Meet the Team
Bag always said we're all on the same team. That's never been more true than with the people who keep Bag's Buddies running.
Our board is made up of John "Bag" Hefti's family and friends—those who knew him best. We're committed to honoring his legacy by maximizing the impact of every donation toward supporting future community leaders.
Board of Directors
Patricia Hefti
President of the Board
As John's wife, Patricia leads our foundation with love and dedication. She ensures that every aspect of Bag's Buddies reflects the values and spirit that defined her husband's life. Under her leadership, we've awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships and expanded our youth sports programs across Virginia Beach.
Patricia's vision keeps us focused on what matters most: helping young athletes discover what they're capable of.
Buzz Hefti
Vice President of the Board
As John's father, Buzz brings a lifetime of perspective to our mission. His wisdom and steady guidance help shape the foundation's direction. Buzz is instrumental in connecting with the Virginia Beach community and ensuring that his son's legacy continues to grow.
James Hefti
Treasurer of the Board
As John's brother, James manages the financial stewardship of Bag's Buddies with care and precision. He ensures that we operate with extremely low overhead so that donations have maximum impact on the young athletes we serve.
Adam Hefti
Board Member & Scholarship Committee Chair
As John's son, Adam carries forward his father's commitment to youth development. He leads our Scholarship Committee, reviewing applications and helping select recipients who truly embody the Bag's Buddies spirit. Adam is particularly focused on finding students who demonstrate the same character his dad valued most.
Trey Faulkner
Secretary of the Board & Bag's Buddies Racing Coordinator
Trey keeps our organization running smoothly while also leading Bag's Buddies Racing. As a close friend of the family, he brings energy and organizational skills to everything from board meetings to race day logistics. If you've run with us at the Shamrock Marathon, you've probably seen Trey in action.
Kathleen Faulkner
Board Member & Gala Committee Chair
Kathleen chairs our Bag's Big Bash planning committee, transforming our annual gala into an unforgettable celebration. Her attention to detail and passion for the cause have helped grow the event year after year—raising over $35,000 in 2024 alone.
Our Volunteers
Bag's Buddies is powered by an amazing team of volunteers who show up—just like Bag always did.
Our volunteers help with:
- Event Planning — Making Bag's Big Bash unforgettable
- Race Support — Cheering on our racing team at events
- Community Outreach — Spreading the word about our mission
- Youth Sports Programs — Helping distribute equipment and support families
- Administrative Support — Keeping everything running smoothly
Every volunteer is part of the team. We couldn't do this work without them.
Join Our Team
There are many ways to get involved with Bag's Buddies:
Volunteer
Help with events, outreach, or administrative tasks. No experience necessary—just a willingness to serve and a belief that young athletes deserve support.
Serve on a Committee
Join one of our working committees:
- Scholarship Committee — Review applications and help select recipients
- Gala Committee — Plan and execute Bag's Big Bash
- Youth Sports Committee — Help expand our youth sports programs
Run With Us
Join Bag's Buddies Racing and represent us at the Shamrock Marathon and other local races. It's a great way to support student-athletes mile by mile.
Partner With Us
Organizations and businesses can partner with Bag's Buddies through event sponsorships, in-kind donations, and collaborative programs like our youth sports initiatives.
Support Our Mission
Every donation helps us award more scholarships and fund youth sports programs. Whether you give $25 or $2,500, you're part of the team.
We're All on the Same Team
That's what Bag believed, and that's how we operate. Donors, volunteers, families, athletes, board members—everyone who supports Bag's Buddies is part of something bigger.
We'd love for you to join us.
Contact us | Make a donation | Learn about Bag
Together, we're keeping Bag's spirit alive and supporting the next generation of Virginia Beach student-athletes.
Play Hard, Have Fun, Same Team.