Building Hope—Our Day with Roc Solid Foundation

At NU-YAR Construction, we build more than structures—we build relationships. Last week, our team had the opportunity to volunteer with the Roc Solid Foundation to build a playset for Spencer, a local child bravely battling pediatric cancer. It was a day full of laughter, teamwork, and moments we won’t soon forget.

The NU-YAR Construction and Starett Snow and Landscape Services with Spencer

I first heard about Roc Solid Foundation at the ABC National Conference in Las Vegas, when founder Eric Newman shared his story. A pediatric cancer survivor himself, Eric combined his personal journey with his construction background to create an organization that brings joy to kids facing cancer through custom backyard playsets. His passion was contagious, and I knew then that I wanted NU-YAR to be part of it. We are actually the first team in Maine to build a playset for Roc Solid Foundation.

Our build day wasn’t just special because of what we constructed—it was special because of who we built it with. Spencer was there the entire day, watching and playing nearby as the playset came together. He was a little shy at first, but as the day went on, he slowly warmed up to us. One of my favorite moments was when he proudly showed me his fairy house and all the care he had put into it—it was clear this boy has a heart full of imagination and resilience.

Spencer

We were also thrilled to be joined by Ben Starrett and his team from Starrett Snow & Landscaping, who volunteered their time and generously provided all the materials needed to create the beautiful wood chip enclosure where the playset now sits. Their contribution made the final space safe and welcoming.

One special tradition with Roc Solid builds is that everyone signs the playset with inspirational messages. Our team took a few quiet moments to write words of encouragement, strength, and joy—knowing that Spencer and his family would see those messages every time they played.

There was no big reveal moment because Spencer was part of the process the whole way through. But watching him and his little brother climb, swing, and slide once the build was done was more than enough. We later heard that they were both up at 7 a.m. the next morning, racing outside to play again. That image alone makes everything worth it.

Spencer’s family was incredibly kind and gracious. They worked alongside us and made sure we were taken care of—with snacks, smiles, and genuine gratitude. It didn’t feel like we were working for them—it felt like we were working with them.

Graham, Chrissy, Spencer and Simon

We walked away from that day not only proud of what we had built, but more deeply connected to our purpose as a company. This wasn’t just a build. It was a reminder of why we do what we do. When we come together as a team—with our hands, hearts, and tools—we can build more than structures. We can build joy. We can build community. We can build hope.

Want to learn more about Roc Solid Foundation or how to get involved?  Visit rocsolidfoundation.org.