On September 30, 2025, the First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF) announced the addition of John Yawn and Rob Rajkowski to its national Board of Directors. FRCF, a prominent national nonprofit organization focused on assisting the children of U.S. first responders, has been instrumental in providing support to families of firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers.
John Yawn has been with Sunbelt Merchant Group since 2018, serving as Chief Operations Officer. He specializes in empowering independent business owners by providing them with competitive advantages over larger chain stores. His expertise in product development, marketing, and distribution has earned him a reputation as both a strategist and a mentor within the industry. Yawn expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join the FRCF board, citing his personal connection as the father of a law enforcement sergeant. He remarked, "I am honored to join the board of First Responders Children's Foundation. At Sunbelt Merchant Group, my focus has always been on empowering independent business owners with the tools and resources they need to thrive. That same spirit of empowerment is at the heart of FRCF's mission, ensuring that the children of first responders have the resources and opportunities to succeed. I look forward to supporting this important work and helping the Foundation grow its impact for families who sacrifice so much for all of us."
Rob Rajkowski, who became the Chief Marketing Officer at SERVPRO in 2024, brings a wealth of experience in marketing strategy and operations to the board. His contributions have been pivotal in expanding the partnership between SERVPRO and FRCF, aimed at enhancing the assistance provided to first responder families. Previously, he held significant roles at various companies, including serving as CEO of Drive Automotive Services. Rajkowski noted, "I am proud to join the board of First Responders Children's Foundation. SERVPRO's dedication to supporting first responder families aligns closely with my values and professional passion for community engagement. I look forward to working with FRCF's leadership to amplify its impact through creative strategies, strong partnerships, and the power of storytelling so that every child of a first responder has the opportunity to succeed."
The First Responders Children's Foundation has been a vital resource for the families of first responders for over 24 years, particularly emphasizing support in key areas such as scholarships, financial assistance grants, mental health resilience programs, and community engagement. The foundation was founded in response to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, when many children lost a parent who served as a first responder. Jillian Crane, the President and CEO of FRCF, praised the new board members, stating, "John Yawn and Rob Rajkowski bring exceptional leadership and strategic vision to our board. Qualities that strengthen our ability to support children of first responders. Their extensive backgrounds will enhance our mission to provide essential resources to families in need."
The involvement of Yawn and Rajkowski reflects the foundation's commitment to building a diverse team of leaders who are passionate about making a difference. With their expertise and deep rooted dedication to community service, FRCF aims to expand its reach and effectiveness in supporting the children of those who dedicate their lives to public safety.
For more information about the First Responders Children's Foundation and to explore how you can contribute to the cause, visit their official website at
1stRCF.org. You can also follow them on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @1strcf for the latest updates.