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El Cajon Today
By the People, for the People
Artist with Cerebral Palsy Fundraising for Life-Changing Van
Yonan Matti hopes to purchase a specially-equipped vehicle to improve his mobility and independence.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:33pm
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A fundraiser aims to provide a young artist with cerebral palsy the mobility and independence he needs to pursue his passions.El Cajon TodayYonan Matti, a 23-year-old artist and student living with cerebral palsy, is hosting a fundraiser on April 26th to raise money for a specially-equipped van that would help him get to medical appointments, school, and community events. Matti, who communicates using an eye-tracking device on his wheelchair, fled Iraq as a child and is now an American citizen pursuing his education and artistic passions.
Why it matters
Matti's story highlights the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing reliable transportation, which can limit their ability to live independently and participate fully in their communities. The fundraiser aims to provide Matti with a life-changing resource that could dramatically improve his quality of life.
The details
Matti was born with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition that affects his motor skills and speech. He uses a wheelchair equipped with an eye-tracking device to communicate. Matti's friend and caretaker, Elizabeth Castagnera, a retired special education teacher, has been supporting him for years. The upcoming fundraiser, called 'Rock, Reggae and the Road Fundraiser,' will feature live music, a Mexican dinner, a silent auction, and a comedy set by Matti himself. Proceeds from the event will go towards purchasing a van that is specially outfitted for Matti's needs.
- Matti was born in Iraq and later became an American citizen.
- Matti graduated from El Cajon Valley High School and a Valhalla High program.
- Matti is currently a student at Cal State San Marcos.
- The fundraiser is scheduled for April 26, 2026.
The players
Yonan Matti
A 23-year-old artist and student living with cerebral palsy who is fundraising for a specially-equipped van to improve his mobility and independence.
Elizabeth Castagnera
Matti's friend and caretaker, a retired special education teacher who has been supporting him for years.
What they’re saying
“Our event is called Rock, Reggae and the Road Fundraiser. Good music, good food, one life-changing van.”
— Yonan Matti
“He's got a lot of needs. I just got really involved and couldn't stop.... And then I retired the same year that he aged out of the (Valhalla High School) transition program.”
— Elizabeth Castagnera, Matti's friend and caretaker
“And she is my best friend.”
— Yonan Matti
What’s next
Matti and his supporters are hoping the fundraiser will generate enough donations to purchase a specially-equipped van that will significantly improve his mobility and independence.
The takeaway
Matti's story is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing the transportation they need to fully participate in their communities. By coming together to support Matti's fundraiser, the local community has an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the life of a determined and talented young artist.
