Giving Back: Jason and Kari Matthews

After Jason Matthews stepped out of his comfort zone in corporate America to pursue working from home on his own terms, he and his wife, Kari, decided to use the opportunity to get more involved in their local community. This decision was motivated by their faith as well as the passing of Jason’s mother and Kari’s father. They both realized that life is short and they wanted to use their time more purposefully for good.

Kari opened Clean Slate Goods in Kennett Square to support women artisans through job creation. “It’s a step beyond charity,” she says. A maker herself, Kari loves connecting people with handmade goods that are beautiful and ethically made. Providing a market for these products helps transform lives and communities.

When Jason heard Myriam Ruager, Executive Director of Chester County Women’s Services, speak at their church, he knew he wanted to help. CCWS provides a refuge and a range of free medical and educational services and holistic care to all women facing unplanned pregnancies at their newly renovated West Chester facility, as well as in their Kennett Square and Coatesville locations. After becoming a board member, Jason discovered that his mom had volunteered at CCWS as a client advocate more than 30 years ago. “If you’re facing a crisis pregnancy, there’s literally no better place to go,” he says. “It’s truly a caring and supportive community.” There are multiple ways to support CCWS, which is 90% volunteer driven—from donating diapers to volunteering as an advocate, teacher, administrator, or nurse. ccwsmedicalinfo.org

In addition to volunteering in various capacities, Jason is enjoying being a “soccer dad” for their three sons. He also delivers for Meals on Wheels, which he says takes only about an hour and brings joy to housebound people. “Even if you don’t have a lot of time,” he says, “it’s possible to make a big impact.”