Ep. 107 - How FEC Owners Make a Difference in Their Communities

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta are live from Amusement 360 sharing how FEC owners make a difference in their communities. They share stories that stuck with them like Nic Parks of Level Up Entertainment in Columbia, MO donates his entire professor salary to a children’s hospital and created a fundraiser model that lets community groups keep 50% of arcade card sales. In Pennsylvania, Derek Rosner runs a 24-hour gaming marathon that raised $32,000 for kids in treatment, covering every cost himself so all proceeds go to the hospital. They also highlight Craig Erlich, CEO of Launch Entertainment, who spoke about the “special sauce” that keeps operators in this industry, as well as Metropolis Resort in Wisconsin, where frontline staff have grown into leadership roles thanks to intentional mentorship. The Johnsons of Rev’d Up Fun continue to invest in their team by bringing managers to Amusement 360 for growth opportunities. And one anonymous operator is even launching a program to give away 1,000 birthday parties to foster kids. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that profitability matters, but true impact comes from generosity, leadership, and making lasting memories.