THE NEWSLETTER
FALL 2025: COURAGE
For inspiring stories of courage, read on! Each individual and collective act of bravery transforms our world.
NEWS FROM HQ
NEWS FROM OUR SITES
A CATALYTIC GIFT FROM DAVE MATTHEWS BAND IS ROCKET FUEL FOR GOODNESS
The Bama Works Fund of Dave Matthews Band recently announced a catalytic, $1 million grant in support of our agency. A quarter of this generous, 5-year donation will support operations, while the remaining $750,000 will be dedicated to the Charlottesville loan fund. Thanks to our loan fund’s average recycle rate of 80% every four years, this gift will enable an astonishing $2.5 million in lending over the next 20 years! Most importantly, their giving will bring upward economic opportunity to 500+ returning citizens who call Charlottesville home.
“Bama Works has already improved the lives of countless people,” says Erika Viccellio, Fountain Fund executive director. “We are grateful for this investment, which creates opportunities that will strengthen our community for many years to come.”
FOUNTAIN FUND FACTS
Client Partner Survey shines a light on success.
CLIENT PARTNERS COME FIRST
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97% “Felt supported by our team.”
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97% “Were not reincarcerated.”
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96% “Were better able to support their families.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
99% indicated that their loan relieved an immediate burden, helped them stabilize and/or set them up for success.
TOP THREE LOAN GOALS
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Secure transportation
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Start or expand a business
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Secure housing
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“I was able to secure the funds to put a roof over my head, this took away the stress from just coming back into society … The Fountain Fund has opened my eyes to a slew of resources that I never knew existed for felons and individuals like myself who are readjusting to life after incarceration.”
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“The Fountain Fund literally was a miracle for my life, and the process was prompt and painless."
AGENCY LENDING IMPACT
As of October 31, 2025, our active loan portfolio across all markets included 495 loans valued at nearly $2,330,022. Since 2017, 849 client partners have received $5,104,730 in loans, with $2,376,604 being recycled back into the loan fund.
SHARING KNOWLEDGE AT THE GLOBAL HOMEBOY NETWORK GATHERING
In late summer, a generous donor sponsored two Fountain Fund team members’ attendance at the 2025 Global Homeboy Network Gathering. This annual conference brings people together from across the United States and around the world to share knowledge and explore ways that elements of the Homeboy Industries model might strengthen their own agency’s impact.
Event attendees traveled from 7 nations, 37 states and 101 cities! An engaging array of breakout sessions and compelling speakers offered vital reminders of the power of empathy in our shared work to address social inequity and injustice. Homeboy Industries is the largest gang rehabilitation and reentry program in the world.
Homeboy Dre Comers with team members Tom Mundy (far left), Martize Tolbert (far right) and compassionate supporter Chris Little (right center).
FOUNTAIN FUND CELEBRATES $5M IN LENDING
We are excited to share that The Fountain Fund recently surpassed $5 million in total lending! This marks a pivotal step forward in fulfilling our agency’s mission of increasing economic opportunities for formerly incarcerated people to improve their lives and remain in their communities.
Shares Tim Heaphy, Founder, “When we started, we had a simple mission - help returning citizens achieve their full potential by providing access to capital. We’ve learned over time that being given a loan and engaging in our process often changes how our Client Partners see themselves, which is truly inspirational. While this is an encouraging milestone, we have so much left to do - new frontiers to enter, and more lives to change. We look forward to the next chapter of our evolution.”
Boston
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Todd Connelly
Todd Connelly’s story is one of remarkable resilience. After spending nearly a decade incarcerated, Todd returned home determined to forge a new path. Unlike his previous release, which was marked by rapid decisions and setbacks, this time Todd chose to move slowly and deliberately.
One of the most significant turning points for Todd was his decision to seek help through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Stepping into his first meeting, he met a mentor who would become a close friend and sponsor. This relationship provided Todd not only with practical assistance—such as helping him with basic necessities like food and clothing when he had nothing—but also with emotional support and encouragement. Todd recalls, “I had lost everything. Everything. … For the first time in my life, I felt like someone cared about me."
Early on, Todd also found support through MyTERN, a year-long, trauma informed reentry program at Tufts University that helped him earn college credits and introduced him to new opportunities. It was through this experience that he learned about The Fountain Fund.
He shares, “Your loan program was a game changer!” With the financial support to reinstate his driver’s license, he gained independence and the ability to provide for his family and contribute to his community. This experience fostered a newfound sense of courage and confidence, empowering Todd to become a source of support for others. His dedication was recently celebrated at Riverside Community Care where Todd was honored as a 2025 CARE Award recipient for his compassionate work as a recovery coach.
When reflecting upon his transformation over the past year, Todd shares, “It’s given me myself back – like this is who I was always supposed to be. It’s allowed me to let people love me. It’s allowed me to have peace.
Todd Connelly is deeply devoted to his new family. Their love and support have been instrumental to his recovery and success.
BOSTON FACTS
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“It was a small loan, but the staff really helped me feel dignity and respect. They are the best.”
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“I was able to start my business, generate income, and support myself and my family.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
100% “Achieved better financial stability.”
100% “Better able to take care of themselves.”
100% “Have not been reincarcerated.”
TOTAL LENDING
As of October 31, 2025, Boston’s total lending included 32 loans valued at $104,719.
Fountain Fund Client Partner Todd Connelly (far left) celebrates with fellow MyTERN graduates. Congratulations Class of 2025. You inspire.
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
MyTERN at Tufts
MyTERN at Tufts University Prison Initiative of Tisch College (TUPIT) is a dynamic program that supports returning citizens – academically, emotionally & socially – as they rebuild their lives.
Justice-impacted students take classes alongside Tufts undergraduates, nurturing community while also building practical skills for future success. Their curriculum combines Tufts coursework with wraparound support in housing, employment, technology, financial literacy, and social-emotional well-being.
Since launching in 2020, more than 83 students have graduated from the program which offers learning opportunities both behind the wall and after release. Engaging courses cover topics such as: The Literatures of Justice, Technology for Civic Impact, Personalized Financial Empowerment & Racial Justice, and Storytelling & Podcasting for Social Change.
Hilary Binda, Executive Director and Founder, emphasizes that the student-driven nature of their programming is paramount to its success, and her devotion to the mission is evident in her compassionate eyes. She shares, “One of the things that people most value about the program is the sense of ongoing community and connection.” The camaraderie doesn’t end after graduation.
This is because more than half of their students are referred by alumni, fostering a growing peer network. The MyTERN Fellows Program allows graduates to become mentors, ensuring that new students have ongoing support – from those who have been there and done that! Alumni are not only advancing in their personal careers, they are also actively hiring and supporting each other, creating an inspiring ripple effect throughout Massachusetts and beyond.
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Jonathan Metcalf
When you look up “Turn a Wrench” in the Urban Dictionary, you might just find Jonathan Metcalf’s name… because he’s the very definition of a mechanic who is hands on, hard-working, and gets down to business when it comes to making cars hum.
Ever since returning home, his determination to build a fulfilling career as a mechanic has been reflected in his commitment to his craft and the creative ways he has overcome financial hurdles. Starting out, the cost of essential tools and training loomed large. The Fountain Fund became a lifeline, providing crucial loans that enabled him to purchase expensive equipment and grow his small business.
He shares, “From the moment they started helping me, the bad stuff just kind of faded out of my lifestyle completely. And that’s a big thing.” His experiences with the Fountain Fund staff, particularly Paul and Tez, nurtured his self-confidence, encouraged him to stay positive and inspired him to push through adversity.
With the successful repayment of each loan, Jonathan proved his reliability and steadily built a reputation for integrity and dedication. The support he received not only improved his business but also empowered him to give back to others, including work with United Way and Network2Work, helping clients with affordable repairs and installations.
“We all run into situations where we need something, it’s just that in certain fields, the way things are priced are just completely unrealistic and unreal.” He continues, “Most people can’t afford the bills to put in a motor or transmission. I can offer a solution to stuff like that. … Oftentimes it's that repair that’s going to allow someone to maintain their livelihood.”
Jonathan’s story is one of hope, resilience, and pay-it-forward generosity, illustrating how perseverance can transform not just one individual but entire communities.
Looking for a top-notch mechanic ?
Call Jonathan at 434.235.3932.
CVILLE
CHARLOTTESVILLE FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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98% “Felt supported by the Fountain Fund.”
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97% “Were able to better support their families.”
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97% “Felt empowered to overcome barriers.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of October 31, 2025, Charlottesville’s total lending included 566 loans valued at $2,436,515!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“Being stable allows me to continue to work and be productive within Charlottesville where I’ve now resided going on 10 years. I am super grateful to the whole team.”
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“Gave me a pathway to secure better career opportunities.”
GROWING STRONG
We’re excited to welcome Stephanie Conteh, Business Loan Administrator, to our Lending Team!
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Network2Work@PVCC is an integral partner in our efforts to support returning citizens. This workforce program connects job seekers in Charlottesville and the surrounding counties with the training and resources they need to secure and excel in meaningful employment. So when individuals approach The Fountain Fund for a loan, but are not yet employed, Network2Work is the first place we turn!
Their innovative program stands out by intentionally recruiting individuals facing economic insecurity through trusted community “Connectors.” This holistic approach ensures job seekers receive not just job placements, but the comprehensive support – such as childcare, transportation and access to training - needed to succeed. By developing strong relationships with regional employers and vouching for job-ready candidates, the program reduces hiring risks and improves outcomes for both job seekers and businesses. Referrals between our two agencies prepare Client Partners for success now and in the future.
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Charbaney Smith
Charbaney “Charba” Smith recently set out to pursue her longtime dream of attaining her high school diploma. In the first few moments of our interview, one thing became abundantly clear… Charba had faced unimaginable odds to get here.
In August 2005, when she was just a teen, her life took a devastating turn when Hurricane Katrina struck just days after the death of her mother. She lost absolutely everything.
And when the lingering, after-effects of the storm forced her to relocate to California, the upheaval and shattering grief were overwhelming. Recalls Charba, “That was one of the worst times in my life. I was still young, trying to cope with everything. You know what I’m saying? … It was just too much to take in at the time.” So she put school on hold and started working to survive.
Fast forward to 2025, when she found the strength to rekindle her academic dreams. With the help of a Fountain Fund loan, she enrolled in a program to earn her high school diploma. The process was not without obstacles: juggling work, family responsibilities as a mother of four boys, and managing her finances required grit and determination. Through financial literacy courses and careful planning, she gradually improved her credit and built the foundation for a more secure future. Her loan, she is proud to report, has already been repaid in full!
Charba emphasizes that learning about the importance of establishing credit has been one of the most valuable lessons she received. “Now I understand why it’s so important. I’m 38 and I never had a credit card in my name, because I used to be scared of it. I was afraid of debt. But I had to learn that even if you’re trying to get a house, or an apartment or a job, they all run credits on you…. Because they figure if you’re dedicated to paying off what you owe, then you’ll be dedicated to the work.”
Looking ahead, Charba is focused on creating a better life for her family. She dreams of owning property and building generational wealth for her children. While she still faces practical challenges—like needing a reliable car—she continues to approach each hurdle with optimism and resolve. “I know I’m strong. If I ain’t anything else, I’m definitely strong. I had to be. I had no other choice.”
Charba is a guiding light to those around her. She shares, “I want to bring something good to everyone I come across.”
NOLA
NEW ORLEANS FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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96% “Were better able to support family.”
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95% “Achieved improved financial stability.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of October 31, 2025, New Orlean’s total lending included 99 loans valued at $244,549!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“I was able to move out of an abusive situation immediately and now live independently.”
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“TFF restored my faith in people.”
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“Partnering with the Fountain Fund gave me the opportunity to regain financial stability and personal growth.”
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Operation Restoration
The Fountain Fund creates bridges to a wide array of reentry organizations in New Orleans. One agency that consistently inspires with their bold impact is Operation Restoration. Founded in 2016, this nonprofit works with women and girls impacted by incarceration in the hope that they will “recognize their full potential, restore their lives and discover new possibilities.” Check ‘em out! Be the change.
PHILADELPHIA CELEBRATES $1M IN LENDING WITH MR. VIV
In mid-November, client partners, program partners, Local Advisory Board members and enthusiastic supporters gathered at Hopeworks in Kensington to celebrate $1 million in lending in Philadelphia!
A highlight of the night came when Client Partner Anthoni Williams – also known as Mr. Viv – shared his life’s arc from returning citizen to successful entrepreneur. The V Shop provides custom embroidery and graphic logo design solutions that turn personal narratives and business messaging into wearable art. They’ve got all the flavors. Check ‘em out!
Fountain Fund Team Members Mike Butler, Dormen Lisby, Sr. and Stacey Torrence also had time at the mic where they opened up about their own courageous stories of transformation. Shared Stacey, “From someone who served three decades of a death by incarceration sentence, I know how it feels to have unfulfilled and unattainable dreams because you are invisible to financial institutions and the credit system. The Fountain Fund removes those barriers. Financial empowerment IS criminal justice reform.”
Client Partner Mr. Viv’s creative vision, business acumen and embroidery know-how get customers the look that pops!
PHILLY
At The Fountain Fund, we know it’s about the WE and not the ME. Here we are… bringing on the TEAM while sporting Mr. Viv’s embroidered jackets.
Strengths Unified in Diversity was shared as a memento to mark the occasion. The original artwork by Dormen Lisby, Sr. is 12’ x 47’ mural that appears in the PA Dept. of Corrections.
PHILADELPHIA FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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95% “Report having achieved their self-determined goals.”
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95% “Were not reincarcerated.”
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93% “Achieved better financial stability.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of October 31, 2025, Philadelphia’s total lending included 155 loans valued at $1,371,103.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“The Fountain Fund enabled me to secure housing for my family in a time where good housing was scarce and expensive and for that I am extremely grateful.”
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“The loan took a huge burden off me, which allowed me to concentrate on my family, job and community.”
GROWING STRONG
We’re excited to welcome Dormen Lisby, Sr., Client Partner Associate, to our Philadelphia team!
ADDRESSING THE BARRIERS TO FINANCIAL EQUITY – PROSPERITY NOW SUMMIT 2025
Earlier this fall, the 2025 Prosperity Now Summit brought together individuals from across the nation to “innovate, incubate, activate, and elevate new and existing systems-oriented solutions that address the root causes of economic barriers to opportunity.”
Mike Butler, Philadelphia Site Director, joined a panel discussion on expanding capital access and entrepreneurship for justice-impacted individuals. The conversation explored replicable lending models such as The Fountain Fund and advocacy for a more inclusive financial ecosystem, alongside leaders from CDFIs, entrepreneurship, and policy.
Shares Mike, “What continues to inspire me is watching people transform that initial spark of possibility into real progress. When someone pays off a loan or expands a business or shares how they have regained confidence in themselves, it reminds me why this work matters.”
Stacey Torrence, Erika Viccellio and Mike Butler attend this year’s 2025 Prosperity Now Summit in Washington DC.
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Sherry Burnett
There’s a painting of a vibrant tiger hanging on the wall behind Sherry Burnett when our interview gets underway. The tiger – a symbol of strength, bravery and independence – will reveal itself as an apt animal for the courageous life she is now living.
Sherry is a straight talker, and she openly admits that the months following incarceration were hard but transformative. Her journey towards a brighter future began when she devoted herself to recovery and took important steps to regain custody of her teenage son.
To make that dream a reality, she would need a stable place to call home as well as a deposit and first month's rent! That’s where The Fountain Fund stepped in, providing her with a $1,600 loan. These funds made it possible for her to secure her very first apartment. She glows in the retelling, “Getting my own place was huge. It gave me all types of confidence. It gave me a different type of self-worth.”
This foundation also set the stage for Sherry and her son to reunite. “I just remember the first time that I brought Dezmond to see the apartment… he was so excited. It was the beginning of a completely different type of happiness. A type of happiness that I’d never had.”
Months later, when her used car’s transmission failed, Sherry found herself in need once again. The Fountain Fund granted her a second loan of $800 for repairs. She has since repaid both loans in full, her credit score is rising, and the sense of accomplishment and gratitude she feels is immense.
Words of advice she would give to others? “Be willing to ask for help.” She chuckles, “People can’t help you with what you need unless you tell them!” She continues, “And stay in a grateful mind. Focus on what is right and keep positive people around you.”
Sherry is embracing her new life and is grateful to see her family flourishing.
RICHMOND FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
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100% “Report achieving their self-determined goals.”
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100% “Have hope for the future.”
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97% “Have an improved understanding of credit.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of October 31, 2025, Richmond’s total lending included 161 loans valued at $947,844!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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Gave me the confidence to trust in my ability to be the Man I was called to be. Which led to me be a pillar in my family and community.”
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“When I needed help the most, they were there for me. I am very blessed.”
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“I was able to boost my credit score to find better housing for my family.”
GROWING STRONG
We’re excited to welcome Amanda Spiller, Administrative Assistant & Outreach Specialist, to our Richmond team!
Impact 100 Richmond volunteer Rainey Niklawski celebrates our big win with John Carrington, Lorenzo Collins, Tom Mundy and Erika Viccellio.
IMPACT 100 RICHMOND SELECTS THE FOUNTAIN FUND AT THE 2025 BIG GIVE!
The Fountain Fund recently had the privilege of participating in 2025 Big Give, an annual event organized by Impact 100 Richmond. This volunteer-driven women’s philanthropy group selects finalists through an intensive vetting process which begins with a competitive grant cycle, followed by engaging site visits, and culminating with an exciting night where five nonprofits compete – Shark Tank style! Since 2009, they have contributed over $2 million to 37 nonprofits, supporting projects that create transformative change within the Richmond community.
Tom Mundy, Richmond Site Director, boldly represented our agency. His speech – which accentuated the powerful impact of our mission from his own lived-experience – was moving and profound. The evening’s highlight came when audience members voted for the nonprofit they believed deserved this year's $100,000 grant—and The Fountain Fund was the winner!
“The Fountain Fund invests holistically in improving the lives of the formerly incarcerated individuals, and keeping voices of those folks centered in their work,” shares Rainey Niklawski. Thank you Impact 100 Richmond. We are honored and elated by your belief in our mission.
RICHMOND LOCAL ADVISORY BOARD MAKES US STRONGER
We’re thrilled to announce the official launch of our Richmond Local Advisory Board! This dynamic group will help us tackle important programmatic and strategic decisions. Their unique perspectives – from Client Partner, to social activist, to philanthropist, to banker, to entrepreneur, to nonprofit executive, to finance expert - will prove invaluable as we grow. Each quarter, these individuals will offer guidance as we shape the future of financial stabilization for formerly incarcerated individuals in our community.
Richmond LAB: Tom Mundy, Chris Little, Kerry Day, Rodney Bosher, Leah Fremouw, Zenobia Bey and John Carrington. Not pictured: Kevin Hill.