On April 7, 2025, U.S. Army veteran Sgt. Tanner House (Ret.) was presented with the keys to a completely donated, specially adapted home designed to meet his mobility needs following a severe spinal injury sustained during his military service in Afghanistan. The home, located in Rancho Sahuarita, was built through the Helping a Hero 100 Homes Challenge in partnership with Lennar, providing Sgt. House with the stability and accessibility he needs to live safely and independently.
The welcome home ceremony included remarks from Thomas Gansheimer, Division President of Lennar Tucson, representatives from Helping a Hero, including National Ambassador Shilo Harris and fellow recipient SSG Ross Cox, USA (Ret.), and Courtney Leon, Vice President of Marketing at Rancho Sahuarita. Guests gathered to recognize Sgt. House’s service and sacrifice and to honor his inspiring journey from injury and hardship to healing and homeownership.
“As we all know, veterans and active duty service members are really the backbone of communities in so many ways, and certainly our community,” said Courtney Leon, Vice President of Marketing at Rancho Sahuarita. “At Rancho Sahuarita, our mission is all about creating a better life, and we know that without the service and sacrifice of these brave individuals, everything we do each day would not be possible.”
Sgt. House, who was injured during a combat resupply mission, has faced numerous challenges in his transition to civilian life, including a period of homelessness. His new three-bedroom, two-bathroom home includes wider doorways, a roll-in shower, and other accessibility features that will enable him to live independently and safely. With a passion for helping other veterans find healing through outdoor activities and service, Sgt. House continues to dedicate himself to giving back—now with the stability of a permanent home.
“This home is a dream come true,” House said at the project’s groundbreaking in October. “It’s more than a house—it’s a place to continue moving forward.”
“Rancho Sahuarita has always been about building a strong, connected community—and that includes honoring and supporting our veterans,” said Jeremy Sharpe, Managing Partner of Rancho Sahuarita. “Helping bring this home to life for Sgt. House was a powerful experience, and it reinforces our commitment to building places where people feel seen, valued, and supported. We’re honored to play a part in his journey and proud to stand alongside partners who share our vision.”
The Helping a Hero 100 Homes Challenge, launched by Johnny Morris, Founder of Bass Pro Shops, brings together individuals and organizations across the country to support the construction of adapted homes for severely wounded veterans of the Post-9/11 Global War on Terror. Sgt. House’s home in Rancho Sahuarita marks an important milestone in that effort, made possible through the support of Helping a Hero, Lennar, Rancho Sahuarita, Bass Pro Shops, and Patriot Charities.
For more information about the 100 Homes Challenge or to make a donation, please visit HelpingAHero.org.