AWCI CARES is here to help. Whether it’s financial assistance during hardship or emotional support in a time of need, AWCI CARES exists to lift our industry family when it matters most.
For two decades, AWCI CARES has stood as a lifeline in times of crisis—quietly and compassionately supporting employees and families within the AWCI community when life takes an unexpected turn.
What Is AWCI CARES?
AWCI CARES—short for Caring Action Relief in Emergency Situations—was founded in 2005 to provide confidential financial assistance to employees of AWCI member companies who are facing extreme personal hardships.
This initiative was born from the strong sense of community and mutual support within the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI). When the need for a formal support system became clear, a group of dedicated AWCI leaders formed a task force to turn that vision into reality. With an initial $10,000 donation from the Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry, AWCI CARES launched and began fulfilling its mission.
First Grant and a Growing Impact
By the end of 2005, AWCI CARES awarded its very first grant: $3,775 to help cover medical expenses for a single mother and long-time industry employee who had been diagnosed with cancer.
Since then, the program has awarded more than $462,807 in grants, offering critical aid to individuals battling serious illnesses, recovering from accidents, mourning sudden losses or facing other life-altering events.
How It Works
AWCI CARES grants are not given as direct cash payments. Instead, the program pays creditors directly to cover essential bills such as medical costs, rent, funeral expenses or utilities. This ensures that funds go exactly where they are needed most.
Applications are handled with strict confidentiality. The AWCI staff manages the intake process, anonymizing all personal and company information before review. An executive committee then evaluates each case based on need, urgency and available funding. Most decisions are made within three weeks of application.
Grants range from $500 to $8,000, and, as of today, 119 out of 130 submitted applications have received support.
Eligibility and How to Apply
Employees of AWCI member companies—or their dependents—facing a significant financial crisis can apply through their company’s human resources department or by completing the online application.
Applicants must submit documentation and have their employer complete a sponsor verification form. If further assistance is needed later, a nine-month waiting period applies between approved applications, and each specific situation is limited to two grant applications per individual.
Ongoing Support Through Giving
AWCI CARES exists because of the generosity of AWCI members, industry partners and events like the annual CARES raffle at BUILD: AWCI’s Convention + Expo. This support ensures that when crisis strikes, our community is ready to respond.
As Foundation President Pete Wilhelms shares, “We can’t do this alone. The continued success and growth of CARES depends on each of us stepping up—because when we help one family, we strengthen the whole industry.”
Other members echo this sentiment:
“CARES strengthens the bonds that hold our industry together. It reminds us that being part of AWCI means looking out for one another—not just professionally, but personally.”
“Supporting CARES isn’t just good-hearted—it’s strategic. It safeguards our workforce and sustains the values that define the wall and ceiling industry.”
Every dollar donated goes directly to helping industry families during their most challenging times. To continue this mission, we need your support.
Make a tax-deductible donation today at AWCI CARES on GiveSmart.
Help Is Closer Than You Think
Do you know someone in our industry facing a personal crisis with nowhere to turn?
Are you—or someone close to you—struggling in the wake of a serious illness, injury, or unexpected loss?
Let them know: AWCI CARES is here to help. Whether it’s financial assistance during hardship or emotional support in a time of need, AWCI CARES exists to lift our industry family when it matters most.
As Foundation President Pete Wilhelms reminds us: “Let’s make sure AWCI CARES isn’t just a name—it’s a legacy. With your support, it will be there for decades to come. Together, we can continue to build a culture of care, compassion, and community—one family at a time.” CD
Annemarie Selvitelli is the AWCI director of education and member services. She also serves as the executive director of the Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. Learn more about the Foundation Board.
