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Scholarships
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation (MMMF) awards two annual scholarships to seniors at Plum High School, reflecting Mark's dedication to service and his involvement in the community. The first is a $1,000 scholarship awarded to a graduating JROTC cadet, recognizing their commitment to leadership and service. The second scholarship is for a graduating senior who has served as a junior firefighter with any of the four Plum fire stations. These scholarships support young individuals pursuing higher education, while honoring Mark’s legacy of selfless service and dedication to helping others.
Cookie Drive
Mark Matesic had a heart for giving back to the community from a young age. He would often ask to bake cookies and deliver them to local fire and police departments as a gesture of gratitude. After Mark's passing, his family and friends carried on this tradition, organizing an annual cookie drive in his honor. The first year, they donated cookies to over 38 stations, and by the following year, they had tripled that number, delivering treats to 97 fire and police stations. This growing tradition is a meaningful way to continue Mark’s legacy of kindness and appreciation for first responders in the community.
This year the cookie drive will take place on December 15th, 2024.
Mental Health Meetings
Starting in September 2024, the Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation will host mental health meetings for first responders to address critical topics such as trauma, mental health, and available resources. These meetings will be held at local fire departments, offering a safe and supportive environment for firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and other responders to discuss the challenges they face on the job. Initially, the foundation will meet once a month at four different departments, with plans to expand to twice a month as participation grows. This initiative aims to foster open conversations, raise awareness, and provide much-needed mental health support for those serving on the front lines.
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Even Our Strongest Heroes Need Help – Call 988
As a first responder, you face unimaginable challenges every day, but even the strongest among us can struggle with mental health. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that support is always available. Call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for free, confidential help. You don't have to carry the weight alone—reach out and take the first step toward healing.
A Tribute to Our Heroes: Answer the Call by Shana Jackman
Answer the Call’ is a powerful anthem dedicated to the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to serve their communities. We’ve chosen this song as a tribute to our first responders, a reminder that even in their darkest moments, they are not alone. Take a moment to listen and honor their courage.
Mental Health Services for Volunteer Fire Stations: Enhancing Support and Resilience
If you would like us to visit your station to discuss mental health and trauma, please contact Jennifer at 412-513-6422 or via email. We look forward to supporting your team.
September 9, 2024
Unity Fire Department Plum:
In September 2024, we will begin our outreach with Unity Fire Department Plum, focusing on addressing trauma and mental health challenges unique to firefighters. The meeting will provide valuable insights into available resources and offer a supportive space for discussing mental well-being within the department.
October 17, 2024- 7:00pm
Export Fire Department:
In October 2024, we met with the Export Fire Department to explore issues related to trauma and mental health. The session aimed to raise awareness about mental health resources and foster an open dialogue among firefighters, providing tools and support to help manage the stresses of their demanding roles.
November 7, 2024- 7:00pm
Pitcarian Fire Department:
In November 2024, we engaged with the Pitcarian Fire Department to address the mental health challenges faced by firefighters. The meeting focused on providing practical resources and creating a supportive environment for discussing trauma, offering valuable strategies and support tailored to their needs.
February 17, 2025- 7:00pm
Penn Hills Fire Department 227:
In February 2025, we will visit Penn Hills Fire Department 227 to discuss mental health and trauma. This session aims to provide firefighters with essential resources, foster open communication about mental well-being, and offer strategies to support their resilience and overall mental health.
Honoring Mark’s Legacy : The Story Behind Our Foundation
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation (MMMF) aims to
provide educational opportunities and assist in
opportunities for emergency responders to receive
specialized mental health services. Emergency Responders
include firefighters, police officers, EMT’s, dispatchers, and
other emergency personal that serve the Eastern Suburban
communities of the Greater Pittsburgh Region. Mark E.
Matesic was a junior firefighter who struggled with mental
health, and Mark lost his life to suicide on March 24, 2022.