GRAPEVINE, Texas - HVAC industry veteran Joe Groh has announced the formation of the Joseph Groh Foundation. According to Groh, the foundation is dedicated to providing financial support to employees, former employees, and family members of both current and former employees of the construction and HVAC industries who have suffered permanent spinal cord injuries or other permanent and life altering disabilities.

In June of 2008, Groh was seriously injured in a bicycle accident that resulted in quadriplegia. The vision for setting up the foundation came as a result of the widespread support and assistance he received from family and friends, many of whom are also in the HVAC industry. The members of Groh’s family who have served in the HVAC and construction industries include his son, father, brother, uncles, and grandfather among others.

“I see the foundation as a way to give back to an industry which has been very good to my family,” said Groh. “It is my hope that this effort will provide both assistance and hope to those whose lives have been seriously disrupted.”

Vicki LaPlant will serve as president of the foundation while Groh will serve as the director of operations. LaPlant and Groh are both 30-plus year veterans of the HVAC industry. Sue Huckabee, Groh’s sister and a CPA, will serve as secretary/treasurer.

For more information, visit www.josephgrohfoundation.org.

Publication date: 05/11/2009