We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sherree Rogers. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sherree below.
Hi Sherree, thanks for joining us today. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
My parents instilled in me the importance of perseverance — to keep going no matter what and to always chase my dreams, even when no one else believes in them. They taught me to work hard in every job, whether I enjoy it or not, until I find the path that is truly meant for me. Most importantly, they taught me to always give my best effort in everything I do.
They reminded me that my word and my name are all I truly have, so I should represent myself with integrity at all times and strive to leave a lasting, positive impression wherever I go.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I got involved in nonprofit work after experiencing homelessness myself. Living through that journey opened both my heart and my eyes to the impact I could make by offering the same kind of support I once needed during some of the hardest moments of my life. It didn’t take long for me to realize that giving back was my calling. I simply wanted to be the help my community needed.
Through my nonprofit, we provide food, clothing, toys, baby products, and many other essential items to families and individuals in need. We also offer delivery services and a pack-and-go option for a small donation to make support more accessible to those we serve.
What sets me apart is that I pour into people through lived experience, genuine love, passion, and ministry. I take the time to truly get to know those I help, especially members of the homeless community, because I understand their struggles firsthand. This work has become more than just a job — it is my passion, my purpose, and my life. I live and breathe to help others.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
The initial capital to start my nonprofit organization came from a good friend I call Mo. She saw far beyond my vision and believed in me more than I believed in myself. From the very beginning, she promised that once she had the money, she would cover all the costs to help bring my dream to life.
One day, out of the blue, I received a phone call from her telling me to file the paperwork because she had the money ready. That moment meant everything to me and is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. Her belief in me gave me the courage and opportunity to turn my passion for helping others into a reality.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my audience by openly sharing my journey and the work I do within the community. I would go live during food pantries, baby pantries, homeless feedings, and ride-alongs, allowing people to see the impact firsthand. Over time, this attracted people from all age groups who genuinely connected with my mission and began looking forward to my daily live videos and community updates.
I consistently posted flyers and information about upcoming feedings and events to keep my supporters informed and involved. I made it a priority to share every part of my journey of giving back while still respecting the privacy and dignity of those going through difficult times. I never put individuals on my live videos while they were struggling.
Through transparency, consistency, and compassion, I was able to grow a strong and supportive community around my nonprofit and its mission to help others.
You can learn more about my nonprofit and community work here: [SSMP Food Hub]
https://sites.google.com/view/ssmp-food-hub-/home
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Standing Strong Mentoring Program
