Strengthening communities together

By Dani Sheehan.

CertainTeed’s partnership with Susan G. Komen demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving awareness and creating lasting change.

Since 2020, CertainTeed has partnered with Susan G. Komen to raise awareness and support for breast cancer research and advocacy, a collaboration that embodies the shared values and missions of both organizations. In a recent interview with James Dimitrakopoulos, who leads product management and technical services for CertainTeed’s gypsum and insulation businesses, we learned more about this year-round initiative and how this partnership brings communities together.  

Initially established by Continental Building Products before CertainTeed’s acquisition, this partnership with Susan G. Komen has become a cornerstone of CertainTeed’s commitment to making a difference. As James shared, “We wanted to continue to foster one of the most important and valued partnerships we had.”

A year-round initiative

Unlike many campaigns that focus solely on Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, CertainTeed’s program initiative continues throughout the entire year. For each piece of GlasRoc® exterior sheathing gypsum board sold between October 2024 and October 2025, CertainTeed donates $0.09, with a guaranteed minimum contribution of $120,000 regardless of the quantity of pieces sold. “Every year, we look forward to donating to this important cause and since the partnership began in 2020, we have exceeded donations of more than half a million dollars,” James explained.

While drywall is typically not a forward-facing product that people will see as they sit in their office each day, there is some significance in the GlasRoc exterior sheathing proudly displaying the pink ribbon. James explained, “GlasRoc sheathing is gypsum’s one chance, or the largest opportunity to be public facing. It’s a product that’s installed on the exterior of a building, and for a period of time during construction it’s visible before the building’s exterior is enclosed.”

If you live near Columbus, Ohio, you may have had a chance to see the GlasRoc product – Ohio State University Wexner Hospital is currently the largest hospital being built in the Midwest and was presented at CertainTeed’s North America Gypsum Trophy event.

Shared values, aligned missions

For CertainTeed and its parent company, Saint-Gobain, the purpose of this partnership is clear: “to transform the world into a better, more sustainable home through an ever-evolving range of groundbreaking building solutions.” As James elaborated, “Building a better home starts with people. We have a very strong campaign and purpose to make sure that the health and safety of our employees come first.” This aligns closely with Susan G. Komen’s mission to reduce breast cancer deaths and raise awareness, which places people at the heart of the campaign.  

Susan G. Koman has a 360-degree approach, donating to research, care, action and community programs. This comprehensive strategy has led to significant advancements, including the development of 19 FDA-approved breast cancer drugs and the provision of more than 52,000 services through patient support programs. Additionally, their grassroots advocacy has introduced impactful legislation in 29 states.

By leveraging innovative products like GlasRoc exterior sheathing and aligning with a mission-driven organization, CertainTeed is making strides toward strengthening homes and communities and increasing breast cancer awareness. As James emphasized, “The main motivation is to drive awareness,” ensuring that this initiative continues to make a difference in the lives of many.

Learn more about CertainTeed’s pledge to Susan G. Komen and consider donating to the incredible cause yourself.