Author: Amy Freeman | September 24, 2024

Across the U.S. and Canada, millions of people have served their country in the armed forces, with many of them deploying overseas during wartime. It's important to give back to and support those who have given so much to their country. Through the Beacon of Hope program, Beacon Building Products provides roofs for veterans. It's just one of several ways that our company gives back to veterans.

Learn more about how we're providing a Beacon of Hope and what your roofing company can do to lend a hand to veterans.

Roofs for Veterans with Beacon of Hope

Every house needs a roof; every building needs a roof. Roofs keep out rain and cold and prevent sun and excessive heat from getting in. They make a house a home, a place that provides effective shelter and keeps its residents safe.

But roofs don't last forever. Over time, they can develop leaks, grow algae or mold, and suffer wear and tear. An old, worn-out roof doesn't do its job well and can put those who live in a house or use a building at risk. An old or damaged roof can also affect the structural integrity of a building.

We created the Beacon of Hope program to give veterans this most basic necessity: a roof that provides a safe place to live. During the annual contest, we invite veterans or friends and family of veterans to nominate someone they believe deserves to win. Contest entries should include photos of the house, the Veteran and a story. We also welcome submissions for Veteran organizations that are in need of repair. The 14 Beacon of Hope winners receive a new roof or significant roof repairs.

Last year's Beacon of Hope winners included a couple who served during the Korean War, a young woman serving in the military while working full-time and going to college, a single mom and National Guard member recently diagnosed with cervical cancer, and the VFW Post 4639 in Virginia.

SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

2024 applications are open until October 4th. 

How to Help Veterans in Your Communities

Beacon of Hope is just one way to give back to veterans. Whether you serve residential or commercial customers, focus solely on roofing or offer waterproofing as well, there are several ways your roofing company can support the veterans in your community.

Hire Veterans

Once they've returned from service, many veterans are in need of work. The skills they learned while in the military, such as creative problem-solving and performance under pressure, make veterans ideal hires. As the employer of more than 230 veterans, Beacon can say from experience they make excellent employees.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Regional Veterans' Employment Coordinators can provide your company with resources and support for attracting veterans and providing training to address any skill gaps.

Offer a Veterans Discount

Another way to give back to the veterans in your community is to offer a military discount. If a veteran or active-duty service member contacts your company for a new roof, roof repair or waterproofing, consider including a 10% (or more) discount in your estimate.

It may not seem like much, but many veterans struggle financially upon leaving the armed forces. Every little bit can help.

Run Your Own Contest

If you want the veterans in your community to know that you have their backs, consider starting your own contest, similar to Beacon of Hope.

First, choose a prize, such as a new roof or extensive repairs. The prize should reflect your company's area of expertise — residential roofs if you primarily work with residential customers, or commercial roofs if you work with companies or organizations. Remember that organizations that serve veterans, such as the VFW or American Legion, are often in need of support, too. From there, it's all about logistics:

• Choose a submission period: When should people submit nominations, and how long will submissions remain open? Beacon of Hope accepts submissions for about eight weeks.
• Decide on submission materials: What should people send in when submitting a nominee? Examples include a photo of the veteran, pictures of the house or building, and a compelling story.
• Advertise the contest: Let people know about your contest. Create social media posts, spread the word with press releases and blog posts, and tell your existing clients.
• Choose the winners: Once you've received the submissions, have a committee of judges, such as your company president and a panel of employees, choose the winner or winners.

By giving back to those who have given so much, you not only help veterans in need but also improve your company's reputation and standing in your community.