The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has provided flooring for its 32nd 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 USMC Corporal Joshua Brubaker took place on July 26, in Bakersfield, California. Flooring for the project was donated by NWFA member Mullican Flooring.
Corporal Brubaker joined the Marines after receiving an A.S. degree in Criminal Justice. During his deployment to Afghanistan, his team was sent on a mission where he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in the loss of both legs.
“Corporal Brubaker endured daily surgeries as a result of his injuries,” says NWFA President and CEO, Michael Martin. “Even while he was fighting for his life, he was determined to make a full recovery. He remained focused on his physical therapy to regain his mobility, and has become an inspiration to those who have had the honor of meeting him. We are honored to partner with Mullican to provide flooring for his new home.”
In addition to the 32 homes already completed, NWFA currently is working with its members to source wood flooring for 18 additional R.I.S.E. homes in various stages of planning and construction. Currently, 56 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 can be found at http://www.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.