Our Approach
About the Founder
Anthony M. Fernicola, the founder of the AMF Foundation, was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey into a very close and loving Italian family. From them he learned a deep devotion to family, a sense of service to his fellow man and a very strong work ethic. Anthony graduated from Arts High School, where he played the saxophone and had his own band. His love of music was nurtured there and was reinforced at home by his musician father and uncles. He is a big supporter of the arts and will be sponsoring a scholarship at Arts High School for deserving students, and has also hosted fundraisers for struggling musicians.
Anthony entered the Army in October of 1965. He was with the 368thStevedore company of the 551stTransportation Battalion in Saigon affectionately known as the “Deck Devils”. He served his country until November of 1967. This experience forever changed his life and amplified his love of his country and fellow veterans, especially those veterans who are financially disadvantaged or suffering from disabilities. It has become his mission to help them through his foundation.
As a Vietnam Veteran, serving in the army from 1966-1967, Anthony M. Fernicola knows and understands firsthand the importance of honoring our military and has devoted much of his life to charitable entities that help disabled veterans. He has been diligent and steadfast in his dedication to paralyzed veterans and wounded warriors and those suffering from the traumas of war. He is sensitive to the plight they face daily and is committed to easing their trials and tribulations through financial assistance. He has supported many charities whose mission and philosophy mirror his own.
Another cause near and dear to Anthony’s heart are children with disabilities. Having first hand knowledge in his own family, he is aware of the many challenges that parents face on a daily ongoing basis. He comprehends the commitment and the financial burden these caretakers face and that is one of the main reasons why he started his foundation. He has financially supported exempt organizations that provide entertainment and companionship for children suffering from life threatening ailments in hospitals through a program called Big Animals for Little Kids. He is also a benefactor to Children’s Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Anthony financially helps to support their wheelchair department that specializes in customizing wheelchairs for every child’s specific disability.
Funding scholarships for higher education is something of a special interest to Anthony. Helping someone to reach their goals and help improve their life and circumstance is of vital importance to him. Education is the key to having a chance at a successful life and providing scholarships to deserving students can make that a reality.
In his local community, Anthony has faithfully supported many municipal organizations. The First Aid Squads, the Beach and Fire Companies, the ASPCA to name a few. Anthony is a very dedicated and caring person whose generosity to his causes knows no bounds. His willingness to assist those less fortunate is a testament to his great character and his wonderful spirit.
The Diamond in the AMF logo symbolizes and embraces strength of character, ethics and faithfulness to oneself and others. This perfectly describes and defines Anthony’s essence and reason for his philanthropy.