.webp)
Annual Cookie Drive
Mark Matesic had a heart for giving back, often baking cookies for local fire and police departments to show gratitude. After his passing, his family continued this tradition with an annual cookie drive. In its second year, they delivered treats to 97 stations, growing Mark’s legacy of kindness. This year’s cookie drive will be held on December 15, 2024.
2024 Car Show
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation’s annual car show brings the community together to support mental health awareness for first responders. Featuring a variety of classic and custom cars, this event helps raise funds for vital programs. Stay tuned for more details on this year’s car show!
Cornhole Tournament
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation’s station vs. station cornhole tournament is a fun way for emergency responders to compete and connect. This year’s tournament will take place on February 2nd, 2025, at 11 AM at Penn Hills VFD 227. Join us for some friendly competition while supporting a great cause!
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation is dedicated to supporting mental health resources for first responders and suicide prevention. Our upcoming events offer a chance to come together, raise awareness, and make a difference in the lives of those who serve our communities. From our annual cookie drive to our car show and cornhole tournament, each event plays a vital role in funding essential programs and spreading hope. We invite you to join us in these efforts as we continue to honor Mark’s legacy and promote mental health awareness.
Upcoming Events
First Responder Mental Health Support Meetings
Even our strongest community members need support. These meetings are dedicated to helping first responders navigate the unique mental health challenges they face every day. Open to all first responders, these sessions provide a safe space to share experiences, access mental health resources, and receive guidance from professionals.
If you're a first responder seeking support or know someone who is, click below to learn more and join us at the next meeting.
2022-2023 JROTC Scholarship Recipient:
Aubri Dapra
2024 JROTC Recipient:
NAME
2024 Jr. Fire fighter Recipient: Sarah Abate
Annual Scholarships Honoring Mark’s Legacy
The Mark Matesic Memorial Foundation proudly awards two annual scholarships to graduating seniors at Plum High School. These scholarships reflect Mark’s lifelong dedication to service and community involvement. The first, a $1,000 scholarship, is awarded to a JROTC cadet who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service. The second honors a graduating senior who has served as a junior firefighter with one of Plum’s four fire stations. Both scholarships support higher education and celebrate Mark’s enduring legacy of selflessness, leadership, and dedication to helping others.