July 17, 2024, Peapack, NJ – Disability Pride Month is celebrated each July. This year’s theme is “We Want a Life Like Yours” and marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landmark legislation that removed barriers to inclusion for people with disabilities.
The Friends of Matheny, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Matheny’s programs that enrich lives of people with disabilities. The Friends recently presented their 2024 donation of $125,000, a $25,000 increase over recent years. $100,000 of this gift has been designated to support Matheny’s Durable Medical Equipment (DME) program and $25,000 will go to the Arts Access program. The Friends have also provided additional funds that will be used to support ongoing programs such as Matheny’s annual Wish List and the Student Family Support Fund. Matheny staff are invited to submit requests that will benefit their students and patients. Such items include supplies and equipment for programs and experiences and trips for patients and students – items that are not otherwise covered by Matheny’s budget. According to Aimee Hunnewell, Matheny’s Chief Development Officer, “The Friends annually grant wishes that positively impact so many lives. These programs and experiences make a lasting impression and greatly enhance the quality of life for the people we serve.”
“We were thrilled to learn of the generous $25,000 donation earmarked for Arts Access. This support will truly make a difference and their ongoing support is invaluable in helping us continue our mission of providing innovative programs and services and promoting inclusivity and creativity within our community;” says Heather Williams, Arts Access Program Director.
This year’s donation also included a $100,000 gift to Matheny’s DME Program. Sue Baumann, Director of the Rehabilitation Technology department stated, “We are very thankful to The Friends for this very generous donation! Our department focuses on client’s positioning and safety needs. Thanks to The Friends, we will be able to continue to fabricate custom positioning equipment, safeguarding equipment, and bed and wheelchair replacement covers to name a few.” She added, “We will also continue to modify sleepwear, stabilize toys and communication devices, and provide repair parts for our patients’ wheelchairs. ”
The Friends of Matheny have embraced the spirit of Disability Pride month. Their 40-year commitment and contributions to individuals with disabilities is extraordinary. “We are delighted to support Matheny and the wonderful work they do,” says Debi DeLorenzo, President of The Friends. “Our donation of $125,000 this year will be divided between two very important areas. It will help the children and adults reach their full potential and we couldn’t be happier.” Continuing their long standing tradition of supporting Matheny both financially and through volunteerism, to date, The Friends have donated over $3.5 million dollars to Matheny. Most of those funds are generated through sales of at the Second Chance Thrift Shop located at 4 Church Street, Gladstone. This award-winning thrift shop is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays year round.
*Read in the Bernardsville News here.
