
** Photo courtesy of North Shore CASA

It starts with one decision
The First Hit is a presentation focused on how small decisions can shape the direction of a person’s life.
Through lived experience and professional insight, Matthew shares how choices, pressure, and environment can influence the path someone takes.
Nobody plans to go down a certain path. It usually starts small.
This presentation helps students understand how those moments happen and gives them a chance to think differently before that first decision.

Presentation Overview
A real conversation about choices, pressure, mental health, substance use, and how one decision can change direction.
Designed for:
Schools, colleges, community organizations, and recovery/wellness programs.

School & Community Speaking
Matthew volunteers with NAMI NYC’s Ending the Silence program, where he speaks with students about mental health, stigma, warning signs, and the importance of speaking up. He also volunteers with NAMI NYC’s In Our Own Voice program.
Matthew recently spoke on a panel in Glen Head, Long Island, where he shared his experience with addiction, recovery, and mental health.
Matthew has also spoken at a treatment center in Garrison, NY, where he shared his story and spoke about recovery and making changes in your life.
Matthew recently spoke at Family and Children’s Association (FCA), where he connected with young adults and shared a message about mental health, decision-making, and personal growth.

Formats Available

Keynote with Q&A
A powerful keynote session followed by an interactive Q&A to deepen insights.

Interactive Workshops
Hands-on, engaging sessions designed to actively involve participants in learning through real-time activities and collaboration.

Panels/Community Forums
It is an open space where people connect, share ideas and ask questions.
Book Matthew
Presentations can be tailored for schools, colleges, community organizations, and recovery/wellness programs.
Interested in bringing The First Hit™ to your school or organization?
Fill out the form below and Matthew will follow up to learn more about your event and see how he can best support your audience.


** Photo courtesy of North Shore CASA