Mission Statement

The Anton Matthias Charitable Foundation (AMCF) exists to restore hope and opportunity through education for those affected by decades of conflict and marginalization.

We are committed to supporting disadvantaged students by facilitating access to quality education, partnering with educational institutions, and uncovering ancestral roots through global donations and resources.

AMF operates with a deep sense of purpose, guided by values of equity, inclusion, and cultural preservation. Through strategic collaboration and community engagement, we empower individuals to reclaim their identity, pursue learning, and build a brighter, more just future.

About Us

This foundation was formed by donors who had been integral in supporting poor school students in the Jaffna diocese, a mission initiated by the Late Rev. Dr. Anton Matthias. Since 1974, after graduating from the Pontifical College in Rome, he pioneered grassroots assistance to students, driven by a vision of nurturing future adults guided by faith, hope, and mutual care.

One of the intriguing things was no one knew how he has impacted in these poor communicates who were also affected by the war for more than 30 years. He always provided food and books for school children and always encourage to pursue an education that will help the society.

Current & Future Services

AMC foundation was formed in 2022 Australia to continue his mission helping children where these families that have been identified each parish in Jaffna and Kilinochchi parishes. Initially we have identified 1400 students (primary and secondary level) and provide basic schools need focused on providing stationery for kids as these poor kids cannot afford to buy exercise books, pens and pencils and aiding for teachers to teach them in remote areas where the teachers can travel and conduct classes.

  • 📚 Supplying essential educational resources for primary education based on parish-identified needs.
  • 🎓 Providing stipends for students pursuing tertiary education.
  • 💧 Constructing wells in water-scarce regions.
  • 🌐 Training students through international knowledge transfer by second-generation Tamil-speaking overseas mentors.
  • 🗣️ Enhancing English proficiency and developing leadership in strategic education fields.

1. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment

  • Encourage open expression: Let students share thoughts without fear of judgment.
  • Celebrate small wins: Recognize every achievement to reinforce positive self-worth.
  • Establish trust: Build meaningful relationships through mentorship and consistent support.

2. Provide Leadership Opportunities

  • Student-led projects: Let them lead group work or events.
  • Peer mentoring: Older or more confident students guide younger ones.
  • Public speaking roles: Safe opportunities for storytelling or presentations.

3. Identify and Nurture Hidden Skills

  • Skill assessments: Explore talents through informal tools or chats.
  • Hands-on activities: Try art, tech, sports, or community work.
  • Tailored workshops: Build skills in communication and emotional intelligence.

4. Instil a Growth Mindset

  • Reframe failure: Treat it as a learning opportunity.
  • Model resilience: Share stories of persistence.
  • Goal setting: Help students define and track personal goals.

5. A Tailored Guide for Post-Conflict and Diaspora Students

  • Support children facing trauma or identity loss.
  • Assist diaspora youth lacking local networks.
  • Overcome language and cultural barriers with empathy and empowerment.

6. Provide Positive Role Models

  • Guest speakers: Invite those who overcame adversity.
  • Mentorship: Match with mentors from similar backgrounds.
  • Community engagement: Encourage learning from the real world.

7. A Visual Handout or Infographic

  • Create a visually engaging infographic summarizing strategies like:
  • “Celebrate Small Wins”, “Lead Through Action”, “Think Forward”

8. Foster Proactive Thinking

  • Critical thinking: Games and debates to develop ideas.
  • Service learning: Help solve real community problems.
  • Reflection: Journaling or discussions to internalize lessons.

9. Entrepreneurship and Social Leadership

  • Develop leaders who make a difference in fragmented societies.
  • Champion inclusive entrepreneurship and service excellence.
  • Build a cohesive social fabric for future quality-driven generations.