FAQ — Heart on Fire Support Network

Question 1

What is Heart on Fire Support Network?

Accepted Answer

Heart on Fire Support Network is a community-based nonprofit project dedicated to supporting burn survivors, trauma survivors, families in crisis, and young adults. We provide financial assistance, emotional support, peer connection, and practical resources to help people rebuild their lives after injury or crisis. No one should have to heal alone — that is the foundation of everything we do.

Question 2

Is Heart on Fire a 501(c)(3)?

Accepted Answer

Heart on Fire Support Network is a fiscally sponsored project of Social Good Fund, a California nonprofit corporation and registered 501(c)(3) organization, Tax ID (EIN) 46-1323531. This means your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, and we operate under the legal and financial umbrella of Social Good Fund while building toward our own independent nonprofit status.

Question 3

What does "fiscally sponsored" mean?

Accepted Answer

Fiscal sponsorship is a formal arrangement in which an established 501(c)(3) nonprofit — in our case, Social Good Fund — provides legal and financial oversight for a newer project like Heart on Fire. This allows us to accept tax-deductible donations and apply for grants while we grow. It is a common and legitimate path for emerging nonprofits.

Question 4

Who founded Heart on Fire Support Network?

Accepted Answer

Heart on Fire was founded by Eric Zeigler — a 27-year educator, Air Force veteran, SRLA marathon coach, chess program builder, wellness and Tai Chi instructor, entrepreneur, and burn survivor. After surviving burns over 50% of his body in a food truck explosion, Eric experienced firsthand the isolation and lack of support that survivors face. He founded Heart on Fire to make sure no one goes through that alone.

Question 5

Where is Heart on Fire located?

Accepted Answer

We are based in the Raleigh, North Carolina area. We serve survivors and families locally and are expanding our reach. Many of our support services and programs are also available virtually, so geography is not a barrier to getting help.

Question 6

How long has Heart on Fire been operating?

Accepted Answer

Heart on Fire Support Network is a young and growing organization. We are in our early stages — actively building programs, partnerships, and community. Our small but dedicated team is committed to growing responsibly so we can serve more survivors well.

Question 7

Who does Heart on Fire Support Network serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve burn survivors, trauma survivors, families in crisis, and youth and young adults navigating difficult life circumstances. Our programs are designed to meet people where they are — physically, emotionally, and practically — regardless of the stage of their recovery.

Question 8

Do I have to be a burn survivor to receive support?

Accepted Answer

No. While burn survivors are at the heart of our mission, we also support trauma survivors, families experiencing crisis, and young adults who need guidance, resources, and community. If you are unsure whether we can help, please reach out — we will always try to connect you with the right support.

Question 9

Do you serve children and young adults?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Youth empowerment is one of our core programs. We work with young people who have experienced trauma, crisis, or adversity — providing mentorship, life skills support, and connection to community resources to help them move forward with confidence.

Question 10

Do you serve families, not just individual survivors?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. When a burn or trauma event happens, the whole family is affected. We recognize that families in crisis need support too — practical help, emotional resources, and someone to walk alongside them during one of the hardest seasons of their lives.

Question 11

Is there a cost to receive services?

Accepted Answer

No. Our support services are provided free of charge to those who need them. We are funded through donations, grants, and partnerships so that cost is never a barrier to healing.

Question 12

Do you serve people outside of North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

We are based in the Raleigh, NC area and currently serve our local community most directly. However, many of our resources, peer support connections, and referral services are available virtually. If you are outside our area and need help, please reach out — we will do our best to connect you with resources near you.

Question 13

What programs does Heart on Fire offer?

Accepted Answer

Our programs include: Emergency Financial Assistance (rent, utilities, essential needs), Peer Support & Community (survivor-to-survivor connection), Mental Health Navigation (connecting survivors to trauma-informed care), Youth Empowerment (mentorship and life skills for young people), Employment & Life Stabilization (job readiness and practical life support), and Community Awareness & Education (training and outreach). Visit our Programs page for full details.

Question 14

What is the Heartberg Model™?

Accepted Answer

The Heartberg Model™ is our framework for understanding the full depth of what survivors carry. Like an iceberg, the visible wounds — scars, physical limitations, financial crisis — are only a fraction of the struggle. Below the surface lies hidden trauma, grief, loss of identity, anxiety, and emotional pain that the medical system often never addresses. Our programs are intentionally designed to address both sides.

Question 15

Can you help with rent or bills during my recovery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Emergency Financial Assistance program is designed to help survivors who are in financial crisis due to their injury or trauma. We can help with rent, utilities, and other essential needs. Contact us directly to learn more and start the process.

Question 16

Do you offer mental health counseling?

Accepted Answer

We do not provide direct clinical counseling, but we help survivors navigate the mental health system — identifying trauma-informed therapists, support groups, and community resources that fit their needs. We walk alongside you so you do not have to figure it out alone.

Question 17

Can you help me find a job after my injury?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Employment & Life Stabilization program supports survivors in rebuilding their professional lives — whether that means resume help, job readiness coaching, connecting with vocational resources, or simply having someone in your corner as you figure out next steps.

Question 18

Do you connect survivors with other survivors?

Accepted Answer

Yes — peer connection is one of the most powerful things we offer. Being heard by someone who truly understands what you have been through can change everything. Our Peer Support & Community program creates those connections in a safe, supportive environment.

Question 19

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Because Heart on Fire Support Network is a fiscally sponsored project of Social Good Fund — a registered 501(c)(3) organization (EIN 46-1323531) — your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You will receive a receipt for your records.

Question 20

How do I donate?

Accepted Answer

You can donate through our Get Involved page or by contacting us directly at eric@heartonfiresupportnetwork.org or 919-808-5299. We will walk you through the process and make sure your gift gets where it needs to go.

Question 21

Where does my donation go?

Accepted Answer

Every dollar goes directly toward supporting survivors — emergency financial assistance, peer support programs, mental health navigation, youth empowerment, and community outreach. We are a lean organization committed to putting resources where they matter most.

Question 22

Can I make a recurring monthly gift?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Monthly giving is one of the most impactful ways to support Heart on Fire because it gives us reliable funding to plan and sustain programs. Contact us at eric@heartonfiresupportnetwork.org to set up a recurring gift.

Question 23

Can my company sponsor Heart on Fire?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Corporate sponsorships are a meaningful way for businesses to invest in their community. We offer recognition, impact reports, and co-branding opportunities. Reach out through our Contact page or email eric@heartonfiresupportnetwork.org to discuss partnership options.

Question 24

Can I donate in honor or memory of someone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Tribute gifts are a beautiful way to honor a survivor or remember someone you love. Contact us at eric@heartonfiresupportnetwork.org and we will make sure your tribute is acknowledged.

Question 25

How can I volunteer with Heart on Fire?

Accepted Answer

We welcome volunteers in peer support, event coordination, administrative support, fundraising, and community awareness. Visit our Get Involved page to submit a volunteer application. We will follow up to find the best fit for your skills and availability.

Question 26

Can volunteers visit burn survivors in the hospital?

Accepted Answer

Not at this time. Hospital outreach is a future goal for our organization. We are currently building the proper insurance, training, and infrastructure needed to send volunteers into medical settings safely and responsibly. We want to do this right.

Question 27

Do I need to be a burn survivor to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

No. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. Whether you have lived experience with burn injury or trauma, or simply have a heart for service and a skill to offer, there is a place for you here.

Question 28

Can my organization partner with Heart on Fire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are actively building partnerships with shelters, schools, faith communities, healthcare providers, and corporate organizations. Hospital partnerships are a future goal as we grow. If your organization shares our values, we would love to connect — reach out through our Contact page.

Question 29

Can Eric Zeigler speak at our event?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Eric is an experienced speaker available for keynotes, workshops, training sessions, and virtual presentations. His topics include burn survivor resilience, the Heartberg Model™, leadership through adversity, mental health and recovery, youth empowerment, and more. Visit the Speaking page to learn about topics and fees.

Question 30

What are the speaking fees?

Accepted Answer

Fees range from $500 for virtual presentations to $5,000 for corporate keynotes. Community organizations, nonprofits, and schools may qualify for reduced rates. Travel expenses are covered by the host organization. Contact us for a custom quote.

Question 31

Can Eric speak to healthcare professionals about burn survivor support?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Eric speaks to medical teams, social workers, and healthcare providers about the invisible wounds survivors carry and how professionals can better support the whole person — not just the physical injury. This is one of his most requested topics.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Heart on Fire

Who We Serve

Programs & Services

Donating & Giving

Volunteering & Partnerships

Speaking & Training

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