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Hamel Announces an $80,000 Donation to the Fort Meade Foundation

News | Published: November 18, 2022

J. Edward Hamel announced a donation of $80,000 to the “Ready, Strong, Connected” Campaign. The contribution made in January 2018 by Mr. Hamel will provide a significant portion of the funds needed to renovate Kuhn Hall, which will complete renovations in November of 2022. The center will contain spaces with state-of-the-art technologies that focus on education and resiliency in five areas; physical, emotional, social, family, and spiritual for the benefit of veterans, active service members, and their families.

Mr. Hamel lives by the motto, “Work hard, be on time, and good things will happen.” This quote has defined Ed Hamel's life with his many successes as a veteran and in the construction industry. He believes anyone can succeed no matter the circumstance if given the right opportunity. With the donation on behalf of Mr. Hamel, the Fort Meade Foundation can help to ensure that Veterans have a place to learn about civilian trades and apply their skills to new careers.

Our community always comes together in times of need and adversity. This donation exudes the values of both Hamel Builders, Inc. and Mr. Hamel's dedication to giving back to the community.

As a veteran, Mr. Hamel has a different perspective than most on the needs of the veteran community. With this gift, the Fort Meade Foundation will enhance its ability to educate and inspire Veterans to prosper in civilian life.

About J. Edward Hamel

J. Edward Hamel graduated and founded Hamel Builders, Inc., after serving in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne. In July 1966, he joined Thomas P. Harkins, Inc. in Silver Spring, Maryland as a Project Manager. Initially, he handled the multifamily construction for the Rouse Company in the new town of Columbia, Maryland, completing approximately 800 units. In 1974, Mr. Hamel started Harkins Commercial, Inc., a division of Thomas P. Harkins, Inc. Harkins Commercial, Inc., incorporated in 1976, successfully constructed 80 projects. From 1974 to 1978, Mr. Hamel advanced from General Manager to President and Owner of Harkins Commercial, Inc. On February 16, 1988, Hamel Commercial, Inc. was incorporated in the State of Maryland and relocated to Elkridge, Maryland. Hamel Builders specializes in affordable multifamily housing and mixed-use and commercial construction in the Mid-Atlantic region.


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