to the Latino Student Fund, celebrating cultural contributions and fostering educational opportunities.
Addressing food insecurity, the foundation coordinated a food‑drive that collected non‑perishable items and allocated $100,000 in grants to local hunger‑relief organizations, reinforcing its year‑round commitment to basic needs.
A high‑profile auction focused on cancer research generated $116,365.45, with proceeds distributed to a suite of cancer‑related charities, illustrating the breadth of the foundation’s health‑focused outreach.
During the holiday season, the foundation provided nearly $200,000 in direct support and resources, including festive gifts for families served by the Salvation Army’s Turning Point Center.
First Responders Night featured a $10,000 check to HEROES Inc. and an additional $27,030 raised for the DC Fire & EMS Foundation, honoring those who protect the community daily.
The Pride Auction contributed $31,107, directing funds to the Wanda Alston Foundation and You Can Play, organizations that champion LGBTQ+ youth and inclusive sports participation.
Alumni and current roster members joined forces in the Caps Fore Charity event, while the Cherry Blossom Auction added $95,629 for the MSE Foundation and City Blossoms, a local urban gardening nonprofit.
Mental Health Awareness night included a $10,000 grant to Shoulder Check and reinforced the league’s ongoing dialogue around psychological well‑being.
Finally, a garage‑sale style fundraiser at MedStar Capitals Iceplex brought in $58,658, rounding out a season in which every initiative — big or small — contributed to a cumulative impact that resonated throughout the Washington, D.C. region.