The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has provided flooring for its 29th
home in partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment). The R.I.S.E. program builds custom, specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders. The home dedication for US Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Brandon Dodson took place on May 3, in Vista, California. Flooring for the project was donated by NWFA member WD Flooring.
SSgt. Dodson served through five combat deployments. On August 9, 2014, during his fifth deployment, he and his platoon were on a mission in a small village when he stepped on a hidden pressure-plated improvised explosive device (IED). SSgt. Dodson suffered severe injuries from the blast, which resulted in the loss of both legs.
“I’m told that when Staff Sergeant Dodson opened his eyes after the blast, his first instinct was to take care of his men,” says NWFA President and CEO, Michael Martin. “However, it became clear very quickly that he was the one who needed immediate help. He was evacuated to Walter Reed where he endured numerous surgeries, and spent many months recovering from his injuries. His resolve to overcome his new challenges have been an inspiration to everyone he meets. We’re honored to partner with WD Flooring to provide flooring for his new home.”
In addition to the 29 homes already completed, NWFA currently is working with its members to source wood flooring for 21 additional R.I.S.E. homes in various stages of planning and construction. Currently, 54 NWFA member companies have donated product, logistics, and installation services in locations throughout the United States, with a total value of more than $4.0 million. A list of all NWFA R.I.S.E. partners is listed at nwfa.org/giving-
back.aspx.
By the end of this year, 65 specially adapted smart homes will be completed or underway through the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program. To learn more about the program, and how you and/or your company can get involved, contact the NWFA at 800.422.4556, or e-mail anita.howard@nwfa.org.