After the terrorist attacks of 9/11, Ruth Johnson found a way to use her extensive real estate experience to "give back" to those who serve unselfishly in our communities — not only veterans, but firefighters, police officers, teachers and healthcare workers.

For the Homes for Heroes program, she recruited real estate agents, lenders, insurers and home inspectors to provide significant discounts and rebates to the heroes of Minnesota.

She later realized that not only was it the right thing to do – it's good business too. "It is a win-win situation," she explained. Through ‘word of mouth' affiliates see their businesses growing after joining the program.

"The saying ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you' goes hand in hand with my decision to be part of the Homes for Heroes program," said Johanna Roy, a realtor in Vadnais Heights, MN. "It gives me great pride to finally give back to those that give so much to others."

The program was so successful, it spread nationwide. Heroes across the country now register on the website every day looking to save money on their purchase, refinance or residential rental. The website matches them with affiliates in their area.

(WATCH the video below, and view another and read the story in Wisconsin‘s News8000)