Hearts on the Greens helps to keep families together

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Hearts on the Green charity golf tournament raises funds for Ronald McDonald Houses of greater Dallas area.

The roofing industry has long been recognized for its generosity and commitment to giving back. At the heart of this effort is the Roofing Alliance, the foundation of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). With a legacy spanning over two decades, the Roofing Alliance supports key industry initiatives focused on research, technology, education and philanthropy.

One of its most meaningful partnerships is with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). In April 2017, the Roofing Alliance formally committed to a partnership with RMHC, pledging to inspect, maintain, repair, and when needed, replace roofs on the 165 standalone Ronald McDonald House programs across the country.

Since then, commitment has grown beyond just maintaining roofs. The roofing industry has embraced RMHC as a national charity, offering not only roofing services but also fundraising support to help sustain and expand their work. A recent example was the Hearts on the Greens fundraiser held April 7, 2024, in Grapevine, Texas. Sponsored by IB Roof Systems and several other roofing companies, the event brought together roofing professionals for a day of golf and giving.

The event was led by Jason Stanley, a longtime Roofing Alliance and NRCA leader, who saw the opportunity to support the Ronald McDonald Houses in the greater Dallas area through a high-energy industry event. His vision was to raise funds not just for maintenance but for growth, helping more families find shelter and support during their most challenging times.

The partnership with RMHC is a natural extension of the generosity of the industry and the mission of the Roofing Alliance. Ronald McDonald Houses offer much more than a place to stay. They provide private rooms, meals and emotional support to families with sick children being treated at nearby hospitals. While families are asked to pay a small fee to stay, no one is turned away if they cannot afford it.

The Roofing Alliance and NRCA members have committed to performing regular roof inspections, ensuring proper maintenance and stepping in for repairs or replacements as needed. Roof replacements are handled as individual projects with participation from multiple contractors, and many manufacturers and distributors contribute materials free of charge.  There is always a need for additional funds for new builds and remodeling initiatives.

Jason Stanley highlighted the growing need for expansion. “The demand for rooms at Ronald McDonald Houses is higher than ever. Many times, there are not enough rooms for the families who need them. We want to help them expand and maintain their properties along with new homes,” he said.

The Hearts on the Greens event drew many industry leaders including former NRCA CEOs Bill Good and Reid Ribble, as well as current CEO McKay Daniels. Bill Good continues to support the Roofing Alliance projects and fundraising efforts nationwide. “We are working with companies like IB Roof Systems and several others to obtain product, installation and overall funding like the Hearts on the Greens fundraiser,” said Bill, now a consultant to the Roofing Alliance.

When asked how important fundraisers like this are, Bill was clear. “Very important. We are seeing an increasing demand for rooms. So many families need to be close to their children during treatment, and as an industry we are stepping up through fundraising and product donations.”

“This would not have been possible without our sponsors,” noted Jamie Treglio, IB Roof Systems marketing director. Event sponsors included:

• Platinum sponsors – Supreme Roofing, RJH & Associates, REI Engineers
• Gold sponsors – Roofing Alliance, Anchor Products, HCG Hollon + Cannon Group
• Silver sponsors – Sunbelt, Georgia-Pacific, Beam Professionals, Sun Commercial Roofs, NARI
• Food and drink sponsors – RJH & Associates, Tarrant Roofing, TRUFAST, IIBEC

The event also featured a special guest, Ronald McDonald himself, whose visit brought smiles and laughter to attendees. His presence added a sense of joy and purpose to the event, reinforcing the mission of RMHC and the industry’s commitment.

While there were prizes awarded for longest drive, best putt and low scoring teams, the true winners of the day were the children and families who continue to receive care and support. Through the giving nature of the roofing community and efforts like Hearts on the Greens, the industry continues to make a meaningful difference, showing just how strong the heart of roofing truly is.