The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) has provided flooring for its 57th home in support of 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 United States Army Captain (Ret.) J.J. Guerrero took place on June 17, in Boerne, Texas. Flooring for the project was donated by NWFA member American OEM.
Captain Guerrero spent four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and 19 years in the U.S. Army. He was injured in 2007 by an explosively formed penetrator (EFP) in Iraq, resulting in the loss of both legs.
“An explosively formed penetrator is like a mortar tube used for fireworks,” says NWFA President and CEO, Michael Martin. “One went off under Captain Guerrero’s vehicle, causing his injuries. His new smart home is custom designed to help improve his mobility and restore his independence. We’re honored to partner with American OEM to provide beautiful wood floors for his new home.”
In addition to the 57 homes already completed, NWFA currently is working with its members to source wood flooring for 13 additional R.I.S.E. homes in various stages of planning and construction. Currently, 142 NWFA member companies have donated product, logistics, and installation services in locations throughout the United States, with a total value of more than $5.2 million. A list of all NWFA R.I.S.E. participating companies can be found at http://www.nwfa.org/giving-back.aspx.
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.