Over the years, we have received countless thank you notes from those who have benefited from the programs we have been involved with and support in Matthew’s memory. Below are just a sampling of those testimonials.
“How does FHCDS thank the Baumeisters for this gift to our students, a gift that is critical to their success and an integral part of our mission? We will thank them by encouraging each child’s potential, by seeing the star within each child, and by helping our children to live their elementary school years fully, as Matthew lived his. In the words so eloquently expressed by Matthew in his 8th grade yearbook,’No love, no friendship can cross the path of our destiny without leaving some mark on it forever,’ Matthew indeed left a mark on FHCDS, and his family’s generous gift in his memory will leave a lasting mark on all the students who benefit from this exciting new academic enrichment program.”
– FHCDS Head of School
“My first experience with the MALL began in 6th grade. My self esteem, the confidence in my work and my ability to work independently grew tremendously. . . because of the MALL program. The MALL is a place where. . . I can find quiet moments to take a deep breath and refocus. I feel the MALL and those who care for all of us there are our advocates, creating the bridge we sometimes need to reach our teachers and to help them understand the way we need to learn. Last year…with all the tools I learned with the help of the MALL, I was able to give back by helping some of the younger kids involved in the program. School, before my introduction to the MALL was completely overwhelming. I will always be grateful to you for creating the MALL in honor of your son. I am learning. I am thriving as a student and I know I now have what it takes to be successful in life. Thank you for remembering all of us with learning differences, you have made an enormous impact on my life.
“We are very grateful to people like you for helping programs such as the MALL have a place in our wonderful school. The MALL has become a place of learning, academic support and guidance, a place to study and ask questions during study halls. It has helped us a lot this year. The teachers and counselors have worked together to create a place where we can all learn and understand our work better and improve our study skills.”
– 8th grade students who are twins and both have used the MALL
“Somewhere out there Matthew is looking down upon us and I would like to think he is very much approving the selection of {my son} They share that thirst for living, love of friendship and laughter, and that tireless search for high adventure that sets them apart from the ordinary. Receiving this award will undoubtedly give {my son} renewed strength, comfort and confidence to be all that he can in defiance of the fear and humiliation he felt. . . Matthew’s presence seemed to have the effect of sunshine in all of the lives he touched.”
– Parent of recipient
“It was a privilege to receive the Matthew C Baumeister Award established by you in memory of your son, Matthew. It was gratifying to both myself and my family to know that you felt me worthy of the honor. I will move forward embued with the spirit and memory of your son that you have so graciously left with me.”
– Student
Since Matthew really loved his time at Bucknell and often spoke about how great the school was and how much he was learning, we have supported a scholarship there since 2006, that focuses on a student who has overcome a significant personal obstacle in order to attend Bucknell. The scholarship provides financial support during the entire four years of college. We are proud to have supported two college graduates and now our third Bucknell scholar is well on his way.
“Ten years ago, I never would have thought that I would be here, at Bucknell University, a university in a foreign country and that I would be in this position of giving thanks for an opportunity. And yet, here I am. . . writing to show my appreciation to someone who has reinstalled my belief in possibility and change. Moving out of the war torn country of former, Yugoslavia, my family made a step towards bettering our future, Bucknell, by accepting me has opened a door that I will let be a passageway into a new world. In this new world, I know that I will be taught and shaped into an even stronger, more well rounded and aware individual. I am very grateful. . . that I am here at such a prestigious educational institution.”
“Another year has gone by- a year that I could not have spent at Bucknell if it had not been for your help. As you know, throughout my life, struggle and hardship seemed to accompany me everywhere. With this scholarship. . . I can feel your support and it makes me feel stronger. It empowers me and motivates me even more.”
“Thank you so much for contributing to my education and experience at Bucknell. I have truly had a wonderful time here and can sincerely say that Bucknell has become a second home for me.”
“We are deeply appreciative of your continued support for this scholarship fund. Your generosity has made it possibly for many dynamic and passionate students, for whom tuition would otherwise be out of reach, to enjoy the myriad benefits of an NA education. We are so grateful that you have chosen to honor Matthew’s memory in this way, and proud that this scholarship fund can serve as a fitting and meaningful tribute to your son’s life.
On behalf of Newark’s Academy’s current students and faculty, as well as those yet to come, thank you for your support.”
– Donald A. Austin, Head of School
“While I know that a letter from me is a mixed blessing because of the memories it brings, I also know that there is joy in keeping Matthew’s memory alive.
[A student] is a fine young man and has finished another year at the academy with a B+ average. He continues to be a smiling, friendly, helpful presence in the halls of Newark Academy when not busy dancing, dancing, dancing.
Thank you again for choosing to help another young person realize a Newark Academy education as a way to honor Matthew.”
– Kathleen Cronheim, Associate Director of Advancement
“Your generous support of the Matthew Bear Program is a wonderful tribute to your son’s memory that brings comfort and joy to so many young patients and their families.”
– Dr. L. Goldman
