Stable Road Foundation, established in 2017 by Ed Freedman, the founder and former chairman of Total Merchant Services, is a philanthropic organization dedicated to making a positive impact on communities worldwide. Freedman brings his passion for helping people to the foundation, aiming to empower individuals and communities to reach their fullest potential. He is an avid kitesurfer, cyclist, and yogi.
The Genesis of Stable Road Foundation
Ed Freedman’s inspiration for creating the Stable Road Foundation came from a desire to support children and families in achieving their dreams. Fueled by a commitment to creating positive change at home and abroad, he envisioned projects that would benefit communities in specific, concrete ways. The foundation’s motto, “Feel the impact,” reflects its mission to provide essential resources like power, clean water, and education to help communities thrive.
Diverse Offerings and Responsive Solutions
Stable Road Foundation provides tailored solutions to address community needs both at home and abroad. Through hands-on volunteering and financial support, the foundation collaborates with trusted partners with a proven track record of making a meaningful impact. Community responses over the years have shaped the foundation’s offerings, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and responsiveness to unique local needs.
Navigating Challenges and Building Partnerships
In the early days, Stable Road Foundation faced the challenge of addressing an overwhelming amount of global needs with limited resources. The key to overcoming this challenge has been the foundation’s strategic partnerships with local organizations that provide on-the-ground expertise in addressing local challenges. These partnerships unlock enormous amounts of expertise, resources, and community support, significantly expanding the foundation’s impact.
Cultivating a Strong Work Culture and Ethical Values
The foundation’s work culture is built on the principles of making long-term commitments to partners and the communities they serve. Stability and consistency are core values, and the foundation takes a proactive, hands-on role in its projects and keeps its commitments for the long haul. The team at Stable Road Foundation believes in putting values into action, getting involved, and making a tangible difference.
Defining Success and Consistency in Values
Ed Freedman defines success as helping individuals reach their maximum potential in life. While recognizing that success varies from community to community, he emphasizes the importance of consistency and staying true to one’s values. The foundation’s commitment to consistency and follow-through has been instrumental in its success.
Contributing Factors to Success
Stable Road Foundation attributes its success to consistency, reliability, and a steadfast commitment to its promises. The foundation’s partners trust that when they collaborate with Stable Road Foundation, commitments will be honored, and actions will align with words. This level of trust has been pivotal in building lasting relationships and achieving meaningful impact.
Uniqueness: Valuable Partnerships and Long-term Dedication
Two distinguishing features set Stable Road Foundation apart: its ability to form valuable partnerships and its dedication to long-term projects. The foundation actively engages communities, ensuring mutual investment and commitment. This unique approach fosters a sense of shared responsibility, making the foundation’s initiatives more impactful and sustainable.
The Power of Meditation
Ed Freedman draws inspiration from his daily transcendental meditation (TM) practice. Since being introduced to the practice by the David Lynch Foundation ten years ago, Freedman has consistently practiced TM twice a day. He finds that the practice unlocks deep sources of wisdom that can be applied in a wide variety of situations.
Future Outlook: Expanding Programs and Global Footprint
Stable Road Foundation envisions continued expansion, with a focus on developing more hyperlocal programs and initiatives to support communities on Maui, as well as ambitious projects in remote locations around the world. The foundation aims to address the increasing needs of people both at home and abroad, extending its reach to make a positive impact on a larger scale.
Reflecting on the Journey: Impact-driven Fulfillment
Ed Freedman describes the journey of Stable Road Foundation as fulfilling, driven by the ability to feel the impact. The foundation’s work creates a virtuous cycle, where each positive deed inspires the next. Despite the challenges, the ongoing journey is charged with a sense of purpose and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.
Stable Road Foundation, under the leadership of Ed Freedman, stands as a beacon of positive change, demonstrating the power of collaboration, consistency, and a commitment to long-term impact. As the foundation continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of empowering people and communities to become the best versions of themselves
