At A.G. Williams Painting Company, community service has always been at the heart of what we do. That belief inspired the creation of the A.G. Williams Home in Need program, an initiative designed to help deserving individuals and families facing hardship by providing donated home improvement services.
For over a century, we’ve servedhomeowners and businesses across Westchester and Fairfield Countieswith professionalism and care. But beyond painting walls and restoring properties, we believe in honoring those who dedicate their lives to serving others. One of the most meaningful early recipients of this program was Sergeant Roger Petrone, a respected member of the Greenwich Police Department and a true local hero.
A Local Hero’s Legacy of Service
Sergeant Roger Petrone devoted his career to protecting and serving the people of Greenwich, Connecticut. Before joining the police department, he began his public service as a fire department dispatcher, a role that first introduced him to the power of helping others in moments of need.
Throughout his 17 years with the Greenwich Police Department, Sergeant Petrone was known for his leadership, kindness, and bravery. On September 11, 2001, when the unthinkable happened, he volunteered without hesitation to assist in New York Harbor. Piloting the Greenwich police boat, he helped patrol and secure the waterways into the night. His commitment to duty and compassion for others were defining traits, both on and off the job.
A Community Rallies Around a Beloved Officer
Several years after 9/11, Sergeant Petrone faced an unexpected and heartbreaking challenge: a diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This progressive neuromuscular condition weakens muscles and eventually impacts mobility, speech, and breathing.
In true Greenwich fashion, the community stepped forward in full force to support him and his family. Fundraisers, bike rides, softball tournaments, and awareness walks became fixtures of local life, all dedicated to helping the Petrone family and advancing ALS research. Organizations such as theGreenwich Police Departmentand the Greenwich MilitaryCovenant of Careworked tirelessly to provide ongoing assistance.
It was within this spirit of community that A.G. Williams Painting Company joined the cause.
The Home in Need Project: Transforming Sergeant Petrone’s Home
In 2011, A.G. Williams Painting Company selected Sergeant Petrone as the first recipient of its Home in Need award, recognizing his selfless dedication and years of service. The project was designed to provide meaningful improvements to his family home, a historic 1800s farmhouse in Connecticut.
Working closely with the Greenwich Police Department and the Covenant of Care, the A.G. Williams team donated its time, expertise, and equipment to restore comfort and beauty to the Petrone residence.
The first phase of the renovation included a complete interior painting of the home’s first floor, the kitchen, hallways, and den, all carefully repainted to refresh the space while preserving its warmth and historic charm. The retail value of the painting services totaled approximately $15,000, all provided at no cost to the family.
As part of the next phase, the A.G. Williams crew returned to power wash and repaint the farmhouse exterior and the adjoining barn, a beloved part of the property that still housed families of turkeys, chickens, and goats. This work not only improved the home’s appearance but also helped protect the structure from seasonal weather and wear.
Continuing a Tradition of Giving Back
The Home in Need program remains a cornerstone of A.G. Williams Painting Company’s community outreach efforts. Over the years, the initiative has provided painting and renovation services to individuals and families across Westchester and Fairfield Counties who have faced hardship or health challenges.
From assisting veterans and first responders to supporting community nonprofits, the program reflects the same values that have guided A.G. Williams for more than 100 years, integrity, craftsmanship, and compassion.
Every brushstroke tells a story, and through Home in Need, A.G. Williams continues to write chapters of hope, gratitude, and community pride.
Partnerships That Made a Difference
Community partnerships were key to the project’s success. A.G. Williams Painting Company collaborated with several local and national organizations that generously contributed materials and services:
- Ring’s End, a New Canaan-based lumber and building supply company, donated premium paint and supplies.
- Benjamin Moore & Co., a trusted name in quality coatings, also provided paint to complete the interior and exterior work.
- Ed’s Garage Doorsdonated new barn doors, helping to restore the farmhouse’s timeless appeal.
These contributions exemplified the collaborative spirit that defines Fairfield County, a community where neighbors, businesses, and organizations come together to lift one another up.
