The centre has been funded by the Hasbro Foundation in honour of former Hasbro chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner.

Hasbro has announced the launch of the Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Futures to honour the life and legacy of Hasbro’s longtime Chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner, who passed away last October.

The Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Futures, funded by a $2.5m contribution from the Hasbro Foundation, will provide multi-year social impact investments with a singular mission of transforming and uplifting lives.

Brian Goldner was a visionary for play, entertainment and storytelling, and he also championed Hasbro’s business as a force for good. During his tenure leading Hasbro, he expanded the company beyond toys and games into entertainment, digital gaming and more – building essential touch points with Hasbro’s fans worldwide. He was particularly passionate about lifting others up through mentorship and opportunity and improving systems of care for vulnerable members of society.

“Brian’s generous, charismatic and passionate leadership made him beloved by the Hasbro community and beyond,” said Kathrin Belliveau, chief purpose officer, Hasbro. “We feel privileged to continue to honour his incredible legacy through the Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Futures and uphold his strong belief in building opportunities for all.”

Grants made by the Hasbro Foundation focus on its philanthropic mission to empower generations of storytellers, create sustainable impact and spark joy through play.

“My husband Brian put so much heart into his role leading Hasbro, and what he loved most was the opportunity to bring joy and laughter to children and families around the world,” said Brian’s wife, Barbara Goldner. “He was always looking to help those who might need to be lifted up in life. Our family is truly touched that Hasbro is launching the Brian Goldner Center for Transforming Futures to honour his legacy and continue advancing the causes that were most important to him.”

The centre’s investments will support three non-profit organisations benefiting causes that were greatly significant to Brian, including:

• The Brian Goldner Student Support Fund with Year Up, which provides young adults (ages 18-29) with job training and corporate internships to connect them with meaningful careers.
• The Brian Goldner Storytelling Fellowship at the Ghetto Film School, which provides underrepresented artists in Los Angeles, New York and London the opportunity to enter the film industry through a 30-month visual storytelling course.
• The Brian Goldner Flights of Hope with Angel Flight Northeast, which provides free air and ground transportation for children and adults to receive lifesaving medical treatment across the US. The Hasbro Foundation will provide annual support for five years to Angel Flight Northeast, flying patients in Goldner’s honour.

To learn more about the Hasbro Foundation and the Brian Goldner Center, click here.