Helping heroes RISE: Wounded vets thrive in accessible smart homes

DALLAS, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- "Freedom and security are precious gifts that we, as Americans, should never take for granted. We must do all we can to extend our hand in times of need to those who willingly sacrifice each day to provide that freedom and security. While we can never do enough to show gratitude to our nation's defenders, we can always do a little more."
— Gary Sinise

Established in 2011 by Actor and Humanitarian Gary Sinise, the Gary Sinise Foundation honors and supports military service members, first responders, and their families. Just one of its many initiatives, the R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program provides mortgage-free, specially adapted smart homes for our nation's most severely wounded heroes.

Over the past several years, Daltile has had the privilege of teaming up with this wonderful foundation. Once again in 2025, Daltile is honored to donate the tile for these homes that help deserving heroes.

"As we celebrate the majesty and meaning of Independence Day, it is incredibly important to recognize the brave service members who have fought to maintain our freedom as a nation. This July 4^th, we warmly extend our heartfelt gratitude to these American heroes for their selfless service and sacrifice," said Paij Thorn-Brooks, vice president of marketing for Daltile. "We also want to recognize the Gary Sinise Foundation's R.I.S.E. program that gifts brand new homes to wounded veterans, supporting them in the way they deserve to be served and appreciated. The Gary Sinise Foundation is a non-profit organization filled with people of integrity, who truly love our service members, first responders, and their families. Daltile is very grateful for the opportunity to help honor our veterans through the R.I.S.E. program by being a small part of making daily life more easily accessible for many of our nation's wounded heroes."

"These homes are fully customized to address each hero's unique injuries and make a tremendous difference in the lives of those who have served, given so much on behalf of their country, and who continue to persevere against the physical challenges sustained during their time of service," added Thorn-Brooks.

Meet one of the many heroes thriving in their new specially adapted, forever homes:
John Kremer (video)

For more information on the Gary Sinise Foundation or to donate toward future home builds, please visit: Gary Sinise Foundation RISE.

Media Contact:
Michelle Corley
[email protected]

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SOURCE Daltile