Focus

German writer and politician Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said: "Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men."

His sentiment applies to many organizations and charities throughout the world that strive to improve others' lives. Many groups serve a small niche but have huge aspirations, such as the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, Portland, Ore., which provides recreational opportunities to those with disabilities. The camp, with help from ABC Roofing, Clackamas, Ore., was able to provide its members with a state-of-the-art recreational facility. Thanks to ABC Roofing's efforts, the camp was the first recipient of the CNA/NRCA Community Involvement Award earlier this year.

And once again, CNA, the CNA Foundation and NRCA are co-sponsoring the CNA/NRCA Community Involvement Award to honor charitable works by NRCA contractor members.

Any charitable project undertaken by an NRCA contractor member company is eligible. Projects, activities and donations do not need to involve roofing work. For example, funds raised for a cause or volunteer work at a children's hospital would qualify. Submissions should include an in-depth description of the charitable work, testimonial from the receiving charity and any supporting material (photos, video, etc.). A panel of judges from CNA, the CNA Foundation and NRCA will determine the winner and honorable mentions.

One winning charity will receive $5,000. Two honorable mentions will each receive $1,000. Finalists will be notified by Jan. 13, 2014, and the awards will be presented at NRCA's Awards Ceremony and Cocktail Reception during NRCA's 127th Annual Convention in Las Vegas. The deadline for entries is Dec. 31. For more information and an application, log on to www.nrca.net.

I encourage you to consider applying for the award—dreaming big, in this case, carries little risk and great reward.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing and NRCA's associate executive director of communications and production.