Mission Accomplished in Montana

A small army of Charter Communications volunteers recently took on a Charter our Community project in Montana, rebuilding the home of a local veteran in need. Paul, a veteran of both the United States Navy and the Army National Guard, served his country for more than 15 years.

But Paul’s wife’s growing health problems left her unable to work and medical bills began to accumulate. He was forced to defer regular maintenance to his Billings, Montana, house.

As a result, the home began to suffer, as did the family’s quality of life. That’s when Paul’s friends in the National Guard reached out to the local affiliate, Rebuilding Together Yellowstone County, of our national Charter our Community partner, Rebuilding Together for help.

 

Lending a Hand

On June 13, Charter Communications employee volunteers lent a helping hand in the very first Charter our Community event in Charter’s Mountain States market. “I’m just totally humbled by the whole situation,” Paul said as he watched dozens of volunteers converge on his home. “I really appreciate it. It’s really a big help to us.”

The volunteers completed a number of tasks including the installation of new windows, repainting the home’s exterior, trimming trees and addressing other landscaping needs. With the help of professional contractors, Paul’s house was also equipped with a new furnace.

 

Helping Those Who Help Us

“Veterans have given so much to this country. They are the backbone,” said Justin Link, a Charter employee and U.S. Army veteran. “It’s critical we do what we can and sacrifice for those who sacrifice so much for us.”

Link signed up for the project when he learned it would benefit a fellow veteran, but he got a special surprise when he reported for duty at Paul’s home. “He looked so familiar,” Link said. “Then, ding, a light bulb went on.” Link realized he had served alongside Paul in the Army National Guard, making the Charter our Community project that much more personal.

“It’s very rewarding. It’s humbling,” said Kim Stief, another Charter volunteer in Billings. “The most rewarding part is knowing that I’m helping someone else.” Charter employee Dan Delao agreed. “I want people to know we are a company that cares about the community,” he said.

Charter Communications employee Cera shows off the repainted front door

Charter Communications employees and Rebuilding Together staff pause for a photograph

Charter Communciations volunteers refurbish the front exterior of the home

Charter Communications employee Stacey brings a new color to the front of the home

A volunteer puts the finishing touches on the home’s new paint job

Charter Communications employee Randi cleans up the home’s backyard

Charter Communications employee Josh prepares to replace an aging window