Built by those who serve. Inspired by gratitude.
Decks for a Hero honors veterans, police officers, and firefighters by building high-quality outdoor spaces at no cost. We started in Gary, Indiana with one mission: create lasting places for heroes and their families.
Driven by service, built by Kevin Strayn
Kevin founded Decks for Heroes in Gary to honor those who serve our community. What started as one person's mission to build meaningful outdoor spaces has grown into a movement supported by volunteers and donors who share the same commitment to veterans, police officers, and firefighters.
Real lives changed by Decks for Heroes
Read how veterans, police officers, and firefighters in Gary are using their new outdoor spaces to heal, connect, and build memories with family.
This deck has given me a place to sit with my kids every evening. After my service, I needed quiet space to decompress, and now I have it right outside my door.
James Martinez
Veteran, U.S. Army
My family gatherings are on this deck now. The quality is incredible, and knowing it was built by volunteers who care means everything to us.
Officer Sarah Chen
Police Officer, Gary Police Department
After twenty years on the job, I finally have a safe, peaceful place to unwind. My crew comes over, and we just relax out there. It changed how I spend my time at home.
Michael Rodriguez
Firefighter, Gary Fire Department
I didn't expect this kind of support. The deck is beautiful, and it reminds me every day that my service matters and that people care. That means more than I can say.
David Thompson
Veteran, U.S. Marine Corps
Building spaces for heroes
Every donation brings us closer to honoring more of those who serve. See how Decks for Heroes is growing in Gary.
3
Categories served
Veterans, police officers, and firefighters receive free decks built by Decks for Heroes.
$15K
Per additional deck
Every fifteen thousand dollars donated funds one more deck for a hero in our community.
1
Deck per category yearly
We commit to building at least one free deck for each service group every year.
100%
No cost to recipients
Every deck is built at no charge, funded entirely by donations to Decks for Heroes.
Questions about Decks for Heroes
Find answers about applying, donating, and how we build decks for heroes in Gary.
Ready to join us or apply for a deck?
Send us a message with questions about Decks for Heroes, or start your application today. We'll respond soon.
