During their discussion, Conroy asked Armand what life was like for families in his community. Armand shared that many families survived on approximately $200 per month, and that $25 could provide enough food to feed a family for three days. At that moment, Conroy reflected on a lunch he had just purchased for nearly $160, much of which went unfinished. The contrast was impossible to ignore. The amount spent on a single meal could have helped sustain several families. That realization sparked a deeper commitment to do more.

For years, Conroy had already been giving back through youth sports programs, mentorship, and technology initiatives. Yet he felt called to make a greater impact by helping families meet immediate needs, creating opportunities for children, and building a legacy of service his own children could be proud to continue.

That conversation became the foundation for what would eventually become the 44.5 Foundation. For the first five years, Conroy and Armand personally funded the organization’s work, partnering with local volunteers to provide food assistance, educational support, youth development programs, and community outreach initiatives.

Today, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the 44.5 Foundation is expanding its reach through partnerships, volunteers, and supporters who share a common vision: empowering communities, creating opportunity, and transforming lives both locally and around the world.

One Community. One Family. One Life at a Time.