Dusty Rhoades understands the value of supporting others and adopting the
“pay it forward” model as a Vietnam veteran. So when he found
out that Greeley resident James Villegas had his AC system stolen, Rhoades
jumped at the opportunity to use his heating and AC business to help out.
“When I found out that James had called my company for a quote on
a new air conditioning unit, I was shocked to find out the entire unit
had been stolen,” said Rhoades. “As soon as he told me he
spent time in Afghanistan and was a veteran, I knew the only option to
show my appreciation to what he’s done for this nation was to pay
it forward.”
As an Aire Serv franchise owner, Rhoades was able to transfer the practical
management skills he learned in the military to civilian life as a business
owner. Aire Serv gave him the opportunity to open his own business with
veteran specific discounts and a dedicated support team.
“I became emotional when I began telling Dusty about my financial
situation and the need for a new AC unit,” said Villegas. “A
lot of people don’t look out for veterans, but thanks to Dusty and
his team, my wife and I now get to come home to a comfortable environment.
We can’t thank him enough.”
Aire Serv of Weld County installed Maratherm/ICP air conditioner with
indoor coil, equipment pad, refrigerant line set, programmable touch screen
thermostat, condensation line and labor that valued $5,141.
“The touch screen thermostat is so easy to use,” added Villegas.
“Only my wife is allowed to touch it.”
Rhoades became an Aire Serv franchise owner in July 2008 with assistance of the
VetFran program by the International Franchise Association (IFA). As a “military friendly” franchise, Aire Serv gives veteran franchise owners 25 percent
off their initial franchise fee and has helped more than 64 veterans start
their own business since 2001.
In late 2011, the IFA expanded its veteran assistance program in cooperation
with the White House Joining Forces initiative to encourage franchise
companies to assist veterans in becoming franchisees. Their goal is to
have 75,000 ownership or job opportunities available for veterans and
their spouses.