U.S. Veterans Magazine highlights the profound work veterans do within their communities to impact those currently serving our country. A veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Navy, Montel Williams inspires us with his work in recognizing the sacrifices made by our service members.
Williams’ show on Lifetime TV, Military Makeover with Montel, is captivating audiences with heartfelt stories of a team of talented home improvement professionals working with Williams’ at the helm to pay tribute to the strength of military families by “transforming the homes and lives of military families across the county.” Williams shares insights about the show, the origin story and why it means so much to him.
- You served in the Marine Corps and Navy and are a stalwart advocate of service members and their families. Can you tell us about Military Makeover with Montel?
Our military servicemen and women have a proud history and an unwavering dedication to serve. They are sworn to uphold the Constitution that guarantees our freedom, often making the ultimate sacrifice when we need them most. But what happens when they return home? Who serves them when they need our help?
Military Makeover with Montel is a heartfelt initiative that offers hope and a helping hand to our heroic military members and their families. This special series is something I’m incredibly proud to lead. It’s a way for us to give back to those who’ve given so much.
In each episode, we enlist the help of conscientious designers, contractors, landscapers and other home improvement professionals to transform the homes and lives of military families across the country. These transformations are not just about bricks and mortar; they’re about restoring dignity, comfort and a sense of normalcy to the lives of those who’ve served.
Having served in both the Marine Corps and the Navy, I know firsthand the challenges our veterans face. My commitment to advocating for veteran health and well-being runs deep.
Military Makeover with Montel is more than a show; it’s a mission to honor and uplift those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
Through this series, we aim to shine a spotlight on the incredible resilience and strength of our military families while also galvanizing communities to come together in support. It’s a powerful reminder that while our service members protect our nation, it’s up to us to ensure they have the support and resources they need when they come home.
I encourage everyone to watch Military Makeover with Montel and join us in this mission.
Whether through volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference in the lives of our veterans and their families.
- How did the Military Makeover with Montel team come together, and what inspired each person to get involved?
We recognized a significant need within our military community, especially among those of us with family members who have served. Our goal was to create a show that gives back to veterans and their families. Brandstar developed the concept, and the series quickly gained momentum as many companies and individuals were eager to support our veterans. This fall, we will be completing our 40th family makeover.
- What is the process for selecting families for a Military Makeover with Montel?
Our selection process begins with an online application. Our team then conducts thorough research and interviews with the families. There are numerous criteria we consider, focusing on the specific needs of the family and their home.
- Are there some specific makeover stories you can share with us?
Every story and makeover we feature is unique and available on our website. Each episode showcases the distinct challenges and triumphs of different families.
- How do companies like Pennzoil help you fulfill the mission of making homes for veterans?
While we do not build new homes, we focus on making over existing ones to improve the lives of veterans and their families. By collaborating with companies like Pennzoil, we can provide products and services that significantly enhance their daily lives. For instance, Pennzoil helped us focus on essential maintenance for Jared Bowman’s car, whereas other projects might target kitchen remodels or home renovations.
Next, U.S. Veterans Magazine asked Pennzoil’s Brand Manager, Amanda Luce, about the company’s featured segment on Military Makeover with Montel that honored veteran Jared Bowman from North Carolina and how Pennzoil supports drivers on all journeys.
- Can you share with us the inspiration behind Pennzoil’s involvement with Military Makeover and the decision to honor veteran Jared Bowman?
Pennzoil’s involvement with Military Makeover with Montel was inspired by tremendous respect and gratitude for the courage and resilience of our veterans. By providing Jared and his family with a Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic oil change and a gift to support future car maintenance, we aimed to offer a small token of our appreciation for his service and the sacrifices he has made.
- How does Pennzoil believe initiatives like the surprise motor oil change and gift card for automotive maintenance contribute to supporting military families like the Bowmans?
We believe that small gestures can have a profound impact. The surprise Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic Motor Oil service and the Firestone Complete Auto Care gift card are more than just gifts; they’re practical forms of support intended to ease day-to-day worries for the Bowmans. We hope initiatives like this contribute to their well-being and peace of mind on the road.
- How does Pennzoil ensure that its products not only meet industry standards but also exceed expectations in terms of performance and reliability?
At Pennzoil, performance and reliability are at the core of our mission. We are relentless in our pursuit of excellence, constantly engaging in advanced research and development efforts. Our dedication to automotive lubrication quality drives us to innovate, always focusing on helping to meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers and their vehicles.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
For more information, please visit our website at militarymakeover.tv.
Read the complete article in the digital magazine here.
