Parsippany, NJ – GAF, headquartered in Parsippany, has partnered with East Coast Roofing, Siding & Windows to complete the first roof replacement through Project Honor, a new initiative providing free roofing systems to veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses of veterans throughout South Jersey.
The inaugural recipient is Michael Vonschondorf, a 100% service-connected disabled U.S. Navy veteran whose family had been living beneath a roof suffering from severe deterioration and holes that created ongoing safety concerns. GAF donated the complete roofing system and warranty, while East Coast Roofing completed the installation at no cost to the family.
Related: GAF, Project Honor, East Coast Roofing, South Jersey, Veterans
First recipient served aboard USS Russell and in Afghanistan
Vonschondorf served in the U.S. Navy from 2003 to 2011, including deployments aboard the USS Russell and to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. After leaving military service, he continued volunteering in his community by leading art classes for veterans, first responders, at-risk youth, and children with disabilities.
“This donation means more to my family and me than words can express,” Vonschondorf said. “After years of living with a roof in dangerous condition, having a secure home gives me peace of mind that my family is safe.”
Project Honor plans 25 roof replacements this year
Launched this year, Project Honor was created by East Coast Roofing in recognition of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration. Company officials said the program will provide 25 free roof replacements across South Jersey to veterans, active-duty military members, and surviving spouses of veterans through a nomination process.
Applications are reviewed by a volunteer committee made up of veterans and active-duty military personnel, who evaluate nominees based on military service, financial need, family circumstances, and the condition of the home’s roof.
“Project Honor is built on a simple idea; gratitude should be demonstrated through action. This program is about more than replacing roofs, it’s about showing up for the people who have served our country and finding meaningful ways to give back,” said Shawn Stiteler, owner and president of East Coast Roofing.
Stiteler added that the partnership with GAF allowed the company to provide Vonschondorf’s family with “a safe, reliable roof,” while expressing hope the initiative encourages others in the roofing industry to support veterans and military families in their own communities.
