In the heart of Parker County, Texas, there’s a small coffee shop with a big mission. Major Perk, owned and operated by my wife, Rachael Watson, and myself, isn’t just a place to grab a cup of coffee - it’s a haven of gratitude, a space where every latte and espresso carries a deeper purpose.
I’ll admit that when we first started this journey, I was skeptical. Running a coffee shop is tough, and I wasn’t sure if we could juggle the business side with the generosity my wife had in mind. But from day one, Rachael made it her mission to give back to those who have given so much: our veterans, active-duty military, first responders and teachers.
Whether it’s a free cup of coffee, a heartfelt conversation or organizing community events to support local heroes, this little shop is built on more than just beans and brews - it’s built on appreciation, community and service.
Every morning, our doors swing open to welcome a steady stream of veterans, police officers, firefighters, paramedics and teachers. They don’t just come in for the caffeine - they come in for the sense of belonging.
From the moment they step inside, they’re met with more than the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee. They’re met with warmth, appreciation and a team that genuinely cares. We believe in recognizing their sacrifices in tangible ways, which is why every uniformed military servicemember and first responder gets their daily coffee on the house - a small but heartfelt token of gratitude for their service.
But it doesn’t stop at free coffee. Major Perk has become a gathering place - a space where these heroes can swap stories, laugh, vent and, most importantly, feel seen. Many have told us that it’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the feeling of being valued and remembered.
Our coffee shop isn’t just a business - it’s a movement. Through partnerships with local organizations and businesses, we’ve led fundraisers, care package drives for deployed troops and veteran-support initiatives.
And we don’t just hold occasional donation drives - we’ve built giving back into our everyday operations. Each month we select a different local nonprofit to support, ensuring that our impact reaches across different areas of need in our community. Customers can round up their total at checkout, with 100% of those extra funds going directly to that month’s featured nonprofit.
Since opening our doors in late October 2022, Major Perk has donated over $250,000 in monetary and in-kind contributions back to our community. What other small business owner with limited funds do you know who does that?
Beyond the shop, Rachael and I are deeply involved in our community. We are active members of organizations like the Rotary Club and the local American Legion post, always looking for new ways to serve and uplift those around us. Our commitment to giving back doesn’t stop at the doors of Major Perk - it extends into every aspect of our lives.
Rachael hasn’t just built a business - she’s built a family. Her employees aren’t just staff members; they’re people who share her passion for service. The love they have for her - and the mission she’s created - is evident in the way they work, in the way they interact with customers and in the way they support each other.
Of course, speaking of employees, there’s one person who works at the shop for free - me.
Despite my experience as a veteran coffee roaster, Rachael somehow manages to “forget” my paycheck every time I step behind the counter. Whether it’s brewing coffee, fixing equipment or helping with events, I do it out of love (and maybe just a little bit of obligation). After all, how can I argue when I see the real impact she’s making?
As a small business owner myself, I know firsthand that running a business isn’t easy. But for Rachael, it’s never been just about profit - it’s about people. Major Perk has become a pillar of the community, a place where servicemembers, first responders, teachers and everyday customers alike feel at home.
In a world that often moves too fast to stop and say thank you, we make sure gratitude is served daily - one cup at a time.
So, if you’re ever over our way, stop by for a coffee, a conversation and a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create an impact far greater than we ever imagine.