About the Foundation

The B.J. Ryan’s Foundation was created in 2010 as a community-driven base for charitable giving. Building on the friendly spirit of the Norwalk-based restaurants, the foundation provides time, resources and funds to deserving local and regional not-for-profit organizations and individuals in crisis.

The organization is funded through direct contributions and proceeds from special events. To date, the foundation has offered assistance through a variety of avenues to organizations such as STAR, inc., Whittingham Cancer Center, Norwalk Education Foundation, Open Door Shelter, Al’s Angels, Norwalk Children’s Foundation, The Courage to Speak, Wounded Warrior Project, The Michael Dorris Family, A.C.H.I.E.V.E., The March of Dimes, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and all the Norwalk schools.

One of  The Foundation's largest undertakings is a four year college scholarship to a  Norwalk or Brien McMahon high school students.

During the holidays The BJ Ryan's Foundation runs a "No Shave November" campaign which raises money to feed over 100 local underprivileged families on Thanksgiving Day. 

At Christmastime, The Foundation partners with the Norwalk Police Department to provide food for up to 500 people at a luncheon for an event where Santa gives gifts to underprivileged children.

With no administrative costs and 501(c)3 status, tax ID #27-2384886, The B.J. Ryan’s Foundation seeks to build a healthy fund through donations from generous individuals and corporations and to use the resources available through the restaurant to give back to the community.

To support the B.J. Ryan’s Foundation, make a donation, or obtain further information about the organization, its mission and upcoming events, please call the restaurant at 203-866-RYAN and ask for B.J. Lawless.