ACCP Staff
ACCP member Owens Corning has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to positively impacting society, including a focus on supporting our nation’s veteran community. Through innovative programs and partnerships, and product and financial donations, Owens Corning has made a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served their country. In doing so, the company has engaged customers, suppliers, and team members across business lines in these worthy endeavors.
“This effort began several years ago when the board of our Platinum Preferred Roofing contractors voiced interest in creating a program to support veterans in need,” says Don Rettig, President of the Owens Corning Foundation. “And from there, our focus on supporting our veteran and Gold Star families has grown substantially.”
Roof Deployment Projects
Owens Corning’s Roof Deployment Project has become a shining example of the company’s commitment to giving back to the military community. In partnership with the Platinum Preferred Contractors and with help from Habitat for Humanity, Purple Heart Homes, and the Gary Sinise Foundation, Owens Corning helps veterans who need roof replacements.
By providing high-quality roofing materials and expert installation services, Owens Corning helps protect these families’ homes. Since 2016, Owens Corning and its Platinum contractors have provided over 500 new roofs to veterans in need.
Addressing Challenges: Ensuring Recipient Vetting
While Owens Corning’s CSR initiatives are undoubtedly commendable, addressing the challenges that arise in these endeavors is crucial. One such challenge is the need for thorough recipient vetting for the Roof Deployment Project.
To ensure that assistance is provided to deserving individuals, Owens Corning collaborates closely with its nonprofit partners to implement a verification process. This careful evaluation guarantees that resources are allocated to those who truly need and qualify for the support, reinforcing the effectiveness and integrity of the company’s CSR initiatives.
Building Homes for Veterans
One of Owens Corning’s notable CSR initiatives is its involvement in building homes for severely injured combat veterans and their families. Owens Corning and the Owens Corning Foundation partner with The Gary Sinise Foundation in support of the RISE Program – Restoring Independence, Supporting Empowerment. Through RISE, specially adapted smart homes are constructed to provide a safe haven based on the specific needs of each injured veteran. The homes are 100% mortgage free, further alleviating the stress of homeownership for the veteran and their family.
“At the Gary Sinise Foundation, it is our mission to serve and honor the needs of our nation’s defenders, their families, our severely wounded veterans, first responders, and the families of our fallen heroes. With the support of partners like Owens Corning, we continue to uplift and positively impact their lives, often in their darkest times of need. I believe while we can never do enough for our nation’s heroes and the families who sacrifice alongside them, we can always do a little more, and Owens Corning is helping us do just that.” –
Gary Sinise, Actor, Philanthropist, and Founder, Gary Sinise Foundation
Engaging Customers, Suppliers, and Team Members
Owens Corning’s commitment to supporting veterans and the military community extends beyond the direct impact of its initiatives. The company understands the power of collaboration and actively engages customers, suppliers, and team members in its CSR efforts.
Owens Corning aims to partner with nonprofits and help them accomplish their mission by connecting them with contractors and suppliers who can get the work done. Engaging their customers in supporting these initiatives creates a sense of purpose and shared responsibility, fostering a strong bond beyond business transactions.
Veterans and the military are also significant areas of concern for Owens Corning employees throughout the organization, as evidenced by the growing Salute Employee Resource Group. The company has also hosted individuals impacted by its programs to speak at corporate functions, illustrating the importance of the work.
Owens Corning’s CSR initiatives aimed at supporting veterans and the military community exemplify the company’s commitment to positively impacting society. From building homes and providing roofs to supplying cutting-edge insulation solutions, Owens Corning has demonstrated an ongoing dedication to ensuring the well-being of those who have served their country.
Owens Corning sets an inspiring example for other companies to follow by addressing challenges like recipient vetting and engaging stakeholders. Through its remarkable CSR initiatives, Owens Corning not only uplifts the lives of veterans but also strengthens the bond between its brand and the communities it serves.
