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ABOUT

      At U Matter 365 Inc. we believe every person deserves to

feel seen, valued, and empowered - every single day of the

year.  Founded on the principle that self- worth, confidence,

and community connection are essential to a thriving life.

     Whether we're engaging with students in schools, supporting families, creating mentoring programs where none exist or speaking with groups to inspire them to make a difference one child at a time, U Matter 365 stands as a daily reminder:  you are important, you matter, and your presence makes a difference - 365 days a year.

OUR STORY

     U Matter 365 Inc. was founded in May of 2024 as a 501(c)3 / nonprofit organization: to inspire and educate adults into becoming mentors in the public school system. It began with a simple yet powerful question - what would happen if every young person had someone in their corner reminding them that they matter?

     The idea quickly grew from a thought and a dream into action. Recognizing the growing need for positive role models in schools and communities, U Matter 365 began building bridges between generations - encouraging adults to step into mentorship roles that change lives.

     Today we are more than a message - we are a call to action. The need for mentors is greater than ever before.  We live in a nation where approximately 24.7 million children live in fatherless homes.  Children do not choose the lives they are born into and the stresses and challenges that children have to navigate through today come at much earlier ages. U Matter 365 is tasked with a mission to inspire adults to become mentors that will help students navigate life's challenges, cultivate belonging, build confidence, and bring lasting change.

 


 

​A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER

     "This organization was born from a place of compassion and urgency.  As a Children's Pastor for 25 plus years, I've seen firsthand how a single word of encouragement, a listening ear, or a creative outlet can change a life.  

     From the villages of Cuba to the Amazon jungle, from the slums of the Bahamas to the streets of Toronto, a caring heart can positively impact a child's life that will set them on a course for success. At U Matter 365, we're here to remind everyone - especially the next generation - that no matter the season or struggle, they are never alone, and that they always matter."

Dean Giancola

Founder and Executive Director - U Matter 365 Inc.

 

OUR MISSION

  • To inspire and educate adults into becoming compassionate, committed mentors in the public school system.

  • To empower youth through consistent, caring relationships and creative programs.

  • To make a difference in a child's life through mentoring. 

 

OUR VISION

A world where every young person has a trusted mentor that helps them see in themselves what they can't.  A country where every child has someone in their life that brings hope into their lives.  A community where everyone can see the value and possibilities in every child.  Schools where every student thrives no matter their past or current condition. One child, one mentor and 30 minutes can change the world.                                                  

Our Board

PRESIDENT: Dr. Peter Lundberg             Senior Pastor Community UMC Oldsmar, Fl

VICE PRESIDENT: Rev. Herbert Lange

TREASURER: Sandra Brock

SECRETARY: Mella Giannone

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Pastor Dean Giancola

SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR: Pastor Chris Kelbaugh    Senior Pastor First UMC Tarpon Springs, Fl

10,080 - 30 = 10,050

In The News!
U Matter 365 recognition 2024-2025
Dean Giancola, our Executive Director was nominated for the Take Stock in Children Mentor for 2024 / 2025 and he received the award for Lunch Pal Mentor for Middle Schools in Pinellas County for 2024/2025.  He was also featured in a FOX 13 news report about mentoring. 
Click here for video.

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