The Home Depot’s Documentary Film Looks at Natural Disasters and What It Takes to Rebuild

The Home Depot, in partnership with Imagine Entertainment and BBDO Atlanta, today premiered 'Hope Builds', a new documentary detailing the devastating effects of natural disasters on communities across the US and the human spirit that compels people to help each other rebuild. 

'Hope Builds' offers a behind-the-scenes look at three major natural disasters and features first-hand accounts from associates and survivors on the ground: Hurricane Andrew, the catastrophic Category 5 hurricane which impacted South Florida in 1992; the devastating tornado that leveled much of Joplin, Mo. in 2011; and California’s Camp Fire, the deadly wildfires that took place in Paradise, Calif. in 2018. The film offers a unique view into the role corporations play in rebuilding communities in the wake of natural disasters and how it has influenced The Home Depot’s business, culture, volunteerism, and philanthropy efforts.

“Thirty years ago, Hurricane Andrew changed our business forever. But most importantly, it brought to light the power and spirit of our associates, and what we can achieve when we come together to serve the communities where we live,” said Pete Capel, vice president of field merchandising for The Home Depot and an associate of the company since 1992. “This documentary captures the early days of our disaster preparedness and response efforts, the inception of our Team Depot volunteer force, and the amazing associates, customers, partners and communities we have the honor of serving every day.”

“So many of The Home Depot folks we spoke to are 20- or 30-plus year veterans,” said Tom Kraemer, BBDO senior creative director. “And it became immediately evident just how deeply tied in they are with their communities. As associate Lloyd Jarrell eloquently points out in the film, ‘These storms go over ALL of our roofs.’”  

“Oftentimes, brands are limited to telling stories in :30 – or sometimes even :06. So it was a rare luxury to collaborate with Jessica, a talented documentarian, and actually have suitable time to tell this compelling story,” said Matt MacDonald, BBDO New York’s chief creative officer.