OUR TEAM
What is our goal in the long run?
Matt’s Mission exists to end the stigma and shame of drug addiction. The nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization seeks to educate people on the disease of addiction focusing on treatment not punishment, to assist with policy changes creating new paths to treatment, and to unite law enforcement, community and treatment facilities together with individuals suffering from substance use disorders.
The specific objectives and purposes of this organization are:
1. To provide awareness of addiction as a disease focusing on treatment not punishment.
2. To provide pathways into treatment and services for individuals suffering from addiction without shame, blame or arrest.
“It is about saving lives, rebuilding families, helping individuals on a lifelong road to recovery and combating the stigma associated with addiction.”
Kelly Barrett
President
Kelly is dedicated to helping others both through her work as a clinician as well as in fighting the disease of addiction, a disease that tragically ended her brother’s life in 2015. Kelly is committed to being part of the solution to the addiction crisis that has affected our community as well as our nation as a whole.
Kelly was born in Colorado Springs, CO and raised in Griswold, CT, having graduated from Griswold High School in 1997. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Eastern Connecticut State University, and her Master’s in Health Sciences from Quinnipiac University.
After working as a Physician Assistant for 8 years, she has decided to further her education in a more naturalistic, holistic approach to health.
Kelly is the President of Matt’s Mission – End the Stigma of addiction which seeks to raise awareness of addiction as a disease and promote treatment over incarceration for those battling addiction. She is dedicated to helping others both through her work as a clinician as well as in fighting the disease of addiction, a disease that tragically ended her brother’s life in 2015.
Kelly is committed to being part of the solution to the addiction crisis that has affected our community as well as our nation as a whole. She believes strongly that when given the proper support, every individual can combat the disease of addiction and reach their full potential.
Kelly is currently living in Central Village CT, and is excited to take Matt’s Mission into the future as President.
Daryl McGraw
Vice-President
Daryl’s personal journey through addiction and incarceration has prepared him to be a voice and
advocate for those who still find themselves caught in the vicious cycles of addiction and recidivism. When he is not out trying to save the world, he is a devoted father of three and a youth basketball
coach.
Daryl McGraw is the President and Founder of Formerly Inc., Connecticut’s first criminal justice consultant agency, that is predominantly staffed by formerly incarcerated individuals. Mr. McGraw also spends part of his time working at the Institute for Municipal Policy and Research at Central Connecticut State University as a Reentry Consultant, working to better the Reentry Process for Returning Citizens in Connecticut.
Prior to branching out on his own, Mr. McGraw served as Program Director for the Yale University Department of Psychiatry, during which time he was contracted to serve as the Director of the Office of Recovery Community Affairs for the State of Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
In 2007, Mr. McGraw experienced a life changing event when he was arrested for probation violation and assault on a police officer, and was sentenced to serve 4 years in prison. This was not Mr. McGraw’s first time in prison although it would be his last time as an inmate. During his time of incarceration, Mr. McGraw used every second behind bars to create what he calls today his five-year plan for successful reentry.
In 2010, Mr. McGraw was released from prison with a GED and six composition notebooks complete with his own personal blueprint for reentry. Today, Mr. McGraw holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management and Leadership, both from Springfield College. He also has his state certifications as an Addictions Counselor, Recovery Support Specialist, and a Criminal Justice Professional. Prior to entering the human service field, Mr. McGraw held several leadership positions in the hospitality field working for Fortune 500 companies.
Mr. McGraw has over 10 years of personal and professional experience in urban trauma, addiction recovery, and community reintegration. He is considered an expert in the field of Criminal Justice Reform and regularly speaks around the country and internationally in a variety of settings including university campuses, correctional facilities, behavioral health organizations, and national conferences.
Daryl’s personal journey through addiction and incarceration has prepared him to be a voice and advocate for those who still find themselves caught in the vicious cycles of addiction and recidivism. When he is not out trying to save the world, he is a devoted father of three and a youth basketball coach.
Kathleen Dufficy
Founder / Secretary / Treasurer
Kathleen Dufficy was born and raised in Connecticut. Kathleen founded “Matt’s Mission – End the Stigma of Drug Addiction” after her son, Matthew lost his 12 year battle with addiction in a drug-related accident on November 23, 2015. Kathleen is also the Founder, Secretary & Treasurer of the Matt’s Mission Board.
Kathleen Dufficy was born and raised in Connecticut. Kathleen founded “Matt’s Mission – End the Stigma of Drug Addiction” after her son, Matthew lost his 12 year battle with addiction in a drug-related accident on November 23, 2015.
Kathleen has 31 years of experience with the CT Judicial Branch retiring in October, 2017, has volunteered for numerous community based organizations, participates in programs to continue educating herself on substance use disorders and completed training as a Recovery Coach.
Her passion is to bring awareness to others through treatment programs and education, and assisting individuals on their path to treatment without shame, blame or arrest.
Kathleen stongly believes we need to shift our direction to treating addiction as a medical issue. Encouragement, support and treatment will end the distress and break down the barriers which prevent individuals from seeking treatment. She is a supporter of P.A.A.R.I. creating new pathways to treatment including the no arrest programs.
Kathleen believes it is about saving lives, rebuilding families, helping individuals on a lifelong road to recovery and combating the stigma associated with addiction.
John F. Malone
Board Member
Jack Malone is the President and Executive Director of the Southeastern Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (S.C.A.D.D.). He has been with the agency over 20 years. His main effort in is to ensure a safe and sober place is available the moment a person declares they need help with their addiction.
Jack Malone is the President and Executive Director of the Southeastern Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (S.C.A.D.D.).
He has been with the agency since 1995 and its director since 2001. As such he has been a tireless advocate for treatment for all those who suffer from the disease of addiction. His main effort in his years with SCADD have been to ensure a safe and sober place is available the moment a person declares they need help with their addiction.
He is a frequent speaker on all aspects of addiction and treatment locally, statewide and nationally. Mr. Malone has advised cities and businesses on steps to take when confronted with addiction and its damaging costs.
He is often called upon in the community by families who have suddenly learned a precious loved one is horribly addicted. In that regard he lives by the belief that in order to keep the fabulous gift of sobriety he enjoys, he must give it away freely and continuously.
Anna Bedell
Board Member
Anna has lived in Southeastern CT for most of her life. Anna has been a person in recovery since March of 2014 and has experienced, firsthand, how addiction impacts the lives of individuals, their families and the community around them.
Anna has lived in Southeastern CT for most of her life. Currently she resides in Uncasville with her two children and husband.
Anna has been a person in recovery since March of 2014 and has experienced, firsthand, how addiction impacts the lives of individuals, their families and the community around them.
Anna, herself, has been through several treatment programs. She has experienced various challenges that people encounter when trying maintain sobriety.
Anna has volunteered at several events for Bethsaida Community Inc, donating her time, sharing her personal story and her musical talent.
She is excited to be a member of the Matt’s Mission Board of Directors. It is her hope that her personal experience can help achieve positive change in the community.
Anna is dedicated to do her part in eliminating the judgment people face when trying to recover from addiction.
Christopher Jackson
Board Member
Since early 2018, Christopher Jackson has been acting as a volunteer for Matt’s Mission, contributing to the organization through graphic design, web development, live streaming of the 2019 Matt’s Mission Celebrates Recovery event and beyond.
Christopher Jackson is a marketing professional with over 10 years experience in everything from small business marketing, to managing the marketing and branding strategy for a nationally franchised company.
Since early 2018, Chris has been acting as a volunteer for Matt’s Mission, contributing to the organization through graphic design, web development, live streaming of the 2019 Matt’s Mission Celebrates Recovery event and beyond.
A passionate fighter for justice, Chris is always willing to speak up and speak out on behalf of disenfranchised communities, and is proud to have the opportunity to contribute to the important work being done through Matt’s Mission.
Jane Panus
Treasurer
Jane is from Griswold and has been working as an accountant for over 23 years. After witnessing the tragedy of young people close to her fight addiction or succumb to overdose, she realized this issue was close to heart and became involved in changing the stigma of abuse.
Jane Panus was born in Griswold, CT and educated in the Griswold School System.
In June, 1990, she completed the requirements for an Associate of Science Degree in Business Administration: Accounting, at Quinebaug Valley Community College, Danieslon, CT. She was a member of the Omicron Chapter of Alpha Beta Gamma.
In August, 1993, she was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree: Accounting, from Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic, CT. She was a member of the Delta Omega Chapter of Delta Mu Delta.
Jane has been working as an accountant for over 23 years in the Property and Casualty insurance business and held positions of Accountant, Sr. Accountant, Assistant Treasurer, and Accounting/HR Manager. Jane currently resides in Lisbon, CT with her husband Michael.
Throughout her career, Jane has been involved in various community activities such as: United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Foodshare, Toys for Tots, and many other community based programs. However, she now recognizes there is a more pressing need that needs to be addressed.
A few years ago, the opiate crisis blew up. Everyone knew someone who suffered from the disease of addiction and the drugs were easily available. However, everyone kept their eyes closed; it was someone else’s kid, friend, parent. No one could find help or a way out; no one wanted to get involved!
After the tragedies of young people close to her either fighting addiction or succumbing to overdose, she realized this issue was very close to her heart and would like to be involved changing the stigma of abuse.
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