We were lucky to catch up with Shaniqua “Shan” Rose recently and have shared our conversation below.
Shaniqua “Shan”, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Looking back, what’s an important lesson you learned at a prior job
I had been working for a local chapter of a national nonprofit; there were high turnovers, many people in the community turned their nose up at me when I told them I was building up a program at the organization, but I just knew there was greatness within the organization and its Executive Director. I Know how to express myself when there were issues, I believe in perfecting anything I work on, and when there were issues that would arise I would meet with the Executive Director to discuss. The most important thing during meeting with the Executive Director was that there should always be a return on investment for anything the organization participates in, which does not always mean money. For example, we may sponsor an event, but will the participants in attendance relate to any of the services we provide. Years later I ensure that participating in sponsored events or activities has a return on investment, whether it is positive engagement with the community, registering voters, mentoring youth, or business consulting.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am Shaniqua “Shan” Rose, I currently lives in the Parramore area of Orlando with my young son and have lived in Central Florida since my high school years at Poinciana High School. I currently hold an Associate’s Degree from Valencia College, a Bachelor of Business Administration from Polk State College and a Master’s in Public Administration from American Public University System. After working for the City of Orlando for six years, I started Change For the Community (CFTC) in 2019 to leverage group action to make positive change in my community through youth mentoring, addressing homelessness and food insecurity, beautification, and more.
I am a member of several organizations and committees, including the NAACP, League of Women Voters, and National Congress of Black Women. In recognition of my community service, I have been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph Biden for her lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service, Social Justice Game Changer from the Orlando Magic, Community Hero by the Orlando Solar Bears, the Getting Results Award from Channel 6 News and many more.
A survivor of gun violence, I know the importance of public safety and quality community resources that create a safe space for everyone to live, work and play. I was a participant in the City of Orlando’s night time economy study to ensure all can safely enjoy the entertainment Orlando has to offer, and also led a neighborhood association that won Neighborhood Watch of the Year twice, a testament to my dedication.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
Like many other nonprofits, I worked a regular job, would budget and save some of my paycheck to fund the programming of the organization. I came out of my shell and learned the true meaning of “a closed mouth does not get fed,” so I began sharing the mission of my organization and vision for the community letting people know that I needed their financial support to bring the mission and vision to fruition.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I have become a problem solver, with simple solutions to complex problems and being very vocal about the community problems. It is quite interesting, a known law enforcement phrase “see something, say something,” when used in every aspect of life can create so many changes. For example, if you are driving, a street light is not working, you call to report it, then the light can be repaired, which ultimately reduces potential traffic issues.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.changeforthecommunity.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/planwithshan1/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaniqua.rose.395
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaniqua-%E2%80%9Cshan%E2%80%9D-rose-707623179
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShanRose0217