2003 Jimmy Carter Work Project in Valdosta (June 2003)

Elite Cement, based in the Atlanta area, donated all of the installation materials for the 26 tile entryways in Valdosta. Owner Bill Olsen donated fast set multipurpose mix, a thinset that sets in about two hours and allows volunteers to grout the same day. He also donated almond-colored grout, which volunteers used with the white tile. Elite Sales Representative John Gallman spent two days in Valdosta teaching Habitat volunteers to set tile in the 26 homes.

From Bill Olsen, owner, Elite Building Products:

“My company not only enjoys the goodwill of donating to a worthy cause, but also benefits from enlightening the public to the use of ceramic tile for projects of all budget sizes. This exposure increases the volume of our industry in general, and installation materials in particular. Our regional presence makes this project of special importance to my company.”

Elite’s John Gallman mixes grout in a NATTCO bucket in Valdosta. (June 16, 2003)		Elite’s John Gallman spreads grout in a Habitat home in Valdosta.
Elite Cement donated almond-colored sanded grout for the project in Valdosta. (June 16, 2003)		Elite Cement donated fast set multipurpose mix for the project in Valdosta. (June 16, 2003)
Americorps member Shanti Taylor spreads Elite Cement thinset as she installs tile in the entryway of a home in Valdosta. (June 16, 2003)		Americorps member Michelle Hampton uses Elite Cement thinset to install tile in the Jimmy Carter Work Project homes in Valdosta. (June 16, 2003)