Bastrop-based Troops Need Roofs works with donors, contractors, volunteers and community partners to provide free roof repairs, replacements and home-safety improvements for veterans, active-duty service members and military families across Central Texas. (Courtesy Troops Need Roofs)
Before Steve Coon led a Bastrop nonprofit helping veterans keep roofs over their heads, he managed human resources for the Texas Army National Guard and served as a company commander training wounded soldiers.
Today, as executive director of Troops Need Roofs, Coon helps coordinate free roof replacements, repairs and home safety improvements for veterans, active-duty service members and military families across the county and beyond.
Steve Coon was promoted to captain in Bryan in 2009 before deploying to Iraq.Troops Need Roofs
How it works
The nonprofit was founded in partnership with Mottco Roofing & Construction, a veteran-owned company led by Steve Moffitt, who also chairs TNR’s board of directors.
TNR reviews applications based on roof condition, insurance status, inspection findings and financial hardship. Homeowners insurance does not automatically disqualify applicants.
Veterans and families of service members who died while serving can apply for assistance or be nominated through the Bastrop-based organization.
"We want veterans to know they matter," Coon said. "They count. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Furthermore, it creates an opportunity for others to serve. Through generosity and teamwork, we can continue supporting those who sacrificed so much for our country." They count. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Furthermore, it creates an opportunity for others to serve. Through generosity and teamwork, we can continue supporting those who sacrificed so much for our country."
How to help
Community support helps Troops Need Roofs continue serving local veterans. Here are a few ways to get involved:
Donate: Contributions help fund roofing and home-repair projects for veterans. Troops Need Roofs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible.
Volunteer: The organization works with volunteers to support projects and veteran families.
Partner: Contractors, businesses and community partners can contribute labor, materials or other support.
Nominate a veteran: Community referrals are welcome for veterans who may need roofing assistance.
Vietnam veteran Earl Zirkle and his wife, Elaine, were facing the possibility of selling their Harker Heights home because they could not afford to replace its deteriorating roof. Troops Need Roofs and its partners provided a new roof at no cost, allowing the couple to remain in their home.Troops Need Roofs
Why it matters
"Troops Need Roofs began with a simple belief," Coon said. "Our service to one another doesn't end when we take off the uniform. Steve Moffitt and I served together many years ago, and today we have another opportunity to serve—this time by bringing businesses, communities, and fellow veterans together to help those who need it most. A new roof is important, but knowing that someone cares, that you haven't been forgotten, and that your service still matters can mean just as much. That's why we do this." Our service to one another doesn't end when we take off the uniform. Steve Moffitt and I served together many years ago, and today we have another opportunity to serve—this time by bringing businesses, communities, and fellow veterans together to help those who need it most. A new roof is important, but knowing that someone cares, that you haven't been forgotten, and that your service still matters can mean just as much. That's why we do this."
