My sincere condolences to Matt's loved ones. Though I didn't know him well, he had a big impact in my life and others through the Okanagan Climate Hub. It's heartbreaking to hear about his passing.

My condolences to Matthew's family. I don't recall when we first met but as Climate Reality leaders, our paths crossed frequently on various climate initiatives. We will continue the work he was so passionate about.

I knew Matt very briefly, when I volunteered at Climate Reality many many years ago. After that, I would cross paths with him here and there at local climate events. While I did not know him very well, hearing the news of his passing today really hit me. That's because Matt had a presence and a passion that was undeniable. As others have mentioned, his smile was infectious, and so was his optimism. While I knew him only briefly, I still remember the conversations he and I had, because he was so vivacious and wanted so much to have an impact in his community and on the world. Matt, may you continue to smile upon everyone from wherever you are now, and your legacy in climate activism will live on! My deepest condolences to Matt's wife and children, I can't even begin to imagine the grief you are experiencing at this time. 

Matt came to speak at our local climate event with his little black book in hand (as someone else mentioned:). Sharing this beautiful photo of him and his growing family. My deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and anyone else who had the fortune to know him. May Matt's memory be a blessing.

I remember meeting Matt at Climate Reality training in Atlanta in 2019. The Climate Reality experience was one of the most impactful experiences of my life, but the best part of it was the people I met.

I remember meeting Matt-I remember the conversation we had, the questions he asked me, the sincerity in his eyes, and the genuine interest he had in what I had to say. 

After training, when I found myself in Montreal, I'd send him a message and hope I'd be able pay him a quick visit. It didn't matter how busy he was -- he always made the time to connect, and we always had a good conversation.

A great family man, a dedicated climate advocate and voice for community, and an all around great human, but he is gone too soon.

No doubt, his loss will be felt by many. His legacy will live on and I know I will think of him often when pursuing any climate related initiatives.

🙏🏻

Matthew and colleagues from Climate Reality

I remember meeting Matthew for the first time, when he showed up unannounced at the DSF-CRP office at Maison du Développement Durable.  He was seeking ENGOs' support for the Montreal Climate Coalition. I don't remember the specific ask, but I do remember the impression he left; I could tell right away that he was ambitious, polite and positive and wouldn't take no for an answer. Soon after, I reached out to him as he seemed to be the perfect candidate to develop and launch a new nationwide volunteer engagement initiative. In the following months and years, he designed and built the Community Climate Hubs, and so much more. Matthew was the light that shone the brightest, wherever he went. He was a convener, a friend and a teacher to all of us in the climate movement. He was one of the best listeners I've ever met! He kept notes of his conversations in his teeny-tiny notebooks. Ideas, websites, books, challenges, opportunities - you name it - if Matt thought something was interesting, it was recorded in a tiny notebook. Matt, I'll miss you, buddy! 

Véro, Adeline, Flora, I can't imagine the grief you are feeling. My heart and my thoughts are with you.

I'm including a small photo album from Matt's early years at Climate Reality (2017-18): bit.ly/mchap

Dear Matt,It's hard to believe that, as I was celebrating my 36th trip around the sun, your journey abruptly came to an end. It's hard to even fathom how many lives you've touched, and what the grassroots climate movement would be without you.

I love this picture because it so accurately depicts the contagious nature of your lightheartedness & kindness, and the joy that you incessantly spread in the lives of everyone who had the immense luck and privilege of crossing paths with you. 

I've often thought to myself that the world needs more Matthew Chapmans; instead, we're one down. I'm heartbroken. But I'll never forget you, friend. I promise to do my best to spread the kindness and generosity that you've shown me on so many occasions. 

My heart goes out to your loved ones in this difficult time. Véro, Adeline, Flora: Matt's memory will stay alive through you all, and in that sense, he'll never be far away.

That million dollar, contagious smile — with Audrey Dépault