Fisher House Foundation Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Fisher House Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1990 by philanthropists Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher. The Foundation's mission is to provide free, temporary lodging for military and veteran families while their loved ones receive medical care at military and Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers. These "comfort homes" are strategically located on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers worldwide, ensuring families can stay close to their hospitalized members during critical times.

Mission and Vision

The Foundation's mission is to ensure that military and veteran families have a place to stay at no cost while their loved ones are receiving medical treatment. Its vision is to provide a supportive environment that fosters healing and comfort for families during medical crises.

Primary Area of Focus

The primary focus of the Fisher House Foundation is to construct and operate Fisher Houses—comfort homes that offer free lodging to military and veteran families. Additionally, the Foundation manages programs such as Hero Miles, Hotels for Heroes, and scholarship funds for military children and spouses.

Industry Significance

The Fisher House Foundation plays a pivotal role in the non-profit sector, particularly within the military and veteran support community. By providing free lodging and support services, the Foundation alleviates the financial burden on families and ensures they can be present for their loved ones during medical treatments. Its operations have saved military and veteran families an estimated $650 million in lodging and transportation costs since inception.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Expansion of Fisher Houses: Increase the number of Fisher Houses to meet the growing demand for family lodging near medical centers.

Program Enhancement: Enhance programs like Hero Miles and Hotels for Heroes to provide comprehensive support to military and veteran families.

Community Engagement: Strengthen partnerships with communities and organizations to support the Foundation's mission.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Temporary Lodging: Providing free, temporary lodging for families of patients receiving medical care at military and VA medical centers.

Support Programs: Managing programs that offer additional support, such as travel assistance and scholarships for military families.

Key Technologies Utilized

Data Management Systems: Utilizing advanced data management systems to coordinate lodging availability and family services efficiently.

Communication Platforms: Employing secure communication platforms to maintain contact with families and medical centers.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Military and Veteran Families: Serving families of active-duty military personnel and veterans who require medical care away from home.

Medical Centers: Collaborating with military and VA medical centers to identify locations for new Fisher Houses.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

The Fisher House Foundation is funded through private donations, corporate partnerships, and fundraising events. Notably, in March 2024, Beazer Homes and its partners donated $1.9 million to the Foundation, marking a significant contribution to its mission.

Total Funds Raised

While specific total funds raised figures are not publicly disclosed, the Foundation has received substantial support from various donors and partners over the years.

Notable Investors

The Foundation has garnered support from numerous individuals, corporations, and organizations committed to supporting military and veteran families. For instance, Beazer Homes and its partners have been significant contributors.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds raised are primarily utilized for the construction and operation of Fisher Houses, as well as supporting programs like Hero Miles, Hotels for Heroes, and scholarship funds for military families.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

New Fisher Houses: The Foundation is continually identifying locations for new Fisher Houses to meet the needs of military and veteran families.

Stages of Development

Planning and Construction: Once a location is identified, the Foundation proceeds with planning and construction phases, often in collaboration with local communities and organizations.

Target Conditions

Medical Treatment Proximity: Fisher Houses are strategically located near military and VA medical centers to provide convenient lodging for families.

Relevant Timelines

Ongoing Projects: The Foundation is actively working on expanding its network of Fisher Houses, with new projects in various stages of development.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Lodging Management Systems: Developed to efficiently manage room availability and coordinate with medical centers.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data Analytics: Utilized to assess the needs of military and veteran families and optimize the placement of new Fisher Houses.

Leadership Team

Ken Fisher

Position: Chairman and CEO

Professional Background: Ken Fisher has been leading the Fisher House Foundation, overseeing its growth and operations.

Key Contributions: Under his leadership, the Foundation has expanded its network of Fisher Houses and enhanced support programs for military and veteran families.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The non-profit sector focused on military and veteran support is characterized by a strong community of organizations dedicated to assisting service members and their families. The demand for services like those provided by the Fisher House Foundation continues to grow, driven by the ongoing needs of military and veteran families.

Competitor Analysis

Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund: Provides support to military personnel and their families, including building centers for the treatment of combat trauma.

Wounded Warrior Project: Offers a variety of programs and services to support wounded veterans.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The Fisher House Foundation collaborates with various organizations, including corporate partners like Beazer Homes, to support its mission. Additionally, the Foundation partners with military and VA medical centers to identify locations for new Fisher Houses.

Operational Insights

The Foundation's unique model of constructing and operating Fisher Houses, which are then gifted to the Department of Defense and VA, allows for seamless integration into military and VA medical facilities, ensuring efficient operations and support for families.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The Foundation aims to continue expanding its network of Fisher Houses to meet the increasing needs of military and veteran families. Future directions include enhancing existing programs, exploring new partnerships, and leveraging technology to improve services.