Michael’s Story
Our Why
Michael was remarkable, brimming with boundless energy, love, and selflessness that never failed to bring smiles to those around him. His intelligence shone brightly, graduating as one of the top ten students in his high school class and earning a scholarship to Northeastern University. His musical talents were equally impressive, as he possessed a piano-playing ability that most could only dream of.
However, even with his many accomplishments and talents, Michael grappled with an inner void. This struggle led him down a path neither he nor his family could have foreseen. The descent into addiction was painful, and tragically, it culminated in Michael ending his own suffering in 2009.
While Michael's passing may have relieved his anguish, it cast a long and heavy shadow on those he left behind. With time, it became abundantly clear that Michael's battle with addiction was far from an isolated case. Countless families and individuals were, and still are, grappling with the relentless grip of addiction, often feeling a sense of hopelessness.
In response to this pressing need for change, the Dias family took a significant step forward by establishing the Michael J Dias Foundation. As the Foundation evolved, it welcomed a diverse board of directors and dedicated volunteers, all driven by a shared commitment to making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of those affected by addiction.
Michael J Dias
Michael’s Legacy: Helping Others affected by Addiction
The story doesn't end here. Michael's spirit continues to inspire us. Since the Foundation's establishment in 2012, our organization has experienced consistent growth. The support from our local community has been nothing short of extraordinary, fueling the success of our diverse fundraising events, including our annual golf tournament, galas, and cornhole and basketball tournaments.
Moreover, the Foundation has initiated and now manages the MJD Support Group, which convenes every Tuesday evening. This invaluable resource provides solace and guidance to parents and families grappling with addiction challenges.
2016
In 2016, we proudly established Michael’s House, a haven for men in the early stages of their recovery journey. Here, they find solace within a supportive community of peers, guided by a compassionate staff who intimately comprehend the path to recovery. This unique dwelling fosters a nurturing and family-oriented atmosphere, earning it a sterling reputation across the northeastern region.
It's worth noting that this house's creation and sustenance stem from the tireless dedication of our Foundation members. Residents of Michael's House are encouraged to secure employment and contribute to its day-to-day operational expenses. To fortify this endeavor, the Foundation ensures that the house's essential capital needs are consistently met.
2017
In 2017, upon learning of the impactful work being carried out by the Michael J Dias Foundation, a generous donor came forward with a remarkable contribution, free of any conditions or expectations. This profound generosity enabled us to acquire and establish a second sober home. We named this new residence "Sean's Place" in honor of Sean Wilczynski, who, like many others, battled addiction and tragically passed away in 2016.
The enduring support and dedication of Sean's parents, who are ardent Foundation supporters and esteemed members of our board of directors, have played a pivotal role in making Sean's Place a reality. Sean's journey was marked by challenges in transitioning from early recovery to a more independent phase. We've designed Sean's Place as a self-governing transitional sober community to address this gap. Here, men ready to move beyond the structured environment of a sober home can find a supportive community that offers the close camaraderie of their peers while maintaining a commitment to sobriety.
2019
In 2019, our Foundation experienced continued growth, bolstered by the unwavering support of our community. We were exceptionally fortunate to witness the success of fundraisers organized by individuals and groups who share a deep appreciation for the work of the Michael J Dias Foundation. These events were orchestrated by those who have either directly benefited from our organization or seen its positive impact on their loved ones.
2020
In 2020, the Foundation took a significant step by acquiring a third sober living residence named "Christian and Brian's House." This new addition operates like Michael's House, serving as a supportive and nurturing community for men in the early stages of their recovery.
The acquisition of Christian and Brian's House was made possible through a combination of Foundation funds and a generous contribution from the Forest Park Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds in memory of their friends, Christian Diaz and Brian Metzger. Their mission aligns with our own in combating the harrowing opioid epidemic, making this partnership all the more meaningful.
Our Mission
The dedicated volunteers of the Michael J Dias Foundation are wholeheartedly committed to their mission of supporting individuals and families on the path to drug-free communities. Our core objective is to assist and educate individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. We stand firmly by those fighting the battle against addiction, working to bring about a positive change in their lives.
