Teresa Courtemanche is the President and Co-Founder of The Matt Garcia Foundation, created in honor of her son Matt, one of the youngest city council members in California history. After Matt’s life was tragically taken in 2008, Teresa transformed her grief into action, dedicating herself to empowering youth, supporting survivors of violence, and strengthening the community. With over 25 years at Kaiser Permanente and more than 35 years in recovery, she also facilitates a monthly Homicide Survivors Support Group. A devoted wife and mother, Teresa lives her mission of hope, healing, and community change.