Rockville Woman Continues To Share Late Son's Message Of Love

ROCKVILLE, MD — Without community leaders, Rockville Patch wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Alba L. Romero, a Rockville Patch reader who nominated Mattie Stepanek Foundation.

How do you know this community leader?

I first heard of Mattie through his Oprah Show interview. I then decided to introduce him to my students as a source of inspiration. For the past 10 years we created an annual classbook as a tribute to him. I contacted his equally inspiring mom, Dr. Jeni Stepanek, by email to let her know of the project. She very kindly offered to do a virtual publishing celebration and met with my students every single year!

What does this community leader do?

The foundation exists to keep Mattie's legacy alive. He was a Peacemaker, philospher, and a poet. Oprah called him a "Love Boy". Communities and students are inspired to follow in his footsteps by spreading kindness, love, and peace in the world.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Mattie was/is a very special teen. He teaches many Life Lessons that are really timeless. My students learn to be optimists, to have perseverance, they develop a love for writing and art, and to be peacemakers. I know for sure that our world is a better place because he dared to dream big and he is a source of inspiration.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

He truly was a precious "Love Boy"!

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Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.