Oberlin, Ohio -- The Natural Stone Institute (NSI) recently provided natural stone and fabrication services for the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment). The R.I.S.E. program builds specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders. To date, Natural Stone Institute members have been involved in twenty-three completed homes.

Natural stone and fabrication services for USMC Corporal Chad Watson and his family in Illinois were provided by MSI, Eden Stone, and The Countertop Factory Midwest. In the spring of 2016, Watson graduated with his MBA from Notre Dame and accepted a position with Medtronic Spine and Biologics. His job requires frequent walking, which causes stress on his left leg if using his prosthetic for long periods of time. The specially adapted smart home provided by the Gary Sinise Foundation will ease his daily pain and provide a safe place where he and his family can live comfortably and independently.

Laura Grandlienard (ROCKin’teriors), chair of the NSI R.I.S.E. committee, said, “Being involved with the R.I.S.E. program enables our industry to take a leadership role in supporting these veterans and their families who have endured so much to protect our freedoms. We feel tremendous pride in sharing our talents for such an important cause. It’s a beautiful feeling to say ‘welcome home’ to these heroes.”

Fifty-six Natural Stone Institute members have donated their time, products, and services to this cause since 2016.

For more information, visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org.