“I am different, not less.”
I just wanted to share a little something about my big brother Matty and why I decided to start this foundation in his honor.
Matty is a constant in my life and he always has been. Even though he is no longer here on earth with us physically, I can still feel him humming or jumping along to one of his favorite Disney songs. He had a way of making someone feel better without words. Matty always knew how to put a smile on someone's face. Many people he lived within his group home called him a Teddy Bear because of his big bear hugs. Growing up with a brother with autism was at times challenging just like any other sibling could be, but there is not a single thing in the world I would change about my time with Matty.
Our mission throughout this foundation is to celebrate Matty's life. We are determined to donate to some of the programs in which he attended throughout his lifetime. We are also eager to participate in fundraising for some of the other charities and organizations of which Matty loved to be a part. This gives people with autism and other abilities a chance to participate in appropriate programs in which fit their own personal needs and desires.
"Happiness is a state of mind. It's just according to the way you look at things." -Walt Disney—
Kristen Pellegrinelli
President of The Matty Pellegrinelli Foundation