In the fast-paced world of construction, where steel and concrete shape skylines, JE Dunn Construction stands out as a beacon of social responsibility and community engagement. Founded in 1924 by John Ernest Dunn Sr., JE Dunn has evolved into a family and employee-owned powerhouse in the commercial construction industry. With more than 4,000 dedicated employees spread across 26 offices nationwide, the company has mastered the art of not just building structures but fostering positive change within the communities they touch.
From its inception, JE Dunn Construction embraced a core value of giving back, perpetuated by the Dunn family’s commitment to community enrichment. A prime example harks back to World War II, when the company’s founder opted to construct facilities to support military personnel and their families at reduced costs, refusing to profit from the turmoil of the times. This ethos, rooted in compassion and integrity, continues to resonate nearly a century later.
“At JE Dunn, we believe in enriching lives through inspired people and places. Our community service efforts, development programs for employees and the buildings we create all contribute to this vision,” shares Clay Creaser, vice president and Phoenix office lead for JE Dunn Construction.
The Dunn Family Foundation, established in 1981, serves as the organization’s formal conduit for philanthropy and community betterment. It channels the company’s values of integrity, generosity and compassion into targeted initiatives that uplift humanity. The Foundation’s approach is expansive, spanning national workforce development and education programs as well as local causes that address health and well-being, social responsibility and veteran support.
In Arizona, JE Dunn Construction’s community support is palpable. Organizations like the Fighter Country Foundation, Valley Partnership Community Project, American Heart Association, United Way Valley of the Sun, Silent Witness and Fiesta Bowl Charities are just a few of the beneficiaries of their largesse.
JE Dunn’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond monetary donations; it’s about rolling up sleeves, getting involved and making a tangible difference. With jobsite teams that embrace a spirit of volunteerism, the company’s reach is felt directly at the grassroots level. Whether it’s dedicating time to the Salvation Army, participating in the AHA Heart Walk or aiding in school supply drives, the teams are the living embodiment of the company’s values.
Moreover, JE Dunn collaborates with partner organizations like the American Builders Association, NAIOP and Valley Partnership to magnify the impact of community initiatives. This interconnected approach amplifies the ripple effect of positive change.
At JE Dunn Construction, volunteerism isn’t just encouraged — it’s celebrated. The company’s employees are empowered to champion the causes they’re passionate about. With flexibility and unwavering support, last year saw an impressive 92% of Arizona-based employees participating in more than 21 community events.
“I love working for a company that supports me giving back to the community I live in,” affirms Kirk McClure, senior client solutions manager at JE Dunn Construction. Kirk is a living testament to the company’s commitment, serving on the boards of Fighter Country, ASU National Alumni and Fiesta Bowl Committee.
JE Dunn Construction’s generosity has enabled a multitude of positive transformations that reach even further. The Fighter Country Foundation, dedicated to supporting the military community at Luke Air Force Base, has been a primary benefactor. Over the past two years, the company’s contributions exceeding $100,000 have fueled various projects, from enhancing childcare facilities to creating a Med Group Resilience Room.
Furthermore, the company’s partnership with Valley of the Sun United Way resulted in raising more than $20,000 in 2022 alone, underscoring their commitment to advancing the common good. An employee match program further multiplies the impact, with the firm pledging to match employee donations up to $1,000,000 in 2023.
JE Dunn Construction’s engagement extends to a diverse range of events and sponsorships. From hospital foundations to trade organizations, its presence is felt across the community spectrum. By channeling fundraising efforts toward entities like the United Way and Fighter Country, the company raised nearly $100,000 in 2022 to bolster initiatives that enhance lives and catalyze positive change.
As the company looks ahead, its national vision for community impact promises to unify corporate and employee engagement across markets. Through the dedication of community ambassadors, local employees who champion community causes, JE Dunn Construction’s commitment to being a force for good in the world is poised to grow even stronger.
In a world where businesses often prioritize profits, JE Dunn Construction stands out as a shining example of corporate citizenship. For nearly a century, its dedication to building inspired people and places has transformed communities and enriched countless lives. Through unwavering philanthropy, employee engagement and a commitment to making a lasting impact, JE Dunn Construction’s legacy continues to be one of compassion, integrity and positive transformation.
Tyler Butler is a chief social impact officer for a publicly traded corporate portfolio where she leads programs that positively impact humanity. She is also the founder of 11Eleven Consulting, and she is often cited as a subject matter expert by Forbes, SHRM, Entrepreneur, U.S. News & World Report and more.
Photo courtesy of JE Dunn Construction
