(CNN) -- Gary Sinise has played many characters on television and the big screen, but one of his most important roles in real life is fighting for veterans. 

"I have a passionate love for our country. I know that our freedom is provided by men and women, ordinary men and women who take up the call and serve our country," he says. "We can never forget our defenders, and we should do everything we can for them before the battle, during the battle and after the battle when things get rough for them. We should take care of them." 

And that's just what the actor is doing through programs at The Gary Sinise Foundation. 

The nonprofit helps veterans translate their military skills to civilian careers, sponsors military scholarships and even helps build customized homes for the severely wounded. 

"If you're a quadruple amputee, you've lost both arms and both legs, you're going to have some physical challenges for the rest of your life. We want your home to be the most secure, safe, manageable place in your life," explains Sinise. In partnership with Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, homes are built with smart technology such as automated doors and iPad-controlled electronics. 

Cpl. Christian Brown, who lost both legs serving in Afghanistan, is looking forward to gaining more independence after he moves into his specialized house. 

"Sometimes I get so focused on the small things that are easy for you but hard for me," the Marine says. "And now I actually have to think my way through them. So it's actually very tiring mentally and just to be able to scoot through your house and do the things you need to do, whether that be laundry, you know, use the bathroom, get to a certain area of the house without actually having to put so much thought into it. I think it'll be relief." 
What does he do?
Gary Sinise has played many characters on television and the big screen,