Family Friend Roofing and Construction in Round Rock, Texas, donated a new roof to a Central Texas veteran named Rico in November as part of a community holiday initiative that reflects the company's commitment to serving military members. The donation resulted from coordination with veteran assistance organizations including USA Cares and the ShareTheWill Foundation, with the company now planning to expand the program through future nominations.
The initiative began when co-owner Josh Bovino proposed donating a roof to a veteran during the holiday season, an idea that co-owner Lindsay Shapee described as aligning with the company's foundational values. "When we launched, we knew giving back would be a pillar of our company," Shapee said. "It's who we are." The leadership team, which also includes co-owner Aaron Bernard, built the company with service as a core principle, particularly focusing on supporting military members and veterans.
To identify a recipient, Family Friend Roofing contacted Matt Maples of USA Cares, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting post-9/11 veterans and their families. This connection led to Rico, a veteran who had previously received a power wheelchair through the ShareTheWill Foundation. The roofing company coordinated a surprise reveal at Café Java where Rico learned about the donation alongside community members, creating what Shapee described as a transformative moment for the company. "Watching our partners connect with Rico, hear his story, and truly understand his journey changed us," Shapee said.
This donation represents more than just construction services for Family Friend Roofing, which serves homeowners across Central Texas and Dallas with residential roof repair, replacement, storm restoration, and insurance claim guidance. The company views community impact as equally foundational to its business operations, with Shapee actively involved with the Five Point Board of Realtors and the company engaged with the Round Rock Chamber to strengthen ties throughout Williamson County. "Real change happens when people connect beyond the surface," Shapee explained. "Telling stories, sharing time, and building relationships, that's what brings a team closer."
The company plans to accept nominations for future veteran roof donations as it continues to grow, with the goal of expanding the initiative annually to create a sustained giving program. This first roof donation marks the beginning of what leadership hopes will become a lasting tradition of service during holiday seasons and beyond. The initiative demonstrates how local businesses can partner with established veteran support organizations to address practical needs while strengthening community connections, potentially serving as a model for other companies in the roofing industry and beyond.
