OUR MISSION
The Matthew D. Barsamian Foundation exists to further Matthew Barsamian’s legacy through charitable endeavors in sports and youth programs.
Throughout his life, Matt was all about the TEAM. Whether it was on an actual field or not, Matt would do whatever it took to support his teammates in sports and in life. He lived by the mantra “NEXT PLAY” and was known to always be moving forward, looking for new ways to better himself and overcome obstacles with an unparalleled enthusiasm for what was next.
The ‘NEXT PLAY’ mentality shines through within the mission of MDB Foundation in a variety of ways. Through carefully selected organizations and special projects, we will aim at improving the lives of underprivileged and underserved Detroit and New York youth through sports, mentorship, and recreational infrastructure. Through these efforts, we hope to make lasting positive changes within the regions of which Matt cared about so deeply.
While he was taken too soon, there is no doubt Matt’s teammates and fans will carry on his legacy in meaningful and impactful ways for years to come.
As our guy would say, “it’s time to go to work.”
NEXT PLAY.
OUR STORY
The Matthew D. Barsamian Foundation was founded by the Barsamian and Robinson families after the unexpected passing of Matthew Barsamian in 2019.
Born in Rochester Hills, Michigan, Matt, more commonly known as “Barso,” grew up as an excellent student with a passion for sports. His athletic career culminated at Columbia University, where Matt was an All-Ivy selection and captain of the Columbia Lions football team, proudly wearing #76. Upon graduation in 2007, Matt took his talents off the field to Citigroup, eventually becoming a Director in the Debt Capital Markets Group, where he was extremely well respected by his colleagues and peers.
Matt had an infectious personality and an incredible positive mentality. He was a professional groomsman for those that were closest to him and an instant friend to everyone else, especially Packer fans, anyone that played golf, and fellow Columbia alumni. His family and friends were his number one priority and he was fiercely loyal and incredibly devoted to the important people that made up his life’s team.
While Detroit captured his roots, New York City was his home. Matt was exceptionally generous and we know he would want donations in his name to go to causes that were near and dear to his heart. Our hope for The Matthew D. Barsamian Foundation is to focus our efforts on charitable endeavors in both of his beloved cities, allowing Matt’s extraordinary spirit to live on through others in the places he cared about the most.
