Mathis is a mentor to many children in his Tiffany Pines neighborhood. For the last eight years, at-risk teenagers have worked with the Navy veteran to refurbish old bikes for needy children at Christmas.
"Sometimes we talk about their parents, how they wish had more time with them in their everyday lives," Mathis says.
The 62-year-old man wants to help children all year long by turning donated space on Ramsey Street into a community center.
"We have so many kids out here who needs things to do to keep them out of the streets, to keep them away from drug dealers," Mathis says.
Mathis wants donated computers for classes to help dropouts get their GED. It will also be a place for children to just come and talk.
Daniel Sulton, 15, and Walter Stephens, 13, have helped Mathis fix bikes over the summer. Stephens likes Mathis' new idea.
"As a party zone to hang out, a place to come in and have fun, watch television and stuff," Stephens says.
Mathis has donated his time and talents to his community. He is now looking for money and computers to help expand his dream.
"What makes me feel good is when kids come back from college and say, 'Mr. Moses, if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be doing what I am doing today,'" Mathis says. "That's why I keep doing this."
Anyone who would like to donate money or computers can call Moses Mathis at910-822-2034.
• Credits
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
