Not content to merely close loans quickly, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation also works tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the help they need just as swiftly. A mortgage lender with locations across the United States, including two offices in Georgetown, Fairway is deeply committed to supporting veterans through its nonprofit, American Warrior Initiative. AWI has spearheaded hundreds of philanthropic initiatives for military heroes across the country, including gifting service dogs, business grants, home upgrades, and mortgage-free housing.
The movement to give back began in 2011, and became a non-profit in 2014, when Louise Thaxton (right), one of Fairway’s regional managers, created a non-profit focusing on helping veterans, active duty military, and first responders in need. The initiative has since provided 370 service dogs nationwide. Each service dog costs $15,000, and Fairway often collaborates with local businesses and communities to raise the necessary funds. These service animals are trained to meet various needs, such as PTSD, physical disabilities, and severe depression — providing essential support and significantly improving the quality of life for veterans.
One of these notable donations was for an Army veteran who served for 13 years and lost his leg to a landmine, and later served 21 years in law enforcement. Another moving story involves a female veteran who teared up after learning she would finally receive a service dog after being on the waitlist for three years. Another recipient, a Navy combat veteran who lost his hearing in combat, was grateful to be given a service dog who now serves as his “ears.”
GIVING BACK
To be eligible for a service dog, veteran applicants must have been honorably discharged and have a combat or service-related disability or financial need for a service dog. With many service dog organizations, there is a long waitlist, underscoring the high demand and crucial need for support. To help more veterans receive a service dog as soon as possible, Fairway is hosting its fourth annual AWI Freedom Run fundraiser on Veterans Day, November 11. During the virtual 5K race, participants can choose where to run or walk, be it their favorite nature trail or even on a treadmill or elliptical machine at home or the gym.
“I personally am very passionate about serving those who have served,” says Shelley Rodocker, a Georgetown-based Fairway loan officer who donates a portion of her paycheck to AWI. “Those who have served our country have sacrificed something that I’ll never be called on to do. American Warrior Initiative is a very tangible way that we as a company can do what we can to give back to those who have given so much to us.”
Click the links to learn more about American Warrior Initiative and the AWI Freedom Run.