Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
By Angela M. Coggs
On March 15, 2025, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA NFL player Alexander Mattison and the IAMGIFTED Foundation hosted the Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event at the Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy Center. The family-friendly gathering brought the community together to promote mental health awareness in a fun and welcoming environment.
Mattison, a proud San Bernardino native and San Bernardino High School alumnus, took center stage at the event, sharing his personal journey with mental health struggles. He spoke candidly about-facing past challenges without realizing their impact, crediting mentors Pastor Mark Thornton and his aunt, Dr. Angela Mattison-Brantley, for helping him shift his perspective and embrace a positive path forward. With heartfelt gratitude, Mattison praised Dr. Mattison-Brantley for her unwavering support and guidance.
“At IAMGIFTED Foundation, our purpose is to empower and uplift young minds by providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential,” said Niki Dettman, Chief Executive Officer at Making Hop e Happen Foundation and IAMGIFTED Foundation Board Member. “Today’s event truly highlights the power of community, collaboration, and giving back. We are thankful to Wellness Ranch Therapy and the many sponsors and vendors who supported us.”
Attendees embraced the western theme by donning cowboy hats, boots, and other ranch-inspired attire. Those who participated in the theme were entered into a raffle to win an exciting prize, adding a fun and engaging element to the day.
The event, sponsored by Andre Reed Foundation, Awareness Training, Bank of America, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr., CIA33 Photography, Creative Kingdom, Cutey Cookies, Goody’s Original Popcorn, Homecooked Meals by Mindy, The Parlor Pizzeria, and SoCAL Fitness and Massage Therapy. It was a lively celebration filled with memorable moments. Mattison actively mingled with guests, signing autographs, posing for photos, and even joining the crowd on the dance floor for the stretching exercise and when the line dance songs started to play. His genuine enthusiasm and energy created a welcoming atmosphere, making it hard to believe this was the IAMGIFTED Foundation’s first wellness event.
“The event at the Wellness Ranch with the Equine Assistance Therapy with Alexander Mattison was absolutely amazing, it was amazing. The kids, the families, the professionals…it was for everybody,” exclaimed County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Troy Mondragon. “Coming here today was a joy for us (Commissioner Contreras). This event saves lives. The way they are demonstrating what mental health can be, how we can live with it and have fun, and that everybody has a gift. That was the message here and it resonated with every single person.”
Mattison’s dedication to his hometown is nothing short of inspiring. Since joining the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, he has consistently given back to his community. He hosts an annual football camp at San Bernardino High School, providing local kids with mentorship, skills training, and inspiration. Additionally, he sponsors scholarships and personally presents monthly Student of the Month awards to deserving students in the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).
Mattison’s commitment to showing up in person makes a lasting impact on the students he recognizes. His warm smile, approachable personality, and unwavering dedication have earned him a special place in the hearts of his community. “We are very proud that he (Mattison) is from San Bernardino,” said County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Eloisa Contreras.
Mattison sincerely spoke to the attendees straight from the heart: “You were born with a gift. You have to find it, embrace it and use it to shed light on the world. If you can be a little bit of light in somebody’s dark times, pay it forward and bring them to the light. We can all make this place and world a brighter place. Find your gift within. You’re not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, find your gift and let it shine.”
The Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event was a powerful reminder that mental health awareness can be addressed in a positive, uplifting way — and Alexander Mattison continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, on and off the field, for the San Bernardino community and beyond.
Alexander Mattison is an American professional football running back for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football Leagues (NFL).
