Our Mission
Building Roots Foundation is dedicated to transforming the lives of Oklahoma families by providing affordable, energy-efficient housing solutions using modular shipping containers and solar technology and offers hands-on training through workforce development opportunities in homebuilding and related careers.
Objectives
Provide affordable, energy-efficient housing solutions using modular shipping containers and solar technology to hard-working families and individuals who otherwise cannot get a traditional home mortgage approved through our lease-to-own program as well as partner with other organizations looking to help ease our community housing crisis.
Through our efforts and by partnering with local solar companies, we reduce installation and energy costs for families in need while fostering community growth and reducing their carbon footprint.
Additionally, we empower at-risk youth and residents by offering hands-on training and workforce development opportunities in homebuilding and related careers through a partnership with the Central Oklahoma Workforce Innovation Board (COWIB).
Through these strategic collaborations, we adopt a comprehensive approach to community development. We actively partner with other service organizations to leverage resources, broaden impact, and address the diverse needs of the communities we serve. This amplifies our ability to foster sustainable change, creating resilient networks of support that uplift individuals and families and contribute to long-term community well-being.
Ronnie’s Story
My mother, a dedicated single parent, worked tirelessly to provide for my younger brother, sister, and me. Her unwavering efforts enabled me to pursue higher education at Texas Christian University, where I met my wife, Kris. Following graduation, I returned to Oklahoma City where I began laying the groundwork to establish my custom home construction business. Over time, I successfully built several ventures, which inspired my family and me to deepen our commitment to giving back to the community. In the late summer of 2024, we proudly launched the Building Roots Foundation, our family charity dedicated to fostering positive change and opportunity for those in need.
Demetrius’ Story
Much like Ronnie’s story, my upbringing was shaped by the resilience and determination of a single mother raising five children in Chicago. Surrounded by the unwavering love and support of family and friends, we navigated challenges together and all reached adulthood. From an early age, I absorbed the invaluable lessons of our community—a true "village"—that success demands hard work and dedication. Inspired by these principles, I committed myself to excellence, graduating high school as valedictorian, playing collegiate football, and transitioning seamlessly into a career as a certified camp director upon earning my degree.
In 2003, I relocated to Oklahoma to celebrate the birth of my oldest daughter, embarking on a journey of public service. Over the years, I worked with the Department of Human Services, juvenile courts, and the Oklahoma County Juvenile Bureau, and later served as the director of the Crossings Community Center. These roles deepened my passion for empowering others and strengthening communities.
When the opportunity arose to co-found the Building Roots Foundation (BRF) alongside Ronnie and his family, I embraced it wholeheartedly. My career has always been rooted in service, and BRF represents a powerful extension of that mission. I believe deeply in the transformative potential of this organization to positively impact families, and I am committed to ensuring its success as we build brighter futures together.