Letter by Stephen E. Sandherr

AGC in the Community is the result of overwhelming response to a challenge issued by AGC’s 89th President, Doug Barnhart. Doug is a pillar in his community and has always believed that giving back was the best way to express thanks. As part of his presidency, he urged all AGC members and Chapters to make public service a priority.

We were inundated with submissions to AGC in the Community. Some service programs had been in effect for years, while new efforts showed promise of a long-term commitment. For example, the AGC of South Dakota Building Chapter embraced Operation Opening Doors several years ago, and has since provided X new and retrofitted homes to wounded soldiers returning from war whose injuries prevent them from living comfortably in their existing homes. The Executive Leadership Council, formerly the Young Constructors Council, will also utilize this program to make a difference in the lives of the men and women who sacrifice for our safety and freedom, and their families.

Thankfully, we will not always have wounded veterans returning to homes that no longer work for them. But there will always be friends in need. We have an opportunity to help thousands of people across the country with their urgent needs while also planning for their future needs by providing clean drinking water, safe and reliable infrastructure, sound buildings and world-renowned monuments. This book is proof of the impact we can make when we work together to build stronger communities.

Stephen E. Sandherr
AGC Chief Executive Officer