Page 12 - Builder Brief April 2025

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
BUILDING HOPE: GSABA'S COMMITMENT TO VETERANS AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
On Friday, March 28th, the Greater San Antonio Builders Association (GSABA), in collaboration with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Operation Triage, The NRP Group, Pencsak Builders, Jon Wayne Service Company, and a host of generous sponsors and donors, surprised Vietnam Veteran Ralph Gonzalez and his wife Olga with the exciting announcement that they would be demolishing Ralph's childhood home to build a new one for their family.
NAHB First Vice President Bill Owens flew in for this heartfelt surprise. A strong advocate for the 600+ local builders’ associations, Bill's support has been instrumental in this effort, and we were thrilled to have him join us.
City Councilwoman Phyliss Viagran also participated in the surprise, honoring Veteran Gonzalez and his family. A proud native of South San Antonio, Councilwoman Viagran has deep roots in the neighborhood and is a steadfast supporter of GSABA, as well as of the residential homebuilding, remodeling, and development
industry.
During the surprise meeting with the Gonzalez family, Councilwoman Viagran remarked, “It takes an enormous amount of effort, resources, and collaboration to bring together members of the community to honor Veterans like Ralph Gonzalez, who served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps during the Cold War when our nation faced the threat of nuclear war. We are excited to share this special occasion.”
The home Ralph and Olga currently reside in is unsafe, and we are eager to tackle this ambitious project. This rebuild is a testament to the power of collaboration and the deep respect GSABA members hold for our nation's veterans. What was initially planned as a home remodel has evolved into a full-scale rebuild, ensuring that the Gonzalez family will have a modern, energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable home for years to come.
This rebuild represents more than just bricks and mortar; it stands as a symbol of our community's gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by our veterans. GSABA is honored to be a part of this life-changing project.
In addition to this initiative, members of the Young Professionals Leadership Council (YPLC), led by Margo Villareal of Sitterle Homes and Mitch ViVenzio, recently dedicated a day to volunteering with SnackPak4Kids, packing weekend food supplements for students identified by their teachers as needing food security. These students may require food for themselves or their siblings over weekends while school is in session. YPLC is currently accepting peanut butter donations, which can be dropped off at GSABA.
KRISTI SUTTERFIELD
Furthermore, the Sales and Marketing Council (SMC), led by Wyndy Clark with REV Mortgage and Jessica Goldberg with Meritage Homes, recently held its monthly meeting. This year, SMC is supporting the South Texas Alliance for Orphans. Members are actively working to secure beds and window AC units for caregivers of children impacted by homelessness and are off to a great start with a recent donation of ten window AC units from MG Building Materials. A huge thank you goes to Luke and Clint Grothues for all their contributions!
Together, we can accomplish great things.
Warm Regards,
OPERATION TRIAGE SPONSORS
12 APRIL 2025 | GREATER SAN ANTONIO BUILDERS ASSOCIATION