Matthew Whisman

Matthew Whisman is addressing the need for social justice for marginalized groups in the state of Kentucky, including underprivileged people living in the Appalachia region and the homeless. His compassion for these groups even extends to an area of service most people have never considered: proper burial services for those less fortunate.

Matthew leads the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society in Berry, KY, providing funeral services for the homeless and other groups that would not otherwise be able to afford funerals, which cost an average of $20,000 per person.

Named after the Gospel figure who donated his own prepared tomb for the burial of Jesus after Jesus’ crucifixion, the St. Joseph of Arimathea Society has helped provide headstones for about eight funerals per year under Matthew’s leadership. Matthew is in charge of arranging for gravestones, clothes donations for dress clothes, and internment gowns.

Matthew’s good work has also helped him earn the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, recognizing volunteers who give hundreds of hours in service to their communities.

Who are the people in your community that quietly make a difference for others in need? Nominate an exceptional volunteer for the Daily Point of Light Award to bring more attention and resources to their cause. Go to http://www.pointsoflight.org/programs/recognition/dpol/nomination.