SHAWANO, WI – A familiar face in the Shawano County community is being recognized on a statewide level, as Matty Mathison has been named Wisconsin’s AARP Volunteer of the Year.
Mathison, a longtime advocate for local trails and outdoor spaces, has been heavily involved with Shawano Pathways and the Friends of the Mountain Bay Trail. Donna Hobscheid says Mathison’s leadership and energy have made a lasting impact, “She is an inspiration who brings people together and gets projects done.” Hobscheid adds that Mathison’s ability to organize volunteers and push projects forward has been key to the group’s success over the years.
One of Mathison’s most notable contributions has been the creation of the Trail Tenders, a volunteer group focused on improving and maintaining the Mountain Bay Trail. Through that effort, Mathison worked with a local engineer to develop a system to reduce erosion around bridge approaches. Volunteers have since installed those improvements on 22 approaches across 11 bridges along the 53-mile trail.
Cathie Sunday with the Friends of the Mountain Bay Trail says the Trail Tenders group has grown to more than 50 volunteers, “It’s allowing for major improvements that may not have been possible otherwise.” She notes the partnership with the county has helped secure resources while volunteers continue to handle much of the hands-on work, including bridge repairs and ongoing trail maintenance.
In addition to large-scale projects, Mathison has also helped organize trail upkeep efforts like pre-hike inspections to ensure safety and proper markings. Community members say her dedication, time, and leadership have played a major role in preserving and enhancing local outdoor spaces.
Mathison will be honored locally during a celebration on March 31st at the Shawano County Park Pavilion, recognizing her years of service and her statewide achievement.
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