Who We Are

The Matthew C. Baumeister Foundation was founded in memory of our son, who died suddenly on May 11, 2005, at the age of 19. Matthew was a compassionate and caring young man who we believe would have done great things for this world and made a difference in people’s lives. He was one of those special people who seemed to smile from the inside out. His love of life made everyone around him happy. People sought him out because he was bright, sensitive, concerned and had a great sense of humor. He knew how to laugh and make those around him laugh too. Because he cared about people, not just his friends and family but anyone in need, we have created this foundation to perform acts of kindness in Matthew’s name. We believe that Matthew led a life that mattered and that the impact he had on others will long survive him. It is now our responsibility, through this foundation, to effect positive change in the lives of young people. As detailed below, the Foundation has a broad reach but the projects it supports are always oriented to helping young people who have been forced to deal with adversity in their young lives and need that extra help to succeed.

The Matthew C. Baumeister Foundation is a Memorial Fund, which is structured as a donor-advised fund sponsored by a 501(c)(3) public charity, established by Matthew’s parents, Lynn and Mitch and his brother Jared. The Foundation’s reach is expansive, and it is the Foundation’s intention to recommend grants be used to empower youth who face adversity – from providing comfort and solace to a hospital patient with a cuddly teddy bear to clutch, to supporting academic scholarships and awards to children who have faced some adversity in their early life and need a little extra support to be successful.

Matthew’s short life was filled with strength, courage and compassion, traits that inspired us to help others in Matthew’s name.