Volunteers from GAF’s new Newton facility recently joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County to complete several critical construction tasks on a new home that will soon provide safe, affordable housing for a local family in Hesston, Kan.
Working alongside Habitat for Humanity staff, the team insulated windows, installed rafter insulation baffles in the attic, added stud guard safety plates, and caulked the home’s exterior in preparation for painting, moving the project forward while also ensuring the home is resilient, comfortable, and fully ready to welcome its future residents.
“We’re incredibly grateful for GAF’s continued support of Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and our mission to help local families achieve safe, affordable housing,” said Ron Flaming, Chairman of Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County. “From investing their time and resources to building meaningful relationships within our community, GAF has demonstrated a genuine commitment to Harvey County. Their partnership has made a lasting impact on the families we serve, and we’re proud to work alongside an organization that is dedicated to strengthening our community.”
For GAF, the volunteer day is part of a broader effort to build meaningful, long-term relationships in Harvey County as the company continues development of its new state-of-the-art shingle manufacturing facility in Newton. The facility is expected to begin production in 2027 and reach full production capacity by mid-2029, creating more than 130 high-skilled jobs in the region.
“We’re proud to support Habitat for Humanity and the important work they do to help families achieve resilient, safe, and stable housing in Harvey County and across the country,” said Chris Peetz, Chief Operations Officer at GAF. “Opportunities like this allow our team members to use their skills and expertise to make a meaningful difference in the communities where we live and work. As we continue to grow our presence in Newton, we’re committed to being a strong community partner and supporting initiatives that create lasting value for local families.”
GAF’s commitment to Harvey County extends beyond a single volunteer day, with the company supporting a range of community-focused efforts across the region, including regular volunteer initiatives and annual roof donations. In collaboration with partners such as Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and Habitat for Humanity Wichita, GAF has helped expand access to safe, affordable housing by donating roofing systems and supporting volunteer build efforts that create stronger, more resilient homes for families in need.
In addition to supporting housing initiatives, GAF is also investing in the future of the skilled trades in the Newton area. In partnership with local contractor Rhoden Roofing, the company has created the Promise Scholarship, which will award four students with scholarships enrolling in WSU Tech’s Construction Technology program. The scholarship is designed to support students pursuing careers in construction and related trades, creating educational opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers while helping build a stronger pipeline of local talent.
These efforts are part of GAF Community Matters, GAF’s social impact initiative focused on building resilient communities by leveraging roofing expertise, resources, and products to make a positive, lasting difference.
