Recent Impact Stories
Every story shared through FCM Cares reflects our commitment to empowering kindness in the communities we serve. Through acts of service, charitable giving, and meaningful partnerships, we proudly support four pillars that guide our mission: Education, Housing, Women and Children, and Veterans, creating lasting impact for individuals and families in need. Click below to explore our recent work and impact stories within each of our pillars.
Education
The Education Pillar invests in learning and career development through scholarships, partnerships, and support of educational programs. By helping expand access to education and professional resources, this pillar empowers individuals to build skills, pursue opportunities, and achieve long-term success.
Grandi Nan Nou
Grandi Nan Nou Home Ministries, a nonprofit based in Haiti and led by Shelby and Jameson Toyo of Murfreesboro, TN, continue to serve their community with resilience and purpose. Through education, discipleship, and trade training, they are creating a safe space. With support from a local Life Group and proceeds from a recent yard sale held while the Toyos were in the U.S. fundraising, over $2,000 was raised. FCM Cares was honored to match those funds to help GNN continue their mission of equipping and empowering the next generation.
United Way Catalyst
FCM Cares sponsored the kickoff reception for the United Way of South Central Tennessee's Catalyst program for the 2025-2026 class. In August, a kick-off reception was held at FCM’s corporate office in Murfreesboro, TN, marking the start of an exciting year of education and leadership development. The United Way Catalyst program is designed to train and empower the nonprofit volunteer leaders of tomorrow. Over the course of nine intensive sessions, participants receive education in critical areas such as governance, financial accountability, advocacy, diversity and inclusion, and fundraising. The program also exposes attendees to a variety of nonprofit structures and operational models.
Devo Marsh Memorial Scholarship Fund
Established in 2024, the Jerry “Devo” Marsh Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of a young man whose impact continues to resonate in the Jackson, Tennessee community. Devo, cousin of FCM Compliance Coordinator Cara Pryor, was deeply involved in local charities and youth sports, leaving behind a legacy of service and compassion. In tribute to his memory, Devo’s family created a scholarship to support high school athletes in their pursuit of higher education. We are deeply honored that Cara entrusted FCM Cares to help carry forward his legacy through contributions to the scholarship fund. Thanks to the generosity of supporters and the success of the memorial tournament, $35,000 was raised, enabling six deserving students to receive scholarships. It’s a powerful reminder of the lasting impact one life can have.
JC Gordon Scholarship
FCM Cares, in partnership with the JC Gordon family, proudly presented the JC Gordon Scholarship at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Shelbyville, TN. For the past eight years, this annual scholarship—created in memory of JC Gordon, one of the founding members of the FCM Board—has provided $500 to 15 students in the Machine Tool Technology program to help them purchase the tools and materials needed to succeed after graduation. JC Gordon had a deep passion for student development across all areas of education, especially for those pursuing technical training. Through his company, WEGO Precision Machine, Gordon offered internship opportunities to TCAT students, helping them gain hands-on experience in the field. His commitment to education lives on through this scholarship, continuing his legacy of support for technical students. Members of the FCM Cares Board had the privilege of meeting five of the scholarship recipients and hearing firsthand how these resources will help them launch their careers. This is what FCM Cares is all about: supporting education, building futures, and honoring a legacy.
Liberty’s Station
Liberty’s Station is a community-funded café and event space in Murfreesboro, TN, dedicated to empowering individuals with employment barriers—particularly those with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities—through paid job training and skill development. FCM's very own Kele Cuddy from the Appraisal Desk reached out to FCM Cares in support of her daughter, Gracie’s, Harvest Hope Fundraiser for Liberty’s Station. Gracie is currently one of the Liberty’s Station interns and with FCM Cares' support was awarded the top earner for the fundraiser. This support will assist the interns with real work experience that will transition into long-term community employment. Hearing firsthand how these resources will help them launch their careers reinforced the importance of this work. This is what FCM Cares is all about: supporting education, building futures, and honoring a legacy.
Women & Children
The Women and Children Pillar supports initiatives that uplift and protect families through partnerships, donations, and community-driven programs. From meeting essential needs to supporting organizations focused on safety, education, and opportunity, this pillar is dedicated to creating positive, lasting impact for women and children in the communities we serve.
Brave Run
FCM Cares completed its second year as a sponsor of the Blakelyn Foundation’s Brave Run, a superhero-themed 5K event dedicated to supporting parents who have demonstrated remarkable courage in the face of child loss. Held this August at Sharp Springs Park in Smyrna, TN, the race brought together community members to raise vital funds for families coping with the loss of an infant due to stillbirth.
Representing FCM/AMB at the event were Cara Pryor, Kristin Shelton, Amber McCord, Jessica Rowlett, and Tricia Pohlman, who participated in the walk, while Susan Ray cheered them on from the sidelines. All proceeds from the Brave Run help mothers and fathers with medical and funeral expenses during their time of need.
Hunger Fight
FCM Cares was proud to support Florida Loan Originator, Chuck Rolling, in his efforts to fight childhood hunger through a donation to Hunger Fight, an organization dedicated to providing meals and books to school-age children and daycares in need.
Chuck served alongside his family in August, helping box meals and sort food for distribution. During the event, there were 145,000 meals packed. He’s committed to making an even greater impact by donating to the cause and inviting FCM Cares to join him in matching his contribution. We’re honored to stand behind Chuck and Hunger Fight in this meaningful mission to nourish minds and bodies.
Boys & Girls Club Stake and Burger
Members of the FCM Cares Board as well as FCM employees had a wonderful time attending the Boys & Girls Club annual Stake and Burger event. It was a great night filled with delicious food, meaningful conversations and a shared commitment to supporting youth in the community. The highlight of the night was a fantastic performance by Cedric the Entertainer, who had the entire room laughing and engaged. The night was a huge success, raising over $200,000 for the local Boys & Girls Club of Rutherford County.
Wine Around The Square
FCM Cares was proud to sponsor Wine Around the Square in Murfreesboro, TN. It was a wonderful evening that brought together local businesses and community members to raise funds for breast cancer awareness, research, and patient care. The proceeds from the event support the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation’s Power of Pink Fund, which provides mammograms and diagnostic testing for uninsured and underinsured women in Rutherford County.
The 2025 Boro Baking Bash: The Sweet Addiction Bake Off Battle
FCM Cares was privileged to sponsor the 2025 Boro Baking Bash: The Sweet Addiction Bake Off Battle. Samantha Meyer, Retta Gardner, Laura Wade, and Tricia Pohlman enjoyed a phenomenal meal and desserts prepared by program participants working alongside local celebrity chefs—including Alex Belew, winner of season 21 of Hell’s Kitchen. There was a silent auction and live music – including a special performance from Buddy Jewell, the first winner of the reality competitionNashville Star that aired in the early 2000s. For many, the star of the show was the brave woman who gave her firsthand testimony of the impact The Sweet Addition has made in her life. With the support of Robin Housch, founder of The Sweet Addiction, she has courageously transformed her future by overcoming a drug addiction and earning back custody of her children. The event raised nearly $10,000 which will help expand The Sweet Addiction’s job readiness programs, life skills training, and provide for safe housing; empowering women to reclaim their futures and build lasting independence.
Casa Red Shoe Social
FCM Cares was grateful to sponsor the 2025 Red Shoe Social, an annual event supporting CASA of Rutherford County. This sponsorship was requested by Murfreesboro Loan Originator Brianna Gronbach, who works closely with several members of CASA’s board and is passionate about their mission.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) plays a vital role in the community by advocating for children facing abuse, neglect, or dependency. Their work aligns closely with two of FCM Cares’ core pillars: supporting women and children and housing. CASA serves nearly 300 foster children in Rutherford County, helping ensure each child’s right to a safe and loving home.
The Red Shoe Social was a beautiful evening filled with purpose, raising awareness and funds for these vulnerable children. We’re proud to stand with CASA and grateful to everyone who came out to support this impactful cause.
Make-A-Wish Heroes vs. Villains Fundraiser
In July 2025, five teams came together to support Make-A-Wish, raising $8,596. With the FCM Cares match, a total of $16,500 was donated to Make-A-Wish chapters across the U.S. Donations from this campaign went to support four different Make-A-Wish chapters. This includes Make-A-Wish Georgia, Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina, Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, and Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee.
Team results:
• Lady Heartline (Amber McCord) – $4,045 (Top Fundraiser)
• Dollar Doom (Scott Matuk) – $1,550
• Deal Breaker (Brad Cooke) – $1,108
• Byteknight (Danny Baute) – $980
• The Crimson Cause (Bret Head) – $913
Congratulations to Lady Heartline for leading the campaign. Deal Breaker, Brad Cooke, took on the Ice Bucket Challenge after finishing with the fewest donations on the final day.
Thank you to everyone who participated and donated. This campaign was especially meaningful as we heard personal Make-A-Wish stories from Laura Epling and Darnell Gazzolo, reminding us of the real impact behind our efforts.
Jeremiah’s Promise Holly Jolly Showcase
Jeremiah’s Promise is a parent-founded, parent-governed life program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities based in Murfreesboro, TN. Their mission is to provide a safe, loving, Christ-centered environment that empowers participants—known as “Pals”—to reach their full God-given potential through personalized support, educational experiences, and community service, while fostering independence, dignity, and choice. In December, they hosted their first Holly Jolly Showcase, where the Pals shared their talents in singing, acting and dancing, which got everyone into the holiday spirit. Members of the FCM Cares board were delighted to experience this uplifting celebration.
Exceptional Connections International
In September, Gwen Chambers—Loan Originator at Mortgage Boutique—joined family and friends to participate in the Exceptional Connections International 5K and Fun Run held in Memphis, TN. Gwen’s team, Carson’s Crew, brought together 14 enthusiastic members and was honored with the Most Team Spirit award!
Gwen’s grandson, Carson, was born 11 weeks prematurely and has been deaf since birth. While Carson now has a cochlear implant, he is still mostly non-verbal. Exceptional Connections International is dedicated to celebrating and empowering individuals with disabilities and their families. The organization’s efforts focus on supporting children like Carson worldwide who need a little extra help.
Housing
The Housing Pillar supports initiatives that promote stability and safe housing through partnerships, fundraising events, and volunteer opportunities. By working with organizations focused on housing access and sustainability, this pillar helps strengthen communities and create pathways to secure, stable living environments.
Habitat for Humanity Homeownership Month
As part of FCM’s ongoing commitment to community impact, FCM Cares proudly donated $1,000 to five Habitat for Humanity chapters across the country. Local Loan Originators had the opportunity to personally present the checks, fostering new relationships and strengthening ties within their communities. The supported chapters include:
· Habitat for Humanity Greater Cincinnati - Ohio
· Habitat for Humanity DuPage and Chicago – Illinois
· Habitat for Humanity Newnan-Coweta - Georgia
· Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut - Connecticut
· Habitat for Humanity of South County – Massachusetts
These contributions will help further Habitat’s mission of building safe, affordable housing for families in need. We’re honored to support their incredible work and look forward to continued partnership.
Habitat for Humanity Cookin’ To Build
FCM Cares was honored to participate in the 18th Annual Cookin’ to Build event, hosted by Rutherford Area Habitat for Humanity in Murfreesboro, TN! This beloved tradition brings the community together every year to help advance Habitat’s mission of providing affordable housing for low-to-moderate income families. Tricia Pohlman cooked eight gallons of her traditional chili and with the help of Samantha Meyer, Retta Gardner, Laura Wade, and Carrie Smotherman they served chili to many of the 900 people in attendance. Their dedication and teamwork truly exemplified the spirit of giving back to the community.
Groovin' In The Boro
FCM Cares was thrilled to sponsor a table at one of our favorite local events—Groovin’ in the Boro 2025! Members of the AMB team were able to attend this joy-filled evening of music, community, and giving back, featuring a fantastic performance by country legend, Collin Raye. From “That’s My Story” to “One Boy, One Girl,” the crowd sang along to every hit. The evening also spotlighted the incredible work of The Journey Home, a local nonprofit helping individuals overcome homelessness and hardship. They also shared stories of the impact Journey Home has had on local families as well as celebrating the opening of their new facility, which offers job support, housing assistance, life skills training, health and wellness services, and spiritual encouragement—all rooted in hope and faith.
Parker Task Force
The Parker Task Force, a local nonprofit in Parker, Colorado, is dedicated to homelessness prevention and food assistance in their local communities. FCM Cares Board Member, Marco Montano, is an active volunteer with the organization and requested FCM Cares’ support for their Back-to-School needs.
Founded in 1987, Parker Task Force is a 100% volunteer-run agency that provides food, limited financial assistance, and personalized support to individuals and families facing crisis. Their work directly aligns with FCM Cares’ housing pillar, helping prevent eviction and utility shut offs while guiding clients toward self-sufficiency.
Veterans
The Veterans Pillar honors and supports those who have served through partnerships, fundraising efforts, and targeted programs. By working alongside organizations dedicated to veteran well-being, this pillar helps provide critical resources, services, and support to veterans and their families.
Thin Blue Ride
FCM Cares demonstrated its commitment to giving back to our community by matching the funds raised by Ed Sullivan, Boston Branch Manager, for the Thin Blue Ride charity hockey game in Worcester, MA. The Worcester Fire and Police Departments faced off in spirited competition to support the cause. The proceeds from the event were donated to Thin Blue Ride, a nonprofit that supports military members and first responders battling cancer.
Veteran Impact Event
FCM Cares was privileged to sponsor the 8th Annual Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans Impact Celebration, hosted by Middle Tennessee State University. Ohio Loan Originator, Ashok Ghildyal and Chief Risk Officer, Samantha Meyer represented FCM/FCM Cares at this powerful event, which celebrates the work of the MTSU Veterans and Family Center—a program that supports over 1,000 veterans and their families.
Lieutenant General Keith Huber, Senior Advisor of the Center, shared a sentiment that resonated deeply: “We don’t talk about it—we just take care of things.” Over the past eight years, the Center has lived up to that promise, providing unwavering support and resources to those who’ve served.
Cincinnati And Indianapolis Honor Flight Breakfasts
In May, FCM Cares had the privilege of supporting our nation’s heroes through Honor Flight events in Cincinnati and Indianapolis. FCM Cares proudly sponsored and served breakfast for Veterans and their companions, offering a heartfelt send-off before their day of remembrance. Thank you to Ashok Ghildyal, Loan Originator in Cincinnati and Laura Epling, Legal Coordinator in Indianapolis, who led the cause by coordinating with their local Honor Flight chapters. We appreciate Tricia Pohlman, Kim Perry, Meredith Ziegenhagel, Tom Garrison, and all the volunteers who made the morning memorable. These events were powerful reminders of the lasting impact we can make when we come together with purpose to honor those who have served.
Tennessee State Veterans Home Donations
In November, Keith Canter, Retta Gardner, and Tricia Pohlman enjoyed a heartfelt visit to the Tennessee State Veterans Home in Murfreesboro, TN. They brought snacks and games as a small gesture of appreciation for the Veterans’ dedicated service. However, the real gift was received by Keith, Retta, and Tricia as they listened to the Veterans’ inspiring stories and treasured memories, leaving them deeply moved and grateful for the experience.
More Moments of Impact
The impact stories shown above are just a glimpse of the incredible work being done through FCM Cares. Click below to view even more photos from our fundraising events, volunteer efforts, and community outreach initiatives.
Tyler Morrissey Memorial Golf Tournament
The 12th annual FCM Cares Tyler Morrissey Golf Tournament was a tremendous success, hosted for the first time at Old Fort Golf Course. The new venue brought fresh energy to the event and was warmly received by all who attended.
Thanks to the generosity of our many sponsors of TMO, we raised just under $60,000 to directly support our local community initiatives. These funds will help continue making a meaningful impact in the areas of housing, women & children, veteran support, and education. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the day so memorable. Your support fuels our mission to care for our community—one swing at a time!
If you are interested in participating in an upcoming Tyler Morrissey Memorial Golf Tournament as a player, sponsor, or community partner, we would love to have you join us each fall as we continue honoring Tyler’s legacy through service and giving back.
By donating to FCM Cares, you are supporting the vital work we do in communities around the nation, providing crucial support to those in need under our four pillars: Education, Women & Children, Housing, and Veterans. Your contribution helps to provide educational support for extended learning opportunities, resources for women and children facing undue circumstances, support for the construction of homes, furnishing homes and fair housing, support for Veterans’ wellness, transition to civilian life, and aid for military families in need. With your donation, we can continue to make a meaningful and long-lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
