The MLK Community Center in Newport, R.I. recently honored Gilbane Building Company, a member of multiple AGC chapters, with its 2013 Corporate Keeper of the Dream award in recognition of Gilbane’s volunteer efforts in partnership with the center over the past year. The award honors those who exemplify the ideals of Dr. King and the mission of the center –a passion for equality and justice, promotion of the center and its work in the community and a commitment to creating opportunities for those needing advocates.

"I can’t begin to express how honored we are to receive this award," said Thomas F. Gilbane, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Gilbane Building Company. "As we approach the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s ‘I have a dream’ speech, it reminds us all how we are a community that needs to support each other to thrive. We’re proud to support the MLK Center and the important services it provides."

Earlier this year, a team of 35 Gilbane executives painted all the exterior railings and a significant portion of the exterior clapboard of the MLK Center as part of the company’s executive retreat. Gilbane supplied over 100 man hours of volunteer labor and provided additional labor and materials to finish painting the entire building and ensure the job was completed.

"Without Gilbane’s tremendous generosity of time, talent and treasure, this project would not have been completed for several years," said Marilyn Warren, MLK Center Executive Director. "Many of the executives connected personally with the work of the MLK Center and have become donors themselves. We are profoundly grateful."

Tom Gilbane accepted the award on behalf of the company. In addition to Gilbane, the MLK Center presented individual awards to Keeper of the Dream, David D. Schuller; and Volunteer of the Year, Donald G. Pfeiffer. Rhode Island’s First Lady Stephanie Chafee was the event’s keynote speaker.

About Gilbane, Inc.

Gilbane provides a full slate of construction and facilities-related services – from pre-construction planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive construction management, close-out and facility management services – for clients across various markets. Marking its 140th year in operation and still a privately held, family-run company, Gilbane has more than 60 office locations around the world. To find out what the next 140 years have in store, visit www.gilbaneco.com.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Carter Photography