Levi J. DeMatteis Foundation Fund
A donor-advised fund established by the family of sixteen-year-old Levi J. DeMatteis, who passed away in September 2026 after a courageous battle against cancer, dedicated to helping those in the community and providing scholarships to local youth.
Overview
The Levi J. DeMatteis Foundation Fund was established to honor the life and legacy of Levi, a beloved son, brother, and friend who passed away in September 2026 following a courageous battle with cancer.
The mission of the foundation is based on Levi's initials:
- Lasting Hope
- Joining Hands
- Delivering Help
Levi was a junior at Rome Free Academy (RFA), where he was known as a bright student, gifted athlete, and valued friend. He excelled academically and was admired by his teachers and peers, demonstrating a strong commitment to his education. A dedicated athlete, Levi played varsity soccer and tennis for RFA. Outside of school, Levi enjoyed skiing and pickleball. He worked at Kennedy Arena in Rome as an ice-skating attendant and picked up jobs cutting lawns and detailing cars. Above all, Levi's strong faith in Jesus was at the center of his life. He carried it with a strength and conviction that touched those around him. His kindness, humor, and love for others were a few of the many qualities that reflected who he was as a young man.
The fund aims to expend access to resources and opportunities for others in the community. Initial areas of focus will include an educational scholarship for a graduating senior from RFA, awards for Rome City School District graduating 6th graders, and camp scholarships for children attending Camp Shiloh at Delta Lake - a place that Levi looked forward to attending every summer. His family is planning on expanding support for families going through childhood cancer in the future.
To make a gift by check, please make checks payable to the Levi J. DeMatteis Foundation Fund, mailed to the Community Foundation, 2608 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13502.
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The Levi J. DeMatteis Foundation Fund has been established in honor of Levi, who passed away in September 2026 at age sixteen following a courageous battle against malignant melanoma. The mission of the foundation is based on Levi’s initials: Lasting Hope, Joining Hands, and Delivering Help. The fund will be used to honor Levi’s legacy and help those in the community.
