“I feel so honored I had the chance to visit Mattie’s Park.” –David Godoy

On a cold winter day, Main Street Connect staff and member David Godoy chose to travel up the road and spend time in the Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park.

Godoy, who works at the front desk at the Main Street Connect Apartments, was born with a disability and learned about Mattie through the Mama Peace Chat sessions offered at MSC. “Thank you to my friend, Jeni Stepanek, Mattie’s mom and Mama Peace, for teaching us about Mattie, and his messages of peace and purpose,” Godoy said. He said he especially enjoyed the “community mosaic” activities, and the “You Matter” mosaic created by #MamaPeaceChat participants during the Fall 2022 sessions.

He is also a Special Olympian, a musician, and a talented saxophone player–who was invited to play the National Anthem at the 2023 and 2024 “Peace Day” events that honor Mattie’s birthday each July with a celebration in Mattie’s Park.

“I am excited to be invited to share my musical Heartsong with others at this important gathering. I wanted to learn more about Mattie’s legacy by visiting the park. It is an amazing place. And I am so blessed to know Mattie through Jeni. Our friendship will forever be strong!”

NOTE: Save the Dates for the upcoming Peace Day Celebrations–July 15, 2023 and July 13, 2024–both will be Saturday mornings filled with activities and entertainment and conversations and fun… as we #PartyWithAPurpose4Peace!