Though the COVID-19 pandemic has put much of regular life on hold, it has not stopped people from stepping up to help their neighbors. Many businesses have chosen to add on extra process or totally alter their production to help during these times. This is nothing new for Jim Thurman, owner of All-American Roofing and Restoration, who has been volunteering to run errands for townhome residents in Royal Pointe.
“I care for a lot of those guys over there,” said Thurman. “‘I built a lot of trust with them, and I think a lot of them are scared to go out and about. So, I said, ‘Listen, I will personally make sure that if you guys need something, please contact me. I’ll make sure my staff, that is out and about as an essential business, can help you.”
Thurman and his staff have been helping deliver groceries, medications, and other essentials to residents whenever they have asked since the company began doing work for the townhome association in 2017. The Brooklyn Park native makes it a point to check in with residents regularly and make sure they have everything they need.
“I mean it’s simple. Right straight to the point. Don’t hesitate to call me. What I’d hate to have happen is if something were to happen that I wouldn’t be there for them. I make sure it’s every other day I reach out to quite a few of the homeowners there. I say, ‘If there’s anything I can do, if you want me to come over and do something for you, I’d be more than happy to do that.’ Knowing that’s on the table, and for the people, the trust that remains with us, is priceless for me as a business owner.”
While the pace of the deliveries has not dramatically increased during the last few months, the amount of conversations with residents certainly has. Being an essential business and working around the metro area, the employees have become a connection into the outside world for several residents.
“I get a lot of people that will [call and] ask me a lot of questions, or just even to talk,” explains Thurman. “[With] the social distancing and all that other kind of stuff that’s going on. I’ve talked to numerous homeowners for hours. Just about everything in general. I’m kind of like their little liaison. Their social gossiper as well. It’s been kind of fun.”
From bringing in food for the week to a simple conversation, Thurman knows those small interactions go a long way. Not just as a business owner, but for building a better community.
“We do our best as a contracting business. I’ve been a Brooklyn Park resident my whole life. 50 years of being in this community and giving back is huge for me to do that. So, if I’m able to do it, I’m going to do it for anybody.”