EVERGREEN, Colo. — Spring is a season filled with hope and renewal. But 7Everyday Hero Chris Roll brightens lives year-round.
"I am known as Chris the flower guy," Roll said.
Roll is retired and spends his time helping his community of Evergreen.
"It is just giving back," Roll said.
Every week, Roll buys three dozen roses.
"And I take those roses home and put them into vases," Roll said.
Roll delivers the flowers to the residents of two Evergreen-area assisted living centers. He has been coming to Elk Run Assisted Living Community for two years.
"Oh, I think it's wonderful," a resident said.
"The flowers mean a lot to the residents. It's knowing they are important, that someone is still thinking about them, and it brightens up not only their rooms, but their lives for that day," said Clorinda Heyl with Elk Run Assisted Living Community.
"And some of them might not have family and friends nearby, so I may be the only one they see from the outside world once a week," Roll added.
Hugs and thank you cards are all that Roll needs in return.
"Even if the roses cost me two to three times what they do, the thank yous I get are well worth it," Roll said.
"He is just outstanding to even think of such a thing and bring so much pleasure to so many people," a resident said.
Roll was looking for a way to give back once he retired, and quickly found he gets more in return.
"I walk out of here and sometimes I'm a little teary just because of what's happened and the reaction I've gotten from people," Roll said.
Roll encourages others to give back too.
"Take my journey, and go buy some roses, some vases and make people happy like I do at assisted living. All you have to do is do this one time and see the faces and the smiles," Roll said.
Mitch Jelniker anchors Denver7 in the mornings from 4:30 to 7 a.m. He also features a different 7Everyday Hero each week on Denver7. Follow Mitch on Facebook and Twitter. Nominate a 7Everyday Hero here.
