What Is The Mattie & Me Project?

It's Not Just A Job, It Sure Is An Adventure! 😊

The Mattie & Me project is about a very special young man named Matthew Richard Mistkowski—but we call him Mattie. 

Born with Down syndrome on July 27, 2005, Mattie has never been defined by it. In fact, his Grandma Rose set the tone for his journey from the moment she first held him. She looked at me and said, "Richard… there is NOTHING wrong with that kid!"

And that was that!

Mattie is a young man who brings joy, laughter, and genuine connection to almost everyone he meets. He lives in the present moment better than anyone I know—which has certainly taught me one very important life skill: patience. 😊

The Mattie & Me Transition Program (2025-2026)

Now, at 20, Mattie is stepping into the next exciting chapter of his life. Like most young adults, he doesn’t yet know exactly what he wants to do, but that’s where I come in. My job—and my greatest role—is to support, guide, and advocate for him as he explores his passions and builds the skills needed for his future.

So we are creating a Work/Life Transition Program! As he calls it, "Dads transition program"

Mattie has outstanding people skills, which will be invaluable as we focus on areas such as:

• Business skills
• Sales & Marketing
• Hospitality & Concierge Services
• DJ & Entertainment
• Culinary Arts
• Equestrian & Outdoor Programs

Since we love Florida, and his sister Lauren lives in Jacksonville, we plan to spend a lot of time there—especially in the colder months. We Will BE Snowbirds!

There are also some really great College Certificate programs for young adults like Mattie. During our Transition Program we are hoping to visit some of these programs. Naturally, programs with Culinary and Hospitality are at the top of his list!

Ways You Can Help (or Ways We Can Help You!)

We’re looking to connect with businesses, organizations, and people who share our vision of inclusion, learning, and growth. If you’d like to support Mattie’s journey, or if we can help YOU in any way, here are a few ideas:

• If you have a program Mattie can participate in to learn life or vocational skills, we'd love to hear about it!
• If you own a business or organization, let’s meet! Mattie leads all meetings, and we’d love to help with Promotional Products (Swag) or Logoed Apparel.
• If you know of respite or travel programs, we’d love suggestions!
• Need a DJ for an event? Mattie & Me is ready! 🎶
• Need a host for an event? Mattie & Me would love to be part of it! 
• Know influential people who might want to talk to Mattie about his journey? Connect us!
• Know of fun events, activities, or programs in Florida or beyond? Let us know!
• Want us to come by and visit when we’re in the area? Just say the word!

The Bottom Line

There is no script for this journey—I’m leaving it in God’s hands to guide us because, frankly, I couldn't do this alone. Every day brings new adventure, new connections, and new opportunities to learn.

Somewhere along the way, I signed up for all of this. It's my job, but more importantly... we all are here on earth with a purpose in life. My purpose is to help my son Be All He Can Be! He has the potential. I'm just trying to help him reach it. 

It's not easy & it sure isn’t boring! 

My keys to life? Patience, Persistence, and ALWAYS having a Plan B! 😉
 

Welcome to Mattie & Me!

P.S. If you really want to understand our relationship, we are a mix of The Odd Couple and, for those old enough to remember, The Courtship of Eddie’s Father!