Meet Sharoma Scurry-graves | Founder and Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharoma Scurry-graves and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharoma, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Growing up, I was always involved in community programs and truly valued those experiences. I wanted to provide similar opportunities for others, which inspired me to start a youth organization during high school. When it came time for college, I aligned my education with this goal. I attended Grambling State University, where I earned a degree in Sociology. After graduating, I enrolled at the University of Houston and obtained a Master’s of Social Work.

Throughout my journey, I had the pleasure of joining several organizations that deepened my passion for service. I joined Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the Grambling University National Alumni Association. While working in student services, I founded The Axis Youth Network in 2016. In 2023, the organization was relaunched as The Michelle Project.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The Michelle Project creates inclusive educational programs inspired by holidays and special observances. Our vision is to ensure that students in the Greater Houston area and beyond have access to educational opportunities, regardless of their socio-economic status, language, physical or mental abilities, or learning differences.

While many organizations focus on education, our emphasis on inclusion sets us apart. We strive to ensure all children feel supported and represented in our programs. We serve the community through five main initiatives: Spark 5, Space City Crew, Community Reading Corners, Claudia’s Cause, and our newest program, Linda’s Christmas Crates. This holiday season, we are partnering with community organizations to adopt families. Selected families will receive advent boxes filled with meals, gifts, and activity kits.

Starting a nonprofit organization is similar to starting a business; it requires significant time and resources, and the process can be challenging. However, the impact we create makes the effort worthwhile. I have overcome obstacles through prayer and collaboration. I strive to ensure that everything I do aligns with the purpose God has for The Michelle Project.

I also value the power of connection, which has been my greatest lesson. Many organizations in the Houston area are doing commendable work across various sectors. Rather than trying to do it all alone, I connect with other leaders, as our combined impact is greater. This is the legacy I hope to establish for this organization: a brand dedicated to service and collaboration.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston offers plenty of hidden gems, especially when it comes to food. Whenever my family visits, we make sure to go to Louisiana Fish House. We also enjoy dining at Killen’s, Southern Q, Gaitlin’s, Greasy Spoon, and Mambo’s. The Museum District is always a great time for us. We typically hop between museums and then visit another nearby attraction.

We love attending shows at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, particularly “Dancin’ in the Street: Motown and More Revue.” Additionally, we enjoy spending time at City Plaza in Spring, where there are numerous family events and opportunities to relax by the lake. Graffiti Park in Downtown Houston is another fun stop during our downtown excursions. My family and I appreciate the artwork and take advantage of the photo opportunities available there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my family, who are the inspiration behind the organization. The Michelle Project is named in memory of my late aunt, and several of our programs are named to honor other family members. Their encouragement has been invaluable.

I also want to give special recognition to my husband and children. Their support means a great deal and truly makes it possible for The Michelle Project to exist.

Website: https://www.themichelleproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.Michelle.project

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themichelleproject23