Fieldman leads MedWish International’s fundraising efforts, Band-Aid Bash

Matt Fieldman of MedWish International shows surplus medical supplies to be redistributed to nations in need.

Orlando native Matthew Fieldman is planting roots in Northeast Ohio—specifically in University Heights. With an undergraduate degree from University of Florida and an MBA from George Washington University, Fieldman began his fundraising career with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. While looking to expand his work, a mentor suggested that he pursue an opportunity with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. He fell in love with the city.

Following several years at the Federation and various consulting projects, Fieldman discovered MedWish International and landed a position as director of development for the Cleveland-based nonprofit organization.

MedWish recovers surplus medical supplies designated for disposal by 38 hospitals throughout Northeast Ohio and redistributes them to developing nations where they can save lives and promote better health.

“In 2010, MedWish grew 47 percent and served 54 countries around the world,” Fieldman said. “With ten years experience in fundraising, I’ve been lucky to find a growing organization that offers an international flavor and has so much potential. With a sustainability-focused mission, we’re ready to take MedWish to the next level.”

One of Fieldman’s main responsibilities is to oversee Band-Aid Bash, the organization’s annual fundraising event, which was held on Saturday, May 21. MedWish transformed its industrial warehouse at 17325 Euclid Ave. in Cleveland into a trendy, New York City-style nightclub. Guests were surrounded by 40,000 square feet of medical surplus waiting to be shipped overseas. Expected to raise more than $200,000 to support its mission of “saving lives and saving the environment,” the event featured a live video conference with an international hospital. Spice of Life, a catering company dedicated to using only local, sustainable foods, provided international foods. WKYC’s Mark Nolan served as the guest emcee.

Fieldman and his wife, Alyson, have settled down in University Heights. They have two daughters—Eliana, a toddler, and Liona, an infant. “When we were looking to buy a home, we wanted a place where we could walk to restaurants and coffee shops, and we ended up at Fairmount Circle,” said Fieldman. “We enjoy taking our daughters for walks around JCU, eating dinner at Pizzazz, and playing at the local parks. University Heights offers a great quality of life.”

Fieldman welcomes financial support for MedWish, and also seeks individuals and groups to volunteer to help sort medical supplies at the MedWish warehouse during the week and on most Saturdays. For more information on MedWish, visit www.medwish.org.