Matthew Allen Potter was only seven years old when he was tragically killed on a
roller coaster ride at the York Fair on September 10, 2001. Jack Lehr, close family
friend and neighbor of the Potter’s, was overcome with grief and a deep sense of
loss. Jack’s response was to organize a golf tournament in Matthew’s memory and
donate the proceeds to a local children’s organization. The Matthew Allen Potter
Memorial Golf Tournament was started in September 2002 and held for five
consecutive years. During the course of the tournament’s history, a staggering total
of more than $160,000 in net proceeds was donated to Leg Up Farm.
At the 2006 tournament, Board Chairman Lou Castriota, Jr. gratefully acknowledged
the generous contributions and unwavering support of Jack and the extended Potter
family over the years. Before an enthusiastic crowd of more than 225 attendees,
Castriota proclaimed that the HEART of Leg Up Farm would now and forever be known
as Matthew’s Town. Matthew Allen Potter’s legacy and spirit will live on through
the children utilizing Leg Up Farm as they foster socialization skills, engage peers,
and develop new skills to improve their lives.
Matthew’s Town will be a highly functional playroom for children to engage in creative
and imaginary play while achieving their individual goals.
Upon entering Matthew’s Town, the children will be magically transported into a
safe, realistic, sensory-enriched environment . . . complete with sidewalks, a large
grassy area, a two-story barn and attached silo, plus various shops and businesses
familiarly found throughout the York community. Not only will this area be used
for individual and small group therapy sessions, but it will also serve as a place
for children and families to gather as they explore their imagination and the world
around them. To view a preliminary design of the proposed play space, please
click here.
Matthew’s Town will contain more than a dozen interactive “stores” and “storefronts”
that businesses and organizations can sponsor. In addition to increased brand awareness
and recognition, sponsorships are an excellent way for companies to demonstrate
their commitment to social responsibility and community involvement.
If you are interested in exploring creative, win-win opportunities with Leg Up Farm
as your partner, please contact Lou Castriota directly by
email or by calling
(717) 843-8341.
Matthew's Town (1MB)