Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Di Novo. Them and their team share their story with us below:
The Yard Foundation started as a fire service training Facebook group. It grew to a community of over 42,000 members. Then a firefighter died in the line of duty, and John (the founder and CEO of The Yard Foundation) asked the community to pitch in a few bucks to send to the widow.
Within a few hours, over $20,000 was raised. John’s personal accountant recommended he incorporates the group to avoid any issues with that kind of money passing through a personal bank account. So, that’s what he did. Unfortunately, the recipients of any income were being taxed for receiving corporate income. That’s when The Yard Foundation was formed as a 501(c)(3).
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has been a definite learning curve. Fortunately, we have a great team. John has been able to lay the groundwork to create a community of some of the most caring and wonderful people who are always willing to help out. Amy has years of experience in shipping and customer service. Erin has a business background which makes her perfect for her role as director of philanthropy. And, Tony has a background in public relations.
We are learning how to navigate the world of non-profits, and we have some great mentors we can rely on for advice and guidance.
We’ve been impressed with The Yard Foundation, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Yard Foundation is made up of four friends. John and Tony started out as firefighters together for the same fire department. Erin is John’s little sister. And, Amy is the wife of a firefighter who works with John.
We are known for our two mottos, “It feels good to do good,” and, “Why can’t every Tuesday be Giving Tuesday?” Our monthly membership, The Yard Card, provides the funding for us to make a charitable donation every Tuesday. We prioritize organizations for women’s health, childhood cancer, and firefighter injury and illness. In 2022 we have donated over $170,000.
The most important thing for us is for people to know we will always be transparent with our donors. We are so humbled that people trust us to do the right thing with their hard-earned money, and we want them to know precisely where it’s going. We update our website every week with our Giving Tuesday donations.
Pricing:
- $33/month to become a Yard Card Member. Everyone gets a personalized metal membership card and a bunch of other swag.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theyardfoundation.org
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/theyardfoundation
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/theyardfoundation
