About Us

OUR MISSION

The FI Cop Foundation exists to support first responders, law enforcement personnel, and their families through financial wellness education, scholarship opportunities, and community support.

We empower those who serve our communities to pursue stronger financial futures through accessible, unbiased education, practical tools, and informed decision-making. By promoting financial literacy, confident low-cost investing, and long-term planning, we aim to strengthen the financial well-being, stability, and future opportunities of first responder families both during and after their careers in public service.

PURPOSE

The FI Cop Foundation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Its primary purpose is to provide financial education, literacy resources, and training to law enforcement professionals, their families, and the broader community.

The Foundation’s programs include:
- Instruction in budgeting, retirement planning, and index fund investing
- Guidance on student loan repayment and debt management
- Scholarship opportunities to reduce the student loan debt burden for law enforcement families
- Public outreach to promote responsible and independent financial habits

Through these efforts, The FI Cop Foundation seeks to make trustworthy, cost-effective financial guidance available to those who protect and serve.

MEET OUR BOARD

Jimmy Lancaster

President & Treasurer

Jimmy Lancaster serves as President and Treasurer of The FI Cop Foundation, where he is focused on helping first responders and their families pursue stronger financial futures through education, practical resources, scholarship opportunities, and community support.

Jimmy has dedicated 18 years of service to the Iowa State Patrol and has developed a strong passion for promoting financial wellness, long-term planning, and financial independence within the first responder community. Through both his professional experience and personal interest in financial education, he recognizes the significant financial and personal pressures many first responders face throughout their careers.

In addition to his law enforcement service, Jimmy has served as Treasurer and Secretary for the Iowa State Patrol Supervisors Association, a nonprofit organization supporting members and their families. His experience in nonprofit leadership and financial stewardship helps guide the foundation’s organizational growth and long-term vision.

Jimmy earned his bachelor’s degree from Loras College and completed the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) education coursework through Bryant University and the Boston Institute of Finance, further strengthening his commitment to financial literacy and education.

Through The FI Cop Foundation, Jimmy hopes to empower first responders with accessible, unbiased financial education and practical tools that help create greater stability, opportunity, and peace of mind both during and after their careers in public service.

Bryan O’Donnell

Vice President & Secretary

Bryan O’Donnell brings nearly 20 years of dedicated service with the Des Moines Police Department and a strong commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community engagement.

Throughout his law enforcement career, Bryan has served in both Patrol and Investigations, handling violent crime and complex financial and fraud investigations while building strong relationships within the community. He currently serves as Accreditation Manager, helping ensure the department maintains national law enforcement standards and best practices.

Bryan holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Drake University and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

In addition to his professional service, Bryan has a long history of nonprofit leadership and community involvement. He previously served as Board President for Mentor Iowa and founded O’Donnell & Friends Charities, a nonprofit organization supporting charitable initiatives throughout the Des Moines area.

As a board member of The FI Cop Foundation, Bryan is passionate about supporting first responders and their families through education, opportunity, and long-term community impact.

Jay Figgins

Board Member

Jay Figgins is an experienced CPA and financial operations professional with extensive expertise in accounting systems, financial reporting, and technology-driven business solutions. Throughout his career, he has focused on helping organizations improve financial accuracy, efficiency, and long-term stability through practical and innovative accounting strategies.

As part of RSM US LLP’s Finance & Accounting Outsourcing practice, Jay works with businesses across a variety of industries to streamline financial operations and implement modern accounting technologies that support sound financial decision-making and organizational growth.

Through his role with The FI Cop Foundation, Jay is passionate about promoting financial literacy, education, and long-term financial wellness for first responders and their families. He believes access to practical financial knowledge and trusted guidance can help create stronger futures for those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

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