Here at Matheny, we are so grateful to our many volunteers who have given of their time and talents to support our clients, events, and special projects. There is so much we couldn’t have achieved without their tremendous support!

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 19-25), we are highlighting some of our outstanding volunteers and their specific contributions. Below you can find the interview with our second Spotlight Volunteer: Ben Fernandez.

You learned about Matheny after meeting Arts Access artist, Isabell Villacis. Can you tell us a bit about that day, your artistic background, and how meeting Isabell drew you to volunteering in the Arts Access Program?

Ben: I am a mixed media artist and recent graduate of Caldwell University with a B.F.A. in Studio Art with a concentration in mixed media, and a minor in Art History. As I was installing a solo show at a local venue, I became acquainted with Isabell Villacis, an enthusiastic and high-spirited individual and fellow artist. As we discussed our creative backgrounds, she eagerly shared with me the various classes and exhibitions in which she has been involved as a client with the Arts Access Program at Matheny, where she has benefitted from a supportive environment and an enriching outlet for her creativity, in which she can be herself.

In addition to my studio practice, I support people with different abilities through my work assisting with art programs at a local therapeutic recreation center, facilitating artist talks for my solo exhibitions, and caring for my loving brother with special needs. Inspired by my background, I went on a tour of the Robert Schonhorn Arts Center at Matheny to learn more about all that Arts Access has to offer. I was so amazed with the beautiful facility and gallery space, the friendly staff, and the wonderful opportunities offered that I decided to join as a volunteer, excited to apply my skills and experience toward this important cause of the creation and exhibition of art being accessible for all.

What have you come to learn about the artists through the process of handling their artwork, and how has your perception of the artists and their creative voices evolved?

B: As I installed artwork in the gallery, I was overwhelmed with awe at the effort and passion these artists invest into their work, as well as the care that goes into the presentation of each piece. Displaying elements such as line, shape, color, tone, space, texture and composition, every work reflects a client’s personal expression and creative intention.

What does it mean to you to help bring these works into a space where others can experience them?

B: I believe that art is a universal language, transcending boundaries of creativity and communication, with each piece being a unique experience shaped by exploration, risk-taking and discovery. Establishing vital connections with viewers of all backgrounds, art is a vehicle for personal engagement and insight as well as shared understanding. It is important that the work produced by the artists at Matheny is shared with the community, as knowledge and appreciation of artists with different abilities can inspire others to explore how art can be more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Here at Matheny, we are so grateful to our many volunteers who have given of their time and talents to support our clients, events, and special projects. There is so much we couldn’t have achieved without their tremendous support!

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 19-25), we are highlighting some of our outstanding volunteers and their specific contributions. Below you can find the interview with our first Spotlight Volunteer: Anshini Biswas.

We recently sat down with Anshini Biswas, a local student and current weekend volunteer at Matheny. Anshini volunteers with Matheny’s Life Enrichment Therapy programs, assisting staff with recreational activities that promote mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. The recreation therapy program encourages development of leisure, social, and community skills through purposeful leisure activities and community trips.

What inspired you to start volunteering at Matheny, and what drew you specifically to Life Enrichment Therapies?

Anshini: My inspiration for volunteering at Matheny comes from wanting a place to spend time that is going to be beneficial both now and in the future. For me, the desire to help others has always been a driving force in my life; however, it has never been limited to just volunteering and has primarily involved doing things that only require an individual’s time and effort. What attracted me to Life Enrichment Therapy was its creativity and interactivity than most types of volunteer programs offer to participants, along with helping connect participants through activities such as art, music, and movement. I want both the participant and me, as a volunteer, to feel that we have formed a bond during our time together.

What has surprised you most about your experience so far?

A: I’m amazed at how soon I was able to adapt and feel included; the friendly, encouraging atmosphere contributed to my adaptation rather quickly because I thought I would initially have feelings of anxiety and/or uncertainty. Moreover, I was surprised by the number of ways in which everyone expressed communication among themselves individually, so even without sounds, you could still easily communicate feelings, laughter, and personality, which has really changed my perspective on communication.

Can you share a moment that stood out to you or made you feel especially connected to the residents?

A: I remember an occasion when I was assisting with an activity, and one of the participants smiled and responded in a very positive way to something small I did for them, such as playing music they liked and providing support with a task. While this was not a very large moment, it was still meaningful to me because it was easy to see that this person was truly happy. The experience strengthened my connection to the person and demonstrated how even small actions can have a very big influence on someone’s day.

What have you learned from the people you’ve worked with?

A: Patience, empathy, and not making assumptions are all things I have discovered for myself. Through my work experiences, I have discovered how unique each individual’s experience of the same situation is and that the difference does not diminish anyone’s worth. Nonverbal cues are also very important to me now, as is being in the moment, which are skills I am not usually aware of when I am doing other things.

How has volunteering here shaped your perspective, either personally or academically?

A: While I’ve volunteered within this community, my views have changed. I found myself being more grateful and also focusing on others more compared to before I got involved. Before I started volunteering, I never thought about studying healthcare/psychology or any profession where I would work with individuals who had disabilities. I’m now seeing that the things I am learning in my classes can be directly correlated to what I do in my daily life and when interacting with others.

What would you say to other high school students who are thinking about getting involved at Matheny?

A: If you’re a high school student and are considering taking part in this program, I would highly recommend it, even if you’re worried about trying something new! The benefits of participating will far exceed anything that you could have possibly imagined. You’ll develop a great deal of confidence through this experience, you will also develop some great skills that you’ll be able to use throughout your life, and you’ll have the opportunity to create some very special friendships with others who participate in this program. It will provide you with an opportunity to really challenge yourself and think about things in a completely different way as well!

Save the date for Career Expo at Matheny on April 16 from 3-7 pm!

Are you looking for a rewarding career with excellent pay and benefits? We are hiring!

Join our compassionate team of professionals working together to provide exceptional care and an optimal quality of life for children and adults with special needs and medically complex developmental disabilities.

Events on the day:

• Meet and greet with organization leadership
• On the spot interviews

Jobs available include:

• Hospital DSP
• Group Home DSP
• Nursing (RN/LPN)
• Environmental Services
• Physical Therapy
• Respiratory Therapy
• Transportation
• IT
• School Paraprofessional
• School Teacher

Registration for this event on our Careers page, or send an email to jobs@matheny.org with any questions!

Join us for a special evening with local historian, W. Barry Thomson, and learn how Matheny came to be a special school and hospital on the hilltop. Founded in 1946, Matheny’s rich history and deep roots in the Somerset Hills will be told by someone who saw much of it firsthand.

This event is FREE, but registration is recommended. Click here to save your spot. Space is limited!