A Year of Firsts

This has been a year of “firsts” for us. Some of them, have been ridiculously hard and painful: The first Christmas without Matthew, first anniversaries and birthdays, without him, first family vacations with 3 of us instead of 4. BUT, some of these firsts have been amazing. it is the first full year of Matthew’s Helping Hands.

One year ago, in November, was our very first Matthew’s Helping Hands event. In the pouring rain and freezing cold, we had volunteers come out and work like crazy to make Matthew’s Helping Hands Kick-off Carnival a huge success! We even had one of the little ones tell us that it was the best day of her life!

It has been a first year of incredible partnerships throughout our community. We have worked with BB&T, Matthews Playhouse, Southeastern Institute, Marvin Ridge HS Theater, the Marvin Creek Community and Sangrock Black Belt World, to put on some incredible events.

It has been the first year of providing special moments to kids and families affected by autism and other developmental exceptionalities. Moments, where they are able to relax have fun and be who they are with no judgment or stress.

After this first year, we are taking a moment to celebrate. We are celebrating Matthew. Our sweet boy who brought us love and light everywhere he was. With his smile and kind soul, he made a difference in this world and in ten years, he brought a lifetime of love and happiness. It is Matthew that inspires us everyday to make a positive impact on the world around us. We are celebrating Matthew’s Helping Hands and the positive impact that it are making in the lives of children with autism and related special needs. We are celebrating children and families and we are celebrating a community that is joining together to make a difference and we are inviting you to celebrate with us