why uncommon grit foundation?
about us
We have a soft spot and a deep respect for military, first responders, and the family members who stand beside them. These are the people who run toward danger, toward the crisis, toward those who need help. Our focus is on raising awareness, increasing community support, and finding ways we can assist those who answer the call, keep us safe, and provide us the freedoms we enjoy.
how we assist
who we support
Vetted Veteran and First Responder Organizations
Many excellent nonprofit organizations exist with established programs to support military and first responders. These nonprofits are always in need of funding and sometimes the people they need to reach just don’t know about them. Uncommon Grit Foundation uses its network of contacts and funding to support other vetted 501(c)(3) organizations financially, to raise awareness for them, and to connect military and first responders and their families to the nonprofits that can most enrich their lives.
Individuals and Families
Uncommon Grit Foundation assists qualified families or individuals directly to alleviate the financial burden of things like funeral costs, travel to funerals, mental health costs, and healthcare bills.
why support Uncommon grit foundation?
our roots run deep
With our connections in the military, experience in the nonprofit world, and a strong network of patriots, we have an ear to the ground for where assistance may be needed most. True to our name, we are uncommon in our approach of remaining flexible to assist where we can do the most with what we have.
Ready to join us?
Learn more about how you can lend support and about “taking the oath.”
WHO WE ARE
board of directors
DARREN MCBURNETT “MCB,” US NAVY SEAL, RET.
Co-Founder and Vice President. McB is the frontman of the foundation, drawing on his experience as a Navy SEAL, along with his network of connections through fundraising and public speaking, to spread awareness and bring new support to Uncommon Grit Foundation. Learn more about McB at dmcburnett.com.
KIM MCBURNETT
Co-Founder and President. Kim does much of the daily work for Uncommon Grit Foundation—event planning, sponsor relations, outgoing grants, communication, branding, and accounting. Her background is in design, but she’s been a business owner since 2004 and loves being involved in all aspects of running the foundation.
RAMONA MILLER
Director. President and administrative dyad at Ascension Medical Group St. John; Air National Guard, Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.). With her background in the military, nursing, and leadership, Ramona offers perspective, insight, and guidance to Uncommon Grit Foundation, keeping it grounded and focused.
Jason Fowler
Director. Physician assistant and entrepreneur driven by a deep sense of patriotism and respect for our nation's warriors. Jason’s background in event planning and fundraising are helping Uncommon Grit Foundation to expand its reach and garner new support.
John wingfield
Director. Commercial lender and vice president of business banking at Centier Bank in South Bend, Indiana. John studied history at Indiana University before joining the U.S. Coast Guard where he spent 10 years as a coxswain, doing search and rescue and law enforcement. He is an avid historian and collector, focusing on Global War on Terror. His network of veterans expands the foundation’s visibility and exposure to veteran needs, while his business and banking experience helps the foundation navigate the intricacies of operating as a not-for-profit.