Rebuilding Together Greater Florida Brings Experience, Skill and Critical Mission to Jacksonville

 

Michael Edmison (left), Vice President of Network Advancement, National Rebuilding Together, Chris Reesor, Community Engagement Administrator, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, Ken Amaro, Jacksonville City Councilman, District 1 and Justin Coles, Vice President of Development, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (November 13, 2025) – Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGFL) today announced that Jacksonville will be benefiting from their vital core mission to Repair Homes, Revitalize Communities, and Rebuild Lives.

“Together along with our community partners and other key collaborators, we have been able to rally around a most treasured asset, people, in their greatest time of need,” said Jose Garcia, Chief Executive Officer, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida. “By investing in the resources and services needed for safe, healthy housing, we continue to prioritize improving the quality of life.”

The announcement comes during an inaugural day-long volunteer project at Five STAR Veterans Center in Arlington. Founded in 2012, Five STAR Veterans Center assists veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, traumatic brain injuries, depression, anxiety and other related mental health issues.

RTGFL is coordinating over 80 volunteers from The Home Depot’s associate volunteer force, Team Depot and the Home Builders Institute (HBI), Travis Manion Foundation, and the Soldier’s Angels. The Home Depot Foundation provided a $40,000 grant for the project.

“As a Team Depot captain, it’s inspiring to see our volunteers come together to make a tangible difference for veterans and families in need. Projects like this show the power of community and the impact of lending a helping hand where it’s needed most,” said Sam Colon, Store Manager at the Jacksonville Home Depot.

Colonel Francis "Len" Loving, USMC (Ret.), a decorated 30-year Marine veteran and founder and CEO of the Five STAR Veterans Center, will be recognized with a special presentation by the Travis Manion Foundation.

“It’s our honor to assist Five STAR Veterans Center and its founder in creating an even more peaceful environment creating a place of healing,” added Garcia. “Everyone deserves to live in a safe and healthy environment especially our Veterans. Thanks to The Home Depot Foundation, HBI and the Travis Manion Foundation.”

RTGFL has carried out a critical, three-pronged mission for more than two decades and has identified Jacksonville neighborhoods that could benefit from their knowledge, experience and skills.

Through the Safe and Healthy Home Program, they perform vital repairs and upgrades to make homes safer and more secure. The program helps homeowners by reducing the risk of accidents and health hazards.

“This enables senior citizens to age in place, which helps stabilize neighborhoods and helps preserve family wealth for the next generation,” noted Garcia.

RTGFL follows 25 key safety priorities, ensuring homes have safe entrances, watertight roofs, functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, pest-free environments and bathroom modifications, for those with mobility challenges.

Another important mission is recovery from hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters. RTGFL continues to be at the forefront in providing crucial support to families struggling to cope after a disaster.

RTGFL is also dedicated to addressing the state’s affordable housing crisis. They have built homes that are affordable for purchase and provide affordable rental units that provide families with a pathway to financial stability.

RTGFL’s track record of rebuilding stronger, more resilient communities is a perfect fit for Jacksonville’s growing housing needs. To learn more about how you can get involved, please visit www.rtgfl.org.