Providence, R.I. — A new nonprofit foundation has been established to honor the memory of Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan, who were among three family members fatally shot during a hockey game in Pawtucket earlier this year. The Wings of Hope: The Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan Foundation aims to support single mothers in enabling their children to participate in youth sports.

On Feb. 16, Rhonda Dorgan, 52, her son Aidan, 23, and her father Gerald Dorgan, 75, were killed when Rhonda’s former husband opened fire inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena during a senior night celebration for the Blackstone Valley Co-op hockey team. The family had come to support Colin Dorgan, Rhonda’s other son, who was on the team and celebrating his senior year.

Aidan intervened in an effort to protect his mother and was killed in the process. The tragedy deeply affected the local sports community and spurred friends and family to create the foundation in their memory.

Monique Nunes, a family friend and president of the organization, said the foundation will focus on assisting single mothers with the financial burden associated with youth sports, such as the cost of equipment, travel, and tournament expenses. She recalled Rhonda’s dedication to supporting her children’s participation in sports despite significant financial challenges, working multiple jobs to meet those demands.

“Rhonda believed being part of a team was vital not because of competition, but for the community and support it provided,” Nunes said. She hopes Wings of Hope will help families continue to access those opportunities without the stress of prohibitive costs. The foundation may also extend its outreach to provide academic scholarships or support for those affected by trauma in the future.

The Blackstone Valley Co-op hockey team, which persevered through the tragedy, went on to win the Rhode Island Interscholastic League Division II boys hockey championship in March. However, the team is now seeking approximately $3,000 to replace uniforms and equipment, which they hope will provide a fresh start for the new season.

Coach Chris Librizzi said the team meets monthly for therapy as they continue to process the trauma. “Time goes on, but the impact of what happened remains very present for those involved,” Librizzi said.

Ava Dorgan, Rhonda’s daughter, said the foundation is a way to carry on the legacy of her mother and brother. She described her mother as a nurturing figure who supported and cared for everyone around her, and her brother as a brave presence always looking out for his family.

Later this week, the Blackstone Valley team will return to the Pawtucket arena to play a special fundraiser game against their parents and coaches, with first responders also participating. Proceeds will help support the team’s ongoing needs.

While Wings of Hope is in its early stages, Nunes emphasized its potential to make meaningful differences in families' lives by honoring Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan’s commitment to community, resilience, and love. “Their light will continue to shine through this foundation,” she said.