Matt doesn't look much older than the kids he works with, but his spiritual gifts of teaching, shepherding and leadership really pay off. He loves working with youth, knowing that the decisions they make now will affect their entire lives. There isn't much in life he likes better than seeing a kid take a step toward God.

Matt was born and raised in Carlisle, PA. Although they don't live close by, family is very important to him. He says he can talk to his mom about anything. He and his oldest brother, Jason, fought throughout childhood but now they're best friends. He has a younger brother, Josh, who is “just a cool kid” – plus a really good golfer, and a teenage sister, Alicia, who just graduated from high school, is a writer, and makes him proud.

In April 2006, Matt married his best friend, Angela, and they are in the process of living happily ever after. They both enjoy the outdoors, playing sports, and cooking - even making up recipes as they go.

From the age of 15 to 19, Matt worked at a camp at the beach in New Jersey. That's where he learned the heart of serving and working with people – and especially responsibility. He has also worked in restaurants, which taught him how to deal with pressure. After graduating from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Religion, he decided to stay in Lynchburg and work with the youth at Blue Ridge. We're so glad he did!

One of Matt's biggest strengths is that he's a people person. He's good at conversing with people and making them feel comfortable. He's a very laid-back, easy-to-get-along-with kind of guy. Everyone has pet peeves, though, and his are people who are arrogant and whiners.

Matt's favorite Bible verses are John 10:10 and Micah 1:8 (go ahead, look them up). And Matt says his favorite Bible character is Jonathan because “after reading Seizing your Divine Moment, the guy just kicks tail…I want to be like that!!”

mcarroll@blue-ridge.org
434.525.7481 ext 120