Matthew Mahoney

Matthew R. Mahoney is a nationally recognized nonprofit leader, government relations strategist, and public affairs executive with more than 25 years of experience shaping policy, building large-scale programs, and driving transformational growth across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Before joining the Red Star Foundation, Mahoney served as Executive Vice President of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, where he led the organization through an unprecedented period of expansion and impact. He built and directed its first-ever government relations program, secured millions in federal and local funding, and oversaw major national initiatives supporting homeless veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families. Under his leadership, Tunnel to Towers increased revenues by more than 639%, maintained a 90%+ program spending ratio, raised over $725 million, and earned industry-leading ratings from Charity Navigator and CharityWatch.

Mahoney also spearheaded the development of the groundbreaking Let Us Do Good Village, a first-of-its-kind community in Florida featuring approximately 100 mortgage-free homes for fallen first responder families, military families, and catastrophically injured veterans. He led national case management operations that moved more than 13,000 homeless veterans off the streets within two years and built partnerships with more than 1,000 nonprofits, federal agencies, and Fortune 500 companies. He also served as Executive Producer for nationally televised 9/11 tribute concerts and holiday specials, significantly expanding brand visibility and donor engagement.

Prior to his nonprofit leadership roles, Mahoney held senior positions across government, including Assistant Commissioner at the NYC Department of Environmental Protection and Director of Community Recovery for the NYC Mayor’s Office in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. He served on the Mayor Giuliani’s Executive Staff during the September 11th attacks, coordinating high-level crisis response and interagency operations. His career also includes leading corporate affairs for SUEZ North America, founding a government relations consulting practice, and serving as a political strategist on three presidential campaigns.

A graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executive Program, Mahoney has authored industry publications, advised global organizations, and earned numerous awards, including City & State Magazine’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award and recognition as a Top 40 Under 40 leader. His work as an executive producer for nationally broadcast benefit concerts has further positioned him as a leading advocate for America’s military, veterans, first responders, and their families.

At the Red Star Foundation, Mahoney brings deep expertise in strategic planning, crisis response, legislative policy, nonprofit governance, and national program development. His leadership plays a central role in advancing Red Star’s mission to prevent military, veteran, and first responder suicide while supporting the families and communities impacted by these tragedies.