He said eight toilets in the post and social center were replaced, the bathrooms were made handicapped accessible, carpet in the entryway was replaced, security lights were installed and outdoor heaters were purchased. The work was completed by 11 Home Depot employees and 10 community volunteers, Swafford said.
When the work was finished at 3:30 p.m. Thursday — eight hours after it started — Swafford said it gave him “a wonderful feeling” knowing they improved the facilities and made them more welcoming to the veterans.
“There is nothing more humbling than helping a World War II veteran,” he said. “Those old guys made America what it is today.”
Less than an hour after the volunteers left, veterans started to fill the VFW, said David Jagel, senior vice president. He said the veterans were impressed by the improvements and thankful for the assistance.
He said the work of Home Depot volunteers “shows they care about veterans.”
This volunteer project was part of the company’s fifth annual Celebration of Service campaign, a nationwide effort led by Team Depot, the Home Depot’s associate-led volunteer force, to help give back to veterans in need. Between now and Veterans Day, Team Depot volunteers will complete projects for veterans in every community the company serves, Swafford said.
Since 2011, the foundation has invested more than $105 million to provide safe housing to veterans, and along with the help of Team Depot volunteers, has transformed more than 22,000 homes for veterans.
This was the second time Home Depot has provided assistance to the VFW. Two years ago, volunteers painted the exterior and installed new lighting through the center, Swafford said.
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