When you meet Art and Jan Triglione, you see the heart of Mission of Deeds’ story. Art’s father, Tony Triglione, founded our organization in 1993 with a vision that grew out of his own life experience.

When World War II arrived, Tony left high school to join the Navy. During his four years of service, he dutifully sent home his pay to help with his family’s expenses. After the war, he returned to Somerville and found work as a mechanic. He dreamed of opening his own business but did not have the money to do so. Discouraged, Tony confided in his mother. She then took him to a bureau drawer and, to his amazement, presented him with every penny of the Navy pay he had sent home. With that money, Tony opened a gas station in Woburn.

“I feel really blessed to have known Tony’s mother,” said Jan. “Knowing her personality and the love she had for her family, the gesture of saving money hits you in the heart. All that love passed on to Tony. His mother was the same giving person. Wonderful woman.”

From those humble beginnings, Tony’s business career thrived. With his success came the ability and the desire to give back. Out of gratitude, compassion, and a deep belief in service, Tony started Mission of Deeds.

“We always felt and embodied Tony’s dream of starting Mission of Deeds,” said Jan. “There is a deeply personal commitment on both of our parts to carry this forward.”

In the early days, Art and Jan were essential to the success of the organization. Jan, a true force in the real estate community, inspired countless furniture donations through her network of realtor contacts. Art, a natural and gifted speaker, carried the Mission of Deeds story into churches and community groups, sharing the importance and impact of the organization.

“I remember I was speaking at one church and my folks came to listen,” said Art. “As I was speaking, my father was crying. He was so proud to hear me speak about Mission of Deeds. I will never forget it.”

Today, Art and Jan remain integral to our success. Jan is a powerhouse fundraiser, securing in-kind auction items and spreading the word about free furniture pickups. Art drives in every day, connecting with volunteers and welcoming clients. His conversations with clients are warm and comforting. Their anxieties fade as they hear the story of how Mission of Deeds began and how they will be helped today.

“I try to express that they make my day by coming to Mission of Deeds,” said Art. “We are happy to help them and I hope it makes their day as well.”

Thanks to the commitment of Art and Jan, and the generosity of supporters like you, Tony’s dream to transform lives is possible.