The EverBe community in Orlando came alive on August 19, 2024, as PulteGroup's Central Florida Division presented two deserving military veterans with the keys to their new, mortgage-free homes. The summer heat couldn't dampen the spirits of those gathered for a truly heartwarming event. The day concluded with a surprise reveal of the homes' backyard pools, leading to an impromptu celebration splash.
U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant Kaia Santana and U.S. Army Sergeant James Burse and their families were the grateful recipients of these custom-built homes.
Master Sergeant Santana, who served 19 years with deployments in Greece, Guam, Japan, and Iraq, was moved by the thoughtful details. Her children's bedrooms were personalized with a drafting table, a karaoke stage, and a Marvel-themed room, a testament to the care and thoughtfulness put into the construction. "It's so gratifying to know that we are appreciated for our sacrifices," she said, visibly emotional.
Sergeant Burse, a nine-year veteran with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, found his new home adorned with Georgia Bulldogs memorabilia and a signed jersey from the football team he coaches. "This is a huge blessing for me and my wife. Now we can focus on starting a family," he beamed.
This event exemplifies PulteGroup's ongoing commitment through its Built to Honor® program to provide homes for veterans who have served our country, creating spaces where they can thrive with their families.
For the last decade, PulteGroup’s Built to Honor® program has recognized and thanked returning military personnel who have been injured during their term of service by providing mortgage-free homes to veterans and their families. Launched in 2013, the program has built and donated over 80 homes, gifting more than $30 million in value, across the country. Built to Honor works in partnership with nonprofit organizations to identify veteran candidates. For more information about Built to Honor, go to builttohonor.org. Follow Built to Honor on Twitter: @BuiltToHonor and Facebook.com/BuiltToHonor.