Matthias Academy, a nonprofit serving southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, was founded to address a major gap in services for adults with special needs after they age out of the school system.
At Wispact Foundation, we believe that access—to resources, communication, and community—is essential for people with disabilities to live meaningful, connected lives. That’s why partnerships with organizations like Matthias Academy are so impactful.
Recently, we spoke with Joy Wojtak, Director of Committees and Outreach Operations at Matthias Academy, to learn how Wispact Foundation funding is helping expand opportunity for the adults they serve.
Filling a Critical Gap
Matthias Academy, a nonprofit serving southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, was founded to address a major gap in services for adults with special needs after they age out of the school system. As Wojtak explains, once individuals leave public education, options become limited—especially for those who cannot work independently.
Matthias steps in to provide both day programming and residential living, supporting adults with a wide range of needs—from autism to complex medical and behavioral conditions. Since opening in 2020 with just 14 participants, the organization has grown rapidly to serve over 150 individuals, with a waitlist just as large.
That growth highlights both success—and urgent need.
Technology That Gives People a Voice
With support from Wispact Foundation, Matthias Academy is expanding its campus and investing in adaptive technology that transforms how participants communicate and learn. For many individuals who are nonverbal, tools like iPads and communication software are life-changing. These technologies allow users to express choices, thoughts, and even full conversations—sometimes for the first time.
Wojtak shared how this impacts daily life: Individuals who can’t speak can use technology to communicate what they’re thinking and feeling—not just with staff, but with peers. It opens the door to real connection. This is more than convenience—it’s dignity, independence, and inclusion in action.
Scaling Impact to Meet Demand
The Wispact Foundation grant is helping equip new classrooms in an 8,000-square-foot expansion, allowing Matthias to serve an additional 40–50 individuals. Without this support, Matthias would still need to purchase the technology—but at a cost. Funds would be diverted from expansion efforts, slowing their ability to reduce the waitlist and reach more families. In other words, Wispact’s investment doesn’t just fund equipment—it accelerates access.
A Shared Mission
Beyond funding, what stands out most is the alignment between Wispact Foundation and Matthias Academy.
Both organizations are committed to:
- Expanding access and choice
- Supporting individuals with disabilities across the lifespan
- Building more inclusive communities
As highlighted in Wispact Foundation’s strategic direction, advancing equity, innovation, and awareness are core priorities . Partnerships like this bring those priorities to life in tangible ways.
How You Can Help
Matthias Academy invites the community to be part of their mission:
- Follow their journey on social media (Matthias Academy on Facebook) · Visit their website (mathiascommunity.org)
- Volunteer, donate, or spread awareness
Every action helps close the gap for adults with disabilities who deserve lifelong opportunities to learn, connect, and thrive.
At Wispact Foundation, we’re proud to support organizations that turn possibility into reality—one voice, one classroom, and one life at a time.