How Gary Sinise Supports ‘Our Most Severely Wounded Heroes’
By Movieguide® Contributor
Gary Sinise has supported veterans for years through his foundation, but he recently highlighted one of his programs that helps “our most severely wounded heroes.”
“When I started my foundation in 2011, we created the R.I.S.E. program,” he said in a video for CMA. “Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment. We build homes for very badly wounded service members. These are mortgage-free, specially adapted housing for them. We’ve done about 92 of those houses now.”
Fans commented with gratitude. “I love your organization ♥️ You the best💖,” one person said. “Speaks highly of you,” another user added.
“We’re constructing one-of-a-kind specially adapted smart homes for our nation’s most severely wounded heroes,” the foundation’s website explains. “This initiative predominantly supports our Post 9/11 defenders, that were injured in combat operations or during training while performing their duties. These 100% mortgage-free homes ease the daily challenges faced by these heroes and their families who sacrifice alongside them.”
Sinise’s advocacy for vets began in earnest after he played Lieutenant Dan in FORREST GUMP. The role inspired the R.I.S.E program, as previously Movieguide® reported:
“[I was] playing a wounded veteran, showing that there was life after the injury,” the actor explained. “He’s able to pull himself up, make peace, and go on and be successful in life.”
This led to Sinise’s involvement with various veteran organizations.
“Engaging with our wounded on a regular basis…all those seeds planted there manifested itself into…the RISE program: restoring independence, supporting empowerment,” Sinise said.
One veteran shared, “It just felt like this huge burden and this huge weight was taken off our shoulders.”
In 2021, Retired Army Capt. Juan Guerrero and his family moved into a home provided by R.I.S.E.
“It’s definitely overwhelming,” Guerrero, a double amputee, told Military Times. “Every single room is accessible for me in a wheelchair.”
The Gary Sinise Foundation has several other programs that support vets, first responders and their families.
