Building a stronger community

By Jesse Sanchez.

A model for roofing industry outreach that’s more than just shingles and nails.

When it comes to community service in the roofing world, the Oregon Council of National Women in Roofing (NWIR) doesn’t just talk the talk — they put on the boots and get to work. The Oregon Council has built a reputation for hands-on outreach.

For the Council, community involvement isn’t an add-on — it’s their foundation. “Oregon Council is renowned for outreach and that's what we do. That's kind of our specialty,” said Stephanie Baird, general manager at Bliss Roofing and a founding member of the Oregon Council. “There’s lots we can do, but I believe strongly in giving back in a roofing sort of manner.”

Stephanie’s passion is more than just talk. From assembling donations of underlayment and shingles to organizing labor crews and coordinating with media outlets, she’s helped lead numerous efforts to provide critical roofing services to people who couldn’t otherwise afford them. And she’s not alone. Rachel Garcia, Oregon Council Chair and director of contractor services for Malarkey Roofing Products, said community service has always been a core value for the group.

“It's always been our core value of giving back to the community,” Rachel said. “There's nothing better than helping our community in a way that they really need. Everyone needs a roof over their head, right? And that's what we do.”

Their most recent project, highlighted in the first article in this series, was just one of many. What makes the Oregon Council stand out is how seamlessly they blend cause marketing, industry collaboration and heartfelt community impact. “Everyone comes together and kind of sets aside competition,” said Rachel. “We're here to give back and we can do that better with all of us coming and joining together.”

The secret, according to Stephanie and Rachel, isn’t just in donations or good intentions — it’s about consistent leadership and a team that complements one another. Rachel puts it simply: “We all have our strengths and what we're good at. So find people that compliment you.”

The NWIR Oregon Council shows how an industry can be a force for good. Through projects that address real needs in their community, they've built more than just roofs — they've built trust, visibility and a blueprint for how local industry can uplift those around them.