One Random Act Can Change Someone’s World
Matthew “Matty” Gallagher
To people who knew him, Matthew was known for his gentle spirit, his random acts of kindness, and willingness to do anything for friends and strangers alike. These attributes were second nature. He was also known for his practical jokes, good natured sarcasm and quick-wit that often got him in and out of trouble in the blink of an eye. Friends remember him quietly offering words of support and encouragement, as well as randomly reaching out to them when they needed it the most. Strangers knew him as the guy that bought them bagels, gave them clothes out of his own closet, and encouraged them to use his phone to reach out to their family members.
Matty, as he was known, was a talented chef who at the age of 28 could no longer put off his calling to join the US Army. Assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, 4th Battalion, Parachute Infantry Regiment, Matthew and his brothers-in-arms were dispatched to Afghanistan where they were in combat almost daily. Even through war, Matty’s giving spirit was evident. Whether he was making hats made from old newspapers for the Afghan children he encountered on patrol, or using his chef’s skills to make MRE’s palatable for his brothers, his nature showed through even in the worst of situations.
Absolutely no angel, his high school principal once told his father, “if you are trying to raise a good student, you have failed. But, if you are trying to raise a good person, you have succeeded beyond measure.”
About Us
The Random Acts Foundation was created to honor a life that continues to inspire kindness, connection, and compassion. In memory of Matthew “Matty” Gallagher, we are committed to keeping his spirit alive in a simple yet powerful way, through everyday acts of kindness.
Our ultimate goal is to inspire everyday people to think about and follow through on doing some form of random act of kindness on a daily basis. Just like Matty, we believe that even the smallest gesture can create a ripple effect. A helping hand, a kind word, or a random thoughtful act can change someone’s day, and sometimes even their life.
Our Mission
Our mission is to recognize, reward, and encourage simple random acts of kindness. Matty knew that even the simplest act of kindness could have a huge impact on both the receiver of the act of kindness and equally important, the doer of the act. Our focus is to continue the legacy of our son, brother and friend.
Why the Hummingbird?
The hummingbird is the symbol of the Random Acts Foundation because it represents joy, resilience, hope, and the power of small actions. Though tiny in size, hummingbirds accomplish extraordinary things, reminding us that even the smallest gesture can make a meaningful difference.
Just as a hummingbird brings beauty wherever it goes, acts of kindness have the power to brighten someone's day, inspire hope, and create a ripple effect that extends far beyond a single moment. The hummingbird reminds us that kindness doesn't have to be grand to be impactful—it simply has to be shared.
Coin Recipient Stories
Tom
Recognizing the need to support individuals facing food insecurity, especially on Sundays when many resources are limited, Tom rallied family and friends to prepare and distribute sandwiches in his city's downtown area. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a broader outreach effort, providing not only meals but also socks, clothing, and essential personal hygiene items to those in need.
Anonymous
This unknown high school student opened and held the door for a woman and her child in a stroller. The mom was heard thanking this young man and told her son, “I hope you grow up to be like this young man”.
Patricia
Patricia has turned her love of knitting into a lifelong way of giving back to others. Over the years, she has lovingly crafted caps for newborn babies, blankets for seniors, and handmade items for her church’s outreach programs serving immigrants, children, and individuals experiencing homelessness. At 97 years old, Patricia still remains active and passionate about her craft, often enjoying trips to the store to select colorful yarn for her next project.
Joanna
In addition to coordinating weekly salsa dance events in her neighborhood park, Joanna noticed that the dozens of wooden chairs provided by the city had fallen into disrepair from winter weather and everyday use. Armed with her trusty toolkit, she repaired every broken chair, restoring them for the community to enjoy. Thanks to Joanna’s thoughtful act of kindness, countless people can now spend their summer days relaxing comfortably in the park.
SPREAD KINDNESS
SPREAD KINDNESS
We want to hear your story!
Coins Order Form
To help us share coins with as many individuals and communities as possible, requests are currently limited to three coins per person/order. Additional coin requests may be placed in the future as you continue spreading kindness and recognizing acts of compassion.
