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
$1M GIFT FROM DAVE MATTHEWS BAND FUELS OPPORTUNITY
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 recoverable grant, 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.
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.”
SHARING KNOWLEDGE AT THE GLOBAL HOMEBOY NETWORK GATHERING
Fountain Fund team members represent in LA!
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
$5 million in lending … it’s just the beginning!
Boston
CLIENT PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Ted Connelly
Embracing the future with hope and determination.
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 (front center) celebrates with fellow MyTERN graduates. Congratulations Class of 2025. You inspire.
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
MyTERN at Tufts
Academic empowerment at Tufts’ MyTERN program helps returning citizens thrive!
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 to care for your car? Call 434.235.3932..
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
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 “Charbey” 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… Charbey 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 was overwhelming. Recalls Charbey, “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 stay afloat.
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!
Charbey 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, Charbey is focused on creating a better life for her family. She dreams of owning property, becoming a landlord, 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.”
Charbey 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.
CVILLE
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
Karen Grant
Whenever the Fountain Fund approves a loan, one of our greatest hopes is that it will create upward economic mobility and new opportunities – now and in the future – for the individuals we serve.
Has Karen Grant’s life trajectory been improved because of her car loan? She answers with an unequivocal and enthusiastic, “Yes! One hundred percent!!!” She adds, “The loan is helping me follow-through on my personal intentions, one of which is building credit. My credit had fallen off for nearly eight years. Today, I’m turning that all around.”
Karen’s new car has also helped her elevate in her role as project coordinator with Recovery Corps at REAL LIFE. Each day, she shares her hard-earned wisdom with others, many of whom have been previously incarcerated and are struggling to overcome substance use and mental health disorders. Karen works with 80+ clients: leading support groups, helping individuals navigate programs, conducting employment follow-ups, and staying connected with alumni to make sure they are staying true to their recovery.
When asked to describe three of the most important tools to success on her own journey, Karen pauses for a moment to reflect and then shares: Accountability. Responsibility. Consistency.
She remarks, “One of the things that often comes with addiction is that there are no borders. No boundaries. No rules.” By using these tools as building blocks for a new life one begins to break the chain and set the stage for healing. Karen has over three and a half years of sobriety. Recovery, she will tell you, starts with small steps that lead to big change.
Karen Grant supports others on their recovery journey. An auto loan from the Fountain Fund is helping her thrive… personally and professionally!
RICHMOND FACTS
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
97% “Achieved better financial stability.”
100% “Achieved primary loan goal.”
ACTIVE LOAN PORTFOLIO
As of February 28, 2025, Richmond’s active loan portfolio included 76 loans valued at nearly $359,164!
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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“The whole process was very easy from start to finish. And today I can proudly say that my life is only going forward from here. … If you ever need anything, I suggest you reach out to the Fountain Fund. They’re nothing but good people.
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“Everything with the Fountain Fund was smooth. Thomas’ communication was great. He was precise and made everything clear.”
PROGRAM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
A Better Day Than Yesterday
Tom Mundy, Richmond Site Director, is always looking for positive and effective ways to network with other reentry agencies. Today, we shine a light on the important work being done by A Better Day Than Yesterday. Their mission is to educate, empower, and equip at-risk families with the skills to overcome adversities caused by incarceration, divorce, and military deployment. As shared on their website, an astounding “103,000 Virginia children will have had a parent behind bars during their youth.”
This nonprofit offers a variety of K-12 youth programs whose goal is to, “reduce the pain and stigma experienced by children, improve communications between the child and the incarcerated parent(s), and make visitations more child-friendly and less traumatic.” They also offer an array of adult programs that focus on strengthening basic literacy skills which are essential for securing a job and reducing the likelihood of recidivism after imprisonment.
CELEBRATING OUR NEW HOME
IN SHOCKOE SLIP
Our new space is conveniently located near bus lines in the heart of downtown Richmond. Interested in applying for a loan, volunteering or becoming a supporter?
Call 804-214-7151 to learn more.
Site Director Tom Mundy congratulates a Client Partner on his loan closing at the Fountain Fund’s new office in Shockoe Slip.
