More Than Hospitality Construction: Giving Back Through DYA Cares
At Digney York Associates, excellence is defined by our role as a full-service general contractor and our commitment to making a meaningful difference in our communities. Through DYA Cares, the company’s philanthropy program, employees, partners, and supporters come together to contribute to causes that matter. Whether honoring veterans, combating hunger, supporting children in need, or promoting heart health, DYA Cares reflects our deep dedication to giving back.
Over the past year, Digney York Associates has participated in numerous charitable initiatives, ranging from hands-on volunteering to financial contributions. The team has dedicated time and resources to various causes, from disaster relief efforts to local community support programs. These efforts demonstrate our commitment to making a positive impact and reflect our belief in giving back to those who need it most. By supporting meaningful initiatives, we continue to strengthen the communities we are proud to be a part of, creating lasting change through collective action and shared values.
The People Driving DYA Cares
Behind every successful initiative are passionate individuals who make it happen. At Digney York Associates, Meredith King and Hallie Devine play a key role in fostering a culture of giving through their leadership on the culture committee. Their dedication to organizing and championing DYA Cares initiatives has helped strengthen the company’s impact in the community.
"DYA Cares isn’t just about writing a check—it’s about showing up, getting involved, and making a real difference," says Meredith King, Assistant Project Manager. "Seeing our team come together, whether for a food drive or a volunteer event, shows how much we care—not just about our work, but the people around us."
Hallie echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the impact on several communities. “DYA has the unique opportunity of getting to work in communities across the country,” Devine said. "We feel it is important to not only give back in the communities we live in, but also those that we are guests of for an extended period of time while our projects are underway.”
The impact of DYA Cares has also been amplified by the Elkay Family Foundation, whose financial contributions have helped expand the reach of several key initiatives. Their support allows Digney York to make an even greater difference in the communities they serve, reinforcing a shared commitment to meaningful philanthropy.
From coordinating donations to rallying volunteers, Meredith and Hallie’s leadership ensures that DYA Cares continues to make a meaningful impact.
2024 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Honoring Gary Munroe
Digney York Associates came together for the 2024 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk, uniting current employees, their families, former employees, clients, and a team from Hays Electrical Services. Walking as a team of 40 in the heart of the nation’s capital, they honored Gary Munroe and supported the fight against heart disease. Through collective efforts, $31,086.10 was raised to benefit the American Heart Association.
Wreaths Across America – Honoring Veterans at Arlington National Cemetery
As part of Wreaths Across America, Digney York Associates joined thousands of volunteers in a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes. Team members gathered at Arlington National Cemetery on a Saturday morning, one of more than 4,600 participating sites across the country, to lay wreaths at the graves of servicemen and women. This annual tradition is a powerful moment of reflection and gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy today.
A solemn ritual accompanied each wreath placed: Volunteers spoke the veteran’s name aloud and offered a personal thank you for their service.
Digney York Associates’ participation in this initiative was further strengthened by a $1,000 wreath sponsorship from the Elkay Family Foundation, whose generous contribution helped expand the program’s reach and impact. Through this sponsorship, even more veterans were honored, reinforcing the shared commitment to remembering and respecting those who dedicated their lives to serving the country.
Toys for Tots
Digney York Associates proudly participated in the annual Toys for Tots drive, bringing holiday cheer to children in need. Through the collective generosity of the team, 45 toys were donated, helping to brighten the season for families in the community. This heartfelt contribution shows Digney York’s commitment to giving back and making a positive impact during the holidays.
Battle of the Brands
Digney York Associates kicked off their annual Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) drive with a friendly competition against parent company Elkay Interior Systems (EIS) to see who could donate the most canned goods. DYA came out on top, but the giving didn’t stop there. Impressed by their efforts, CAFB invited them to participate in the Season’s Feedings Showdown 2024, where they secured third place overall.
With $6,675 raised and 386 items donated from 31 donors, including DYA employees, anonymous contributors, subcontractors, and support from EIS and the Elkay Family Foundation, the team made a meaningful impact in the fight against hunger.
ALIS 2025 – Giving Back in Los Angeles
At this year’s Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), DYA seized the opportunity to give back to the local community in a meaningful way. Rather than hosting traditional lunches and dinners during the conference, the team organized shuttles to transport attendees, encouraging them to purchase and deliver essential supplies for wildfire victims. Partnering with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and the LA Dream Center, Digney York helped provide critical aid to those affected by the disaster. This initiative underscored the company’s commitment to making a positive impact whenever possible, reinforcing its mission to serve the industry and the community.
A Commitment to Community
Through DYA Cares, Digney York Associates goes beyond the walls of hospitality renovations to make a profound, lasting impact on communities in need. From supporting veterans and providing for families facing hardship to organizing disaster relief efforts, these initiatives showcase the entire hotel renovation team's generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Every volunteer effort, every donation, and every moment of service reflect Digney York’s commitment to transforming hotel spaces and uplifting the lives of those in need. With DYA Cares, the company continues demonstrating that making a difference in the community is as integral to its mission as delivering exceptional hotel renovations.
ABOUT DIGNEY YORK ASSOCIATES
Digney York Associates is a hotel construction company based in Washington, D.C. They have dedicated the last 40 years to the hospitality industry, specializing in guest room renovations for luxury hotels and resorts. The company offers hotel renovation services that span from pre-construction through the construction phase of renovations, in addition to specialty services. Digney York has long-term relationships with the hospitality industry’s premier brands. They consistently deliver high-quality hospitality renovations, which increase overall property values and enhance the guest experience.