A Personal Message from Matt Sturiale

Dear Friends,

I hope this message finds you well and you’ve had an enjoyable summer.

In 1978, I began a social work internship at a group home for people with developmental disabilities that changed the course of my life. I was committed to being part of a social justice movement that would eventually lead to the privilege of serving as President and CEO of Birch Family Services. After much reflection, I have made the decision to step down from that role at the end of 2026.

This decision was not an easy one. I am as passionate about the work today as when I first became engaged in it. For nearly five decades, I have had the privilege of working alongside individuals with autism and developmental disabilities, their families, dedicated colleagues, volunteers, public and private partners, and generous supporters who believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live a full, meaningful, and inclusive life. Serving as Birch’s President and CEO for the last decade has been one of the greatest honors of my career.

When I joined Birch, I was inspired by the strength of the organization’s mission and the extraordinary people who brought it to life every day. Together, we have expanded educational opportunities, increased our residential and community-based services, expanded and strengthened the New Frontier employment program, and created new affordable housing opportunities for individuals who want greater independence. Through moments of tremendous growth and extraordinary challenges over the last decade, your partnership has helped make that progress possible.

To everyone who has invested in Birch’s mission, whether through your philanthropy, advocacy, or volunteerism, thank you. Your generosity has changed lives. Every milestone we’ve celebrated has been made possible because of a community that believes in creating opportunities, advancing inclusion, and empowering people with autism and developmental disabilities to thrive.

I am excited and have complete confidence in Birch’s future. Our Board of Directors has been thoughtfully preparing for this transition over the last several months. There is an active search for a new CEO, and I will be working with them to ensure a smooth transition for my successor. I know the organization is well positioned to build upon the strong foundation built over the last 50 years, and I have every confidence that the best days of Birch Family Services are still ahead.

Over the next few months, I look forward to seeing many of you, thanking you personally, and celebrating all that we have accomplished together. More than anything, I hope you’ll continue to stand with Birch through the transition and the exciting future that lies ahead. The social revolution that first inspired me nearly fifty years ago remains as important today as ever. We must continue to ensure that people with developmental disabilities have access to all things that enable them to reach their fullest potential at school, home, work and as part of their communities. As an eternal optimist, I believe that, together, we will continue shaping a more inclusive world for generations to come.

Thank you for your support, trust, and unwavering commitment to Birch Family Services. It has truly been the privilege of a lifetime to serve this remarkable community.

With sincere gratitude,

Matt Sturiale, LCSW
President & CEO