Statesville Veteran Nonprofit Rewarded For Efforts to Help Disabled Veterans Across the Country
Gallina is the co-founder and executive director of Purple Heart Homes in Statesville.
A wounded combat veteran from Statesville was named one of the Nation’s Finest 50 for his nonprofit work in June of 2023.Nations Finest 50 is a nonprofit veteran support organization that was founded in 1972. The group decided to celebrate its 50th anniversary by honoring 50 leaders from across the U.S. who have gone above and beyond to support veterans like John Gallina.
Gallina is the co-founder and executive director of Purple Heart Homes in Statesville and was recognized for his work improving the lives of disabled veterans by providing accessible housing. The group was started in 2008 after Galina and a fellow soldier, Dale Beatty, were hurt in Iraq and struggling to adjust to being disabled.
The CEO of Nation’s Finest, Chris Johnson, said he was honored to present the award to Gallina because his nonprofit gives disabled veterans a sense of dignity.
“We are proud to award John Gallina with the Nation’s Finest 50 award,” Johnson said. “His work has helped improve the quality of life for disabled veterans and their families, providing them with a sense of independence and dignity.”
Gallina’s nonprofit work doesn’t stop in the Carolinas; the organization has grown over the past 15 years and now helps disabled veterans across the country. The group provides important home repairs like wheelchair ramps to increase accessibility and independence.
Purple Heart Homes has provided accessible housing to more than 1,100 veterans and is continuing to increase its reach and impact through company partnerships. To learn more about Purple Heart Homes, click here.
About John D. Gallina
John Gallina, a native of Statesville, North Carolina, has a remarkable journey that encompasses military service, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. His dedication to his country and his community has made him a respected figure in the field of veterans' support and advocacy.
After joining the National Guard, John Gallina served his country as a General Contractor and was later deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. His courage and actions in combat earned him the prestigious Purple Heart medal for injuries sustained during his service.
Upon returning to civilian life, Gallina redirected his career towards the construction industry. In 2008, he co-founded Purple Heart Homes, a national 501(c)3 public charity. The organization's mission is to provide adapted housing solutions for disabled veterans, allowing them to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. The impactful work of Purple Heart Homes gained national recognition when John Gallina and four other Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were featured on the cover of TIME magazine in August 2011, recognized as part of The New Greatest Generation for their leadership lessons brought home.
Originally posted by DISCOVER Statesville, North Carolina via LocableUpon returning to civilian life, Gallina redirected his career towards the construction industry. In 2008, he co-founded Purple Heart Homes, a national 501(c)3 public charity. The organization's mission is to provide adapted housing solutions for disabled veterans, allowing them to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. The impactful work of Purple Heart Homes gained national recognition when John Gallina and four other Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were featured on the cover of TIME magazine in August 2011, recognized as part of The New Greatest Generation for their leadership lessons brought home.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, John Gallina co-authored the book "Wounded Homecoming: The Uphill Journey of Wounded Veterans from Battlefield to Homefront." The book sheds light on the challenges faced by wounded veterans and highlights their resilience in navigating the transition back to civilian life.
Outside of his professional pursuits, John enjoys reading, working on classic cars, and cherishing moments with his wife, Cori-Anne, and their three children. He is an active member of Western Avenue Baptist Church and participates in various organizations, including Rotary International. Gallina has also served on multiple local charity boards, including the Statesville Housing Authority (chairman emeritus) and the Statesville Chamber of Commerce. His commitment to service has been recognized through numerous awards, such as the Carolina Freedom Foundation award in 2011, the Stonewall Jackson award in 2012, the Joe's Hero award in 2012, and the DAR National Medal of Honor in 2012. He has also received The President's Volunteer Service Award in 2013 and was honored with the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service award in 2014. In 2022, Gallina was the proud recipient of the N.C. Resolute Award, North Carolina Halifax Resolute Award, and in 2023, he was recognized with the Nation’s Finest 50 Award.
John Gallina's remarkable journey and his unwavering commitment to veterans' welfare and community service have earned him respect and admiration from both colleagues and constituents alike. His continued dedication and leadership make him an invaluable asset to the community he serves.
