The Maya Gold Foundation, Inc.

I found this training to be very needed in my professional career and as a mom. As an educator, anything I can do to help my students in terms of mental health is worth the time. The course was very informative and I enjoyed the different modalities. I found the mix of people present very beneficial.

I took the YMHFA training. I really enjoyed how this training opened my thinking on how to assess situations. Some situations may just need simple conversation while others may require more professional help. Learning how to assess difference scenarios was really helpful and makes me feel more confident that I can help an individual in the future.

I appreciate the work they do for our community. My teen and her friends have benefited greatly from the Maya Gold Foundation.

I've had the absolute honor of being a witness to the work that the Maya Gold Foundation does on a daily basis to improve and preserve the lives of teenagers. The work they do, being able to take loss and turn it into something truly good, has inspired me and countless others to care for our youth and ensure they don't feel alone and have adequate access to mental health care.

If every county had a Maya Gold Foundation chapter, we'd be signficantly closer to ending the stigmatization of mental health care while ensuring peer support and increasing opportunities for youth. If you have an opportunity to work with them, I highly encourage you do so.

The Maya Gold Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of teens in its community. Recently, the foundation has been focusing on providing Teen Mental Health First Aid to schools throughout our region, including a recent stint at New Paltz High School. Students report feeling empowered to support their peers during times of crisis. The next goal is to increase donor and grant participation to continue to bolster this work. I am proud to be a part of this.

I have supported the Maya Gold Foundation since 2023 as a volunteer, board member, and committee lead. It is an honor to be part of an organization that does such meaningful work in the community, advocating for mental health awareness. Teen mental health has always been a passion of mine, and I find great joy in connecting with youth through the foundation on this topic.

It is a privilege to witness young people pursuing their dreams of making a difference, and equally inspiring to see the compassion and encouragement offered by the adults in the foundation as these teens explore how they wish to show up in the world.

The Maya Gold Foundation provides an important service to Hudson Valley youth through their Teen Mental Health First Aid training program which empowers teens with the know-how to be of service and support to their peers experiencing mental health challenges. This is a truly a program that needs to be in every high school in the state!

The Maya Gold Foundation is driven by an amazing group of active community members who have a passion for helping others. The founders, board members, youth action team officers, and volunteers all work towards a shared mission to better their community. I have had the pleasure of working directly with various members and have seen firsthand the direct effect of their pursuits, whether that's working directly with organizations related to public health, hosting mental health first aid training for anyone who needs/wants the service, or creating a safe space for meaningful dialogue around topics related to mental health.

I had learned about the Maya Gold Foundation earlier this year, and immediately knew I wanted to be a part of it. I joined as a member a couple months ago, and it has been such a meaningful experience. The mission of the foundation stood out to me as a teen (and now adult) who struggled (and still struggles) with mental health challenges. I wish that I had something like this in my community when I was a teenager struggling to get through high school and needing resources that would make me feel that I mattered and could make a difference in the world one day. I admire how the foundation incorporates teenagers into the decisions and processes because it allows them to provide support for teens with the input of personal experience from teens themselves. This foundation is an excellent resource and strives to change lives of teens and adults working with youth. All of the members are so incredibly passionate about what they do for this foundation and the environment could not be any more supportive.

The Maya Gold Foundation does incredible work in the field of empowering today's youth and cares for their holistic view of life. I have been honored to work with them over the past 7 years and cannot say enough wonderful things about their approach and success in working with today's youth.

I am proud to be part of the Maya Gold Foundation I am new to the team and I look forward to growing and helping and making a difference.

I have been apart of the Maya Gold Foundation for a little bit over a year. My time with the foundation has been very meaningful to me. As a young girl I was lucky enough to grow up with Maya in my life. When she passed I realized it was important to help teens like her struggling with mental health. That is the reason I decided to become a part of the foundation. One of my favorite aspects about the foundation is that it is partly run by teens, which gives them a sense of voice and power! I am grateful to that I joined the organization and am looking forward continue working with other teens!

The Maya Gold Foundation is an incredible non-profit. I've been a consultant with the Maya Gold Foundation for the past year and I have seen just how impactful and life-changing their offerings to teens are. The Foundation is run by empathetic and caring individuals who support teens with such kindness and respect.

I have been volunteering with the Maya Gold Foundation in a variety of ways for the past 6 years. This organization truly cares about creating meaningful programming to support their mission of allowing teens to access their inner wisdom and realize their dreams. I worked with the foundation as a teen and again now as an adult and I am so grateful for how they always amplify teen voices and put them at the center of all their planning. I always leave meetings and events feeling empowered and inspired to continue to make an impact in the community.

The Maya Gold Foundation is such an amazing organization that’s helped the youth in our community so much. It is such a welcoming group, and as a volunteer I get to experience firsthand all of the wonderful impacts that have been made by the foundation.

I had just joined this program but I heard many great things that the Maya Gold Foundation does. I am honored being a part of the Youth Action Team and am excited to do more and help the community and teens.

My husband COVID 19 death ho thi mare do bhchce hai 7 son ladki 13 ki mare family ab koi nahi hai. Sab ki death COVID 19 main hi gayi hai. Hum ak hi Ghar mein 3 widow 9 bhchce yateem hai please sir help me

I am the President of the Youth Action Team here on the Maya Gold Foundation and I can honestly say that I love this organization. Joining the YAT opened my eyes to so many different realities of the world, helping me grow and mature for the better. Also, being a part of this foundation has made me feel much more comfortable speaking for myself and sharing my ideas as everything is valued. It is inspiring working with the Board members and hosting events where we can see the actual positive human impact that we are giving. The Maya Gold Foundation is an amazing non-profit that truly makes a beautiful contribution to our community and the communities in Nepal.

Overall so much was covered in such a short time and i feel more secure helping my friends and peers through tough situations. A lot of people really need to hear what was said because of stigma.

We are so thankful for your continuing support and of this program, and for understanding the value of this offering!

We're so appreciative of the funding you've contributed to this program and are already looking ahead to summer 2022, when we plan to offer a refined version of this program once again.

Our goal with this program was to create a safe place for youth to consider what activism is and how they could use writing to appeal to others about their interests to improve the world. Participants this summer wrote about LGBTQIA+ rights, gender identity, nuclear proliferation, clean water, and voters’ rights. We benefited by “meeting” a variety of activists, mostly via Zoom. In some cases, this involved watching videos of teens and studying models of what past students studied -- Islamophobia in the US, community centers, body image, etc. The week culminated with a virtual “Teach In” during which the students shared their writing and ideas with parent visitors. During this session, we also described some highlights from the week and a website that housed our collective work. Thank you for your support.

We donated 250 books to 6 places (hospitals, children centers, and schools), and we are donating 30 more books to Vassar. Thank you so much for this opportunity! We appreciate the support.

We greatly appreciate the support of Maya Gold Foundation which has allowed us to increase scholarship offerings to our students, thus supporting accessibility in our poverty stricken community.

I attended the Tim Mousseau event in December. Presenter was knowledgeable, engaging, and current on the research. The topic needs to be addressed among the general population and become more of a normative practice in schools. I think this is information that everyone needs to know, considering the prevalence of sexual assault and the fact that anyone can be a victim and we are all directly or indirectly affected.

The work that the MGF does in New Paltz and surrounding areas for teens is super important and empowering. My friends and I attended their event with Tim Mousseau about sexual violence and it was everything I had hoped for and more. It was an amazing, comfortable space to talk and learn about sexual violence, a topic not discussed nearly enough in other settings. Everyone involved in the foundation is super dedicated and passionate about the cause, which leads to the amazing work they do. The MGF not only improves the community it’s in, but it’s also it’s own beautiful community! I highly recommend getting involved in any way you can.

Im a part of the Youth Action Team, and I’m so grateful for all the support they offer to members (especially teens) of our community. Giving a voice to teenagers as well as place to be seen and heard creates a safe feeling environment for teenagers and really brings our community together. Matthew and Elise do really fantastic work and I’m forever grateful for them and their unconditional kindness.

The work the MGF does for teens in the community shows great effort to listen to our voices instead of making all of our decisions for us. When I attend meetings, my opinion is valued and the space is safe and friendly. I especially appreciate the work they do for teen mental health. I attended a teen mental health first aid training and learned a lot and got to share my thoughts and experiences. I love that it is community driven too. Input is constantly sought through surveys, meeting discussions, and teens get to make a difference in the Hudson Valley.

Thank you again for your support of this program. We are grateful for the partnership of the Maya Gold Foundation.

Pride was mahvelous darlings! Thanks you for being there and running the kids table.

The Maya Gold Foundation has helped me a countless amount of times, and I can’t be thankful enough for the guidance they provided me! I did a teen mental health first aid course in October, and I still use the many things they taught me in that class. With close friends and loved ones, i’m glad I can provide them with the correct information needed in serious situations. Everyone involved in TMGF are hardworking, friendly, and extremely welcoming!

The Maya Gold Foundation is a very active and beneficial nonprofit in my community. I am a member of their Youth Action Team and have learned so much about helping my community, my peers and myself! I love working with everyone in this organization and have had only positive experiences in my years with them so far!!

This nonprofit organization has helped me realize that I have a purpose in this world. The cofounders are welcoming and kind people. The events they host are specific to the needs of Hudson Valley teens and are prevalent in today’s society.

Thanks much for the tMHFA class I am using the things I learned all the time. I appreciate it!

Love you all! The teens here in NPZ get a lot out of the Foundation. Keep it up.

Thanks so much for the work you do here in the Hudson Valley! Our teens benefit greatly.

Thanks so much for Tools and Teaching for Trying Times. It was super cool to be online with other teens working on this.

I began working with The Maya Gold Foundation as a Program Consultant in March, 2020. The work that the Foundation does is incredibly organized, meaningful, and empowering. Even in times of great stress with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maya Gold Foundation continues to work for the community and the youth surrounding us. Personally, the work of this organization resonates with me in numerous ways. Elevating the voices of youth is something that is not done often enough, and working with others to do this has been greatly satisfying. The inclusion of the Youth Action Team is brilliant in aiding teens to voice their ideas, concerns, and feelings in multiple situations and with varying topics. The conduct of professionalism is evident in every step that the Foundation takes. The entire Maya Gold Foundation should be commended on its transparency to the public.
I look forward to continuing my work with the Foundation because the positive impact that they bring to youth and communities around us (and overseas!) it is so very clear to see.

I was an intern for the Maya Gold Foundation and I adore this organization. Although my internship was cut short, I was able to gain great insight into the love and dedication that goes into their work. The youth action members are bright, aware, and unique individuals who bring amazing ideas and experiences into the program. The volunteers who run the organization truly care about the betterment of youth as well as expanding their world view. If I were a teenager today, I would have loved to been a part of their programs. As an adult, I highly encourage their adult trips as well. Keep up the great work!! ❤️

Great work on Tools and Teachings for Trying Times! This program was a great offering to our community in these challenging times. I love how you developed this program to meet our needs!

My daughter took part in a recent training and it was most useful. She came home excited and very eager to use the tools she learned in the workshop in her life. Thank you!

My husband and I have just returned from Maya Gold Foundation's adult group trip to Nepal. This was a two-week visit to that country for the purpose of education, cultural exchange, and support of both the Maya Gold Foundation and Nepali organizations working to empower women and children to achieve productive lives despite conditions of extreme poverty and abuse. The group on this trip was comprised of 6 adults, ages ranging 60's to late 70's, plus foundation CEO Mathew Swerdloff and board member Paul Alexander. Every aspect of the trip was orchestrated beautifully. The choice of itinerary, transportation to, from and within Nepal, accommodations, meals, visits to NGOs, interaction with Nepali activists, hands-on art and cooking classes and lectures on religion, economics and history, were all outstanding. A highlight of the trip was a 5-day trek led by guides from Sasane Sisterhood Trekking, a group of female survivors of sex trafficking, who run programs to educate other survivors and help them re-enter society as empowered, productive people. The trek took us to remote villages in the Kathmandu Valley where we were able to interact with villagers and participate in their daily lives. The trek was too physically challenging for my husband and me, the oldest members of the group, so Sasane and Maya Gold Foundation, flexed to create a modified, less strenuous itinerary for the two of us, and we had an unforgettable experience.

Thanks to you all on the Board and Elise and Mathew for the support you are giving our teens. It means so much to so many of them.

Keep up the good work we love what you are doing in NP.

Thanks to the board of the Maya Gold Foundation for supporting ALL kids in our community. As the parent of a child this is important to me. We appreciate all you do.

You all are doing a great job keep it up. Very important work!

I love this group they do such beautiful work with our teens. I know a few on the board and they speak so highly of the adults in the organization. Kudos!

Last night I saw three presentations from kids that went to Nepal; I was so impressed by their work. Thank you for making this possible for local kids.

Such great work for our local teens. Thank you Maya Gold Foundation for supporting our young people.

The Maya Gold Foundation works tirelessly to help teens realize their life ambitions. The work that they do in Nepal is amazing and very much appreciated by the charities that they visit and contribute to. The teens chosen by the Foundation to make the trip to Nepal are very lucky as they get to experience the richness of the Nepali culture through the excursions and fulfilling work they accomplish in their 2 weeks abroad. Youth activism is such an important part of the Foundation's endeavor and the teens involved with the Maya Gold Foundation get to fully experience the feeling of making a difference in the world; an invaluable life experience. Thank you to this amazing nonprofit organization for helping my teen to become a better human being through this wonderful experience.

The Maya Gold Foundation (MGF) is an OUTSTANDING organization!

My daughter has been involved with the MGF for three years and the foundation has had a profound impact on her. The founders, Elise Gold and Mathew Swerdloff dedicate a copious amount of time and energy to implement their mission to "help youth thrive." Motivating and engaging teens through meaningful workshops and community events, empowering them by giving them a voice, and introducing them to responsibility through membership on the Youth Action Team provide the tools for all young adults to flourish.

The trips to Nepal have been instrumental in opening our daughter's mind to a larger world, imparting an education in responsible tourism and raising awareness of humanitarian issues. These experiences have also helped to provide her with a sense of purpose, through service work and cross cultural understanding. This year marks the third time my daughter traveled to Nepal with the MGF. Each trip has been organised with both precision and sensitivity. Never once have i had any cause for concern. I have seen her grow far beyond what is possible in a classroom setting.

Without a doubt, The Maya Gold Foundation is having a huge impact and its leaders, Elise and Mathew are truly inspirational people.

My daughter just returned from a two week trip to Nepal with the Maya Gold Foundation and her experience was transformative. The foundation prepared the youth ambassadors and the families with great care and detail on every aspect of the trip from cultural, educational and service. I cannot emphasize enough what a fine group this is and how they so embody the mission to empower youth in our community to realize their true selves.

Our son went on a 2 week trip to Nepal with the Maya Gold Foundation. He and the other teens on the trip were called "Youth Ambassadors." The empowerment that this name suggests was manifested in so many ways throughout the trip. The experience was deeply meaningful, beyond educational - definitely life changing. Not only did they sight see and learn about culture and religion, but they had the opportunity to develop personal relationships with Nepali teens, learn about the issue of trafficking and interact with women survivors who have successfully re-entered society, and contribute to the lives of young Nepali children through community service at a school. The trip was super well organized and the staff provided such thoughtful support of the Youth Ambassadors.

The Maya Gold Foundation provides such wonderful programming and support for young people (and their families) in our community. Thanks to this organization, my own children have had opportunities to explore art and theatre that they would not have otherwise received, and these explorations have really opened up their self-awareness and confidence. We are grateful for the Maya Gold Foundation's mission, dedication, and ability to make positive, impactful things happen.

I recently went to my first Maya Gold Foundation event and all I can say is that this organization is having a profound impact on community youth and their families. I'm excited to have the opportunity to take part in such meaningful and important events and am so thankful for this Foundation.

What an amazing group of people. The organization’s dedication to helping youth in the Hudson valley and in Nepal is phenomenal. Every single one of the public events they have sponsored has been moving beyond words and I know others have been touched by their work as I have. Their cross cultural travel to Nepal with local teens has been transformational - my son went on the trip this year and it has changed his outlook on life and his desire to be a leader. I can’t say enough about the maya gold foundation.

I am aware of the work of this group in our community. They so a consistent job of providing events that are much needed in our community. Great work Board members!

The Nepal trip was so amazing. It changed my life in so many ways. I thank you for offering this to us!

I saw the recent 13 Reasons Why NOT event and was deeply moved. It is such a great opportunity you are giving our teens!

Thank you so much for your generosity of spirit and loving work.

Great Work!!! I have been so lucky and overjoyed to attend many events

This organization is amazing. Elise and Mathew, the founders, have such high integrity and they are totally dedicated to their mission. The MGF truly makes a difference both locally and internationally. I've seen everything they do meet with success. Would love to see this organization continue to expand, and have a larger and larger impact.

The Maya Gold Foundation was created by Maya Gold's parents after their daughter's tragic death. Mathew Swerdloff and Elise Gold made the life-affirming decision to honor the memory their daughter Maya by helping other teens to fulfill their potential, and to be supported by an aware and loving community. Thus the Maya Gold Foundation was born. Working locally and internationally, the Maya Gold Foundation is working deliberately and creatively to develop programs that will fulfill its mission. The Board's integrity and heart are inspirational. This is humanity at its best, turning tragedy into hope.

I have attended three Maya Gold Foundation events with my young children. They are very well produced and super organized. I got something out of each event, and my children did too. I recommend them highly.

This is an outstanding organization in the Hudson Valley. Their work is has real impact on teens and adults alike. I encourage all to support them.