Tampa-based Fulfill Your Destiny was founded in 2010 as a 501c3 non-profit, but the mission began February 7, 2007 when its founder, Karen Mertes, a lieutenant colonel with the Air Force, was struck by a drunk driver along Interstate 75. Karen turned a life altering tragedy into a life purpose with her organization, Fulfill Your Destiny. As Karen’s life hung in the balance, she promised that if she were fortunate to live, she’d spend the rest of her life helping others. Fulfill Your Destiny’s mission is to financially help people in the greater Tampa Bay community whose careers have been altered by injury or other unforeseen circumstances.  Special consideration is given to survivors living with a traumatic brain injury.

Founder Karen Mertes uses an entrepreneurial business model that she’s overlaid onto a non-profit organization, raising money for Fulfill Your Destiny in 11 ways, five of which involve her offering a professional service or product for donation. Karen’s philosophy is that we’re able to assist more people, have more meaningful, deeper connections and a farther reaching impact in positively impacting people’s lives by working together. Karen tells other non-profits not to view Fulfill Your Destiny as a competitor for precious fundraising dollars but as an asset and partner.  We’ve heard the acronym for TEAM – Together Each Accomplishes More.  Fulfill Your Destiny inspires us to work together for the greatest good. Fulfill Your Destiny is dedicated to enriching the lives of others by bringing business and community together.