A community says “thank you” with a new roof

By Jenny Yu.  

A community rallied together to express their gratitude to a local veteran by gifting a free roof. 

They say actions speak louder than words, and veteran Rich Michau received quite the “thank you” when his Belgrade community came together to gift him something he desperately needed: a new roof.  

Rich, a Vietnam veteran and former law enforcement officer and firefighter, was struggling financially and couldn’t afford to fix the roof atop his home.  

“I was way past due,” Rich told 7KBZK Bozeman. 

Thankfully, Rich had some people looking out for him. Community member Patrick Franqui organized “Operation Roof for Rich,” a Facebook post that turned into a community-wide effort to provide Rich the support he needed. 

“I was blown away seeing all the support,” Patrick said. “Just one Facebook post took off and had lots of small businesses and people reaching out wanting to pitch in, and I’m just truly grateful to see the community coming together.” 

SRS Distribution donated the roof materials, and Montana-based YellowBall Roof and Solar donated the labor. Several local businesses and neighbors also chipped in, contributing additional support in the form of free gutters, restaurant and grocery store gift cards and the option to welcome a dog under the new roof! 

When the community comes together, it impacts not only the person receiving but also those giving. “It was amazing,” YellowBall CEO Justice Graham shared. “I teared up a little bit, to be honest.” 

The day ended with a yard barbecue where Rich was able to express his gratitude to his community. “This is awesome,” Rich exclaimed. “I feel really lucky to have this many friends.” 

Now that the community knows what they’re capable of accomplishing together, Rich may not be the last person to receive a free roof. Patrick stated, “It’s inspired us to make sure this happens every single year.”