VETERANS TRIBUTE EDITION | BUILT AMERICA MAGAZINE

“Operation Finally Home is about far more than bricks and mortar,” Dan says. “It creates stability where there has been uncertainty. It gives families a foundation again.” While many organizations must raise the full cost before building, Operation Finally Home operates differently. “Our program starts with willing builders,” Dan explains. “Once a builder raises his hand, we go out and find the veteran family who needs it most.” Their signature Town Hall Meeting brings the community into the mission from the beginning. Builders gather suppliers, subcontractors, bankers, and partners as the family’s story is presented. Labor and materials are pledged on the spot. “We try to garner at least two- thirds of the support from the builder and their network,” Dan says. “Then we raise the rest.” Then comes the surprise reveal—the moment that never gets old. “We’ve surprised families at NFL games, NBA games, churches, concerts… that moment is something special.”

A Build Process Rooted in Community

26

VETERANS TRIBUTE EDITION

Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker