One of Stevens Point’s Own Honored as 2014 Difference-Maker for Easter Seals Wisconsin

STEVENS POINT, Wis. - Oct. 22, 2014 - PRLog -- MADISON, WI--- The 2014 Easter Seals Wisconsin “Difference-Makers” were honored Tuesday evening at a Recognition Dinner in Madison. These individuals, groups and businesses have inspired others and made outstanding contributions to the disability community statewide and to Easter Seals Wisconsin throughout the years. This year’s recipient for Recognition of Personal Growth and Development is Matt Kluender of Stevens Point.

Recognition of Personal Growth & Development is an honor given to an individual who looks beyond their disability to see potential and meets challenges head on. Matt seems to only see possibilities, working hard to look past obstacles; he does what he can to give back and to encourage and empower others.

Easter Seals Wisconsin Camps, located in Wisconsin Dells, is ever grateful to Matt, his family and friends for the time and money they have dedicated to helping other children and adults look beyond their disabilities and reach their goals.

Matt set a goal for himself early on in his life to hike across America in his wheelchair. After months of preparation, Matt and his uncle Don set out in June of 2012 to Long Beach, California. After 800 miles, in Cameron, Missouri, his equipment trailer, holding everything he needed for this trip, was struck by a car and destroyed.

Even with his journey coming to an abrupt end, Matt is not discouraged, and plans on setting out for California once again in the next year. In the meantime, he has spent his time inspiring others to dream big.

About Easter Seals Wisconsin:  For more than 85 years, Easter Seals Wisconsin (www.EasterSealsWisconsin.com) has provided services that help children and adults with disabilities gain greater independence. Easter Seals primary services – vocational rehabilitation, respite services, camping and recreation, information and referral, and public education – benefit close to 10,000 individuals with disabilities and their families each year in Wisconsin.