In the Greater Round Top area philanthropy is at the heart of community life.
In the Greater Round Top area, where art, culture, and history blend seamlessly, philanthropy is at the heart of community life.
In this interview series with Susannah Mikulin, CEO of the Greater Fayette Community Foundation (GFCF), we highlight the local philanthropists fostering a culture of giving and making a lasting impact by supporting nonprofits who make this area special.
For our summer 2025 feature, we spoke with JB and Jamie-Len Royer, lifelong Round Top residents whose generous spirit, strong faith, and dedication to service have made them beloved figures in the community. As owners of the legendary Royers Round Top Café, their commitment to giving back to this rural region is woven into their everyday lives, from supporting their church and local nonprofits to teaching their children the joy of helping others.
Growing up in Round Top, JB and Jamie-Len have witnessed the transformation of their hometown from a quiet rural community to what they affectionately call the “Hamptons of Texas.” They describe witnessing the amazing transformation, noting that “while growth isn’t for everyone, it has brought new energy and opportunity – all while preserving the small-town charm and generosity we love.”
Their belief in giving back runs deep, shaped by personal experience. “We didn’t have a lot growing up, so anytime we were blessed by others, it meant the world,” they recall. “Now, when we can help, we do. Whether it’s donating gift cards, providing silent auction items, or showing up to volunteer, we say yes whenever possible. For us, giving is pure joy.”
Faith is at the heart of the Royers’ philanthropy. They are deeply involved in their church – not only through financial giving, but through acts of service like preparing meals, helping with fundraisers, and volunteering their time. For JB and Jamie-Len, generosity and volunteerism are the glue that holds a community together.
“It plays a huge role,” they reflect. “Seeing friends, customers, and neighbors come together to help others is truly heartwarming. It’s about standing hand in hand with the people around you.”
Their support also extends to beloved local institutions such as Round Top Festival Institute and Pine Cove Outback Summer Camp, as well as the Red Door Fund for Mental Health, a GFCF program of which they champion every year. The Royers’ relationship with the Greater Fayette Community Foundation has given them even more ways to make a difference.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside others who are just as committed to strengthening our rural community.”
This year, their impact is being recognized in a special way at GFCF’s inaugural Community Keyholder Awards Dinner on September 18th at The Ice Plant in La Grange. The event will celebrate the bold nonprofit leaders, generous philanthropists, and community-minded businesses that exemplify the heart of rural generosity and the power of partnership.
It’s no surprise that JB and Jamie-Len were nominated by the community for the Beeman Family Community Partner Award, which recognizes a local business that actively champions local nonprofits through financial support, volunteerism, in-kind contributions, or collaborative initiatives.
Looking ahead, the Royers hope their example inspires future generations. “We’ve been given the ability to help, and we want our children to carry that forward,” they say. “We’ve been where others are, needing help ourselves, and the Lord always provided. Now, it’s our turn to do the same for others.”
For those inspired to make a difference in Greater Round Top and want to join the celebration at the Community Keyholder Awards Dinner, visit here, or call 979-797-2181 to reserve your seat.
