At Denver Flooring and Finishes, we believe in giving back to those who have given so much for our country. That’s why we were deeply honored to partner with Built By Krueger and Homes for Our Troops (HFOT) to help build two specially adapted homes for two incredible veterans: Corporal Zac Dinsmore and Technical Sergeant Adam Popp.
HFOT is a remarkable nonprofit organization that has been building and donating custom-adapted homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans since 2004. By working with HFOT, we had the privilege of contributing to an organization that not only builds homes but rebuilds lives.
The Mission and Impact of Homes for Our Troops
Homes for Our Troops has a unique mission that resonates deeply with us. HFOT is dedicated to building custom-adapted homes that meet the specific needs of veterans who have sustained severe injuries, including limb loss, paralysis, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These homes go beyond providing shelter—they restore independence and mobility for veterans who sacrificed for our country.
HFOT’s work allows veterans to regain the freedom to move through their homes with ease, a freedom most of us take for granted. Since its inception, HFOT has built over 400 homes nationwide, offering veterans a foundation to focus on family, recovery, and personal growth.
Each home HFOT builds is tailored to the veteran’s unique requirements, with features like wheelchair-accessible spaces, single-level layouts, widened doorways, and specialized bathrooms.
HFOT’s commitment to veterans extends far beyond the day they receive their home; they offer financial planning, homeownership education, and an extensive support network that includes peer mentors and professional resources.
HFOT’s approach goes a long way in helping veterans not only adapt to their new homes but also thrive in them.
Our Role in Building Homes for Veterans: Dinsmore and Popp
As part of this impactful project, we worked alongside HFOT and Built By Krueger to design and install flooring that would meet the unique needs of Corporal Zac Dinsmore and Technical Sergeant Adam Popp, two courageous individuals whose stories serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices our service members make.
Corporal Zac Dinsmore’s Journey
Corporal Zac Dinsmore, a former Marine Infantryman, faced life-altering injuries while serving in Afghanistan in 2011. After stepping on an IED, he endured years of surgeries before choosing to have his leg amputated in 2014. Though medically retired, Zac now channels his dedication into raising his young son, Barrett. Living in a non-adapted home presented daily challenges, especially as Zac tried to keep up with Barrett on steep stairs and navigate around inaccessible areas.
In his new HFOT home, Zac can now move freely throughout his single-level, adapted space. The home’s design provides Zac with the independence to care for his son without physical barriers. The accessible layout also allows him to pursue his passion for blacksmithing and welding, hobbies he hopes to turn into a career. Thanks to HFOT and the support of countless donors, Zac has the freedom to focus on finishing his welding degree and building a new chapter in his life.
Technical Sergeant Adam Popp’s Journey
For Technical Sergeant Adam Popp, a career in the Air Force as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician offered both purpose and camaraderie. However, in 2007, his life took a dramatic turn when an IED explosion in Afghanistan cost him his right leg and resulted in injuries that continue to impact his life. Despite these challenges, Adam has shown incredible resilience.
He has pursued higher education, earning a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and another in sport and performance psychology, all while remaining active in the veteran community as a mentor and advocate.
The accessible HFOT home Adam will soon call his own means relief from the daily pain he endures moving up and down stairs in his current residence. Adam is a dedicated athlete, often competing in marathons and setting records, and his new adapted home will provide a much-needed recovery space, allowing him to further his mission of inspiring others through his athletic achievements.
For Adam, this home represents a renewed sense of security and the chance to keep pushing boundaries in both his personal and professional life.
HFOT: More Than Just Building Homes
What makes HFOT stand out as a charity is its ongoing commitment to veterans long after their homes are completed. HFOT has created a network of resources to ensure veterans can continue rebuilding their lives.
Veterans in HFOT homes receive financial planning, peer mentoring, and connections to employment and education resources, which together form a support system designed for long-term success.
For veterans like Zac and Adam, the financial freedom of living mortgage-free is transformative. With less financial stress, they can focus on their careers, education, and advocacy work.
HFOT’s dedication to veterans has earned it top ratings from Charity Navigator and other organizations, highlighting its transparency, integrity, and effectiveness.
A Message to Our Community
Being part of this project with HFOT has been one of the most rewarding experiences for Denver Flooring and Finishes. We’ve seen firsthand the difference an accessible, customized home can make in the lives of veterans who have already given so much.
We want to thank HFOT, Built By Krueger, and everyone who supports HFOT’s mission, from individual donors to corporate sponsors. HFOT currently has over 100 veterans waiting for homes, and it relies on the generosity of individuals and businesses alike to continue making its mission a reality.
To learn more about Homes for Our Troops, visit HFOT’s mission page. We encourage our community to get involved, whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Every contribution helps a veteran regain their independence and gives them a home where they can thrive.
Let’s continue to build homes and rebuild lives. For more information on supporting HFOT’s work, visit their website or consider making a donation. Every bit helps us honor those who have served and sacrificed.
Comentarios