DEERFIELD BEACH, FL -- In support of a continuing series of specially adapted custom smart homes that are being constructed for wounded heroes by the Gary Sinise Foundation through its R.I.S.E. program, Mapei has supplied mortars, grouts and adhesives for installing tile and stone, wood, carpet and vinyl flooring in the home of U.S. Marines Staff Sergeant Jason Ross of Fallbrook, CA.

"It is a privilege for us to work with the Gary Sinise Foundation to help soldiers like Jason return to a secure and rewarding life after their service in protection of our country," said Jeff Johnson, Business Manager for Mapei's floor covering installation systems.

Mapei first became aware of R.I.S.E. (which stands for "restoring independence, supporting empowerment") through the National Wood Flooring Association's (NWFA) efforts to "play it forward" at the NWFA Wood Flooring expo earlier this year. Mapei has worked with NWFA for many years to promote the installation of wood flooring in homes and commercial projects, and welcomed the opportunity to support the association and local communities through R.I.S.E.

"We couldn't be more proud to stand with NWFA members like Mapei in honoring Staff Sergeant Jason Ross," said Michael Martin, NWFA President and CEO. "Our partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation's R.I.S.E. program is about honoring veterans like Jason, who have sacrificed so much. NWFA members like Mapei are in a unique position to provide products that can help make life for our wounded heroes more comfortable and functional."

Mapei will continue to support R.I.S.E. through the donation of installation materials for additional smart homes planned for construction in 2015 and 2016. The homes will be spread across the U.S., including locations in Tennessee, Iowa, Texas, Florida, North Carolina and California.

Because Mapei is a single-source supplier for the installation of all types of flooring, the company has volunteered to donate the installation materials for all of the floors in the smart homes. In addition to adhesives, finishes and care/maintenance products for wood, Mapei produces surface-preparation products, mortars and grouts for tile and stone, as well as adhesives and installation accessories for carpet and vinyl flooring. Mapei also has products that can be used to provide the basis for decorative concrete floors.

"We believe we have chosen a sound and effective way to support a very worthwhile cause," said Johnson. "Due to our worldwide reputation for durable, sustainable products, we can provide a lasting contribution to homes for our returned heroes. The opportunity to work with the NWFA and the Gary Sinise Foundation through its R.I.S.E. program has made it possible for us to pay it back and play it forward."