NTCA Launches Community Impact Award at Coverings

Posted Date: 4/26/2024

[Jackson, Miss.] The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) recognized the achievements of its members during the annual awards program held at Coverings 2024. This year, NTCA introduced a new award to honor members who donate their time, material, and energy in their community by bringing the community together with the use of tile.

The inaugural Community Impact Award was presented to NTCA Five-Star contractor J&R Tile for their involvement in the Uvalde Love Project – Tile Therapy initiative. Spearheaded by Wanda Montemayor of Community Art Therapy, the project aimed to bring the Uvalde community together following a mass school shooting, initiating the healing process through collaborative tile art.

J&R Tile contributed their time, expertise and resources to the project, playing a pivotal role in the project’s success. They provided consultation on product selection, procured materials, enlisted volunteer contractors, prepared the installation site and facilitated the transportation of custom mosaics from Austin to Uvalde, TX. Terry Hall, Ardex Americas, introduced J&R Tile, Inc. to the project.

Bart Bettiga, executive director of NTCA, commended J&R Tile's exemplary commitment to community service, stating, "NTCA is proud to be associated with members who understand the importance of giving back and promoting the values of our trade. The Uvalde Love Project exemplifies this, and J&R Tile's leadership in this initiative is truly commendable."

The Uvalde Love Project represents the profound impact that members of the tile industry can have on their communities, fostering unity, healing and resilience through art. NTCA looks forward to recognizing and celebrating similar initiatives undertaken by its members in the future.

For more information about the Uvalde Love Project and to view the award video, visit: https://youtu.be/cTnMUjQDng0.