Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Abel.
Sharon, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey into nonprofit work began through volunteering with the North Minneapolis Pet Resource Center, a program that operates much like a food shelf for pets and their owners. During my time there, I developed a deeper understanding of compassion, kindness, and community building. I also learned the importance of slowing down—taking the time to truly listen to people and hear their stories. That experience had a lasting impact on me.
It was through that chapter that I was introduced to Groveland. A close friend encouraged me to apply, believing I would be a strong fit for the role. At the time, I wasn’t entirely convinced, but I decided to take a chance and see what might come of it.
After several weeks, multiple conversations with board members, and a thoughtful hiring process, I was offered the position. I officially stepped into the role on March 11, 2024—marking the beginning of a new and meaningful chapter in my work.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I first stepped into the nonprofit sector, I knew I had a steep learning curve ahead of me. I was new to the field and had a lot to absorb—from understanding how food shelves operate to navigating the complexities of nonprofit work like grant writing and compliance requirements. It took time to fully grasp these areas, but with persistence and support, I grew into them.
Along the way, I was fortunate to have many generous people who shared their knowledge, resources, and connections. I made a point to be open about what I didn’t know—asking questions, seeking guidance, and staying focused on how we could better serve our community.
About a year into my role at Groveland, I began to see some internal obstacles that were limiting our ability to reach important goals. Addressing those challenges required making some difficult personnel decisions. The timing was far from ideal—but in nonprofit work, it rarely ever is.
Shortly after, we faced SNAP benefits being threatened and an ICE occupation that added even more pressure and uncertainty. Through it all, I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and support of our board. Together, we were able to navigate a very difficult period while continuing to show up for our community. We not only maintained our services but also expanded our support to partner organizations and mutual aid groups—work that continues to this day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I take pride in leading my team by example and in the strong sense of collaboration we’ve built together. The work we do means a great deal to me, especially the impact we have in supporting our community. Showing up as my authentic self each day and modeling the values I expect from others are central to how I lead.
I make it a point to never ask anyone to do something I haven’t done myself. That shared understanding builds trust, and I’m grateful to work with a team that not only respects me but also supports one another. I know I can rely on them to step in when needed, whether I’m unavailable or pulled into other responsibilities. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated and dependable group of people.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
In times of crisis, people often step forward wanting to help—and that generosity is real, meaningful, and deeply appreciated. That kind of support is critical, especially when organizations are facing sudden funding threats or responding to urgent community needs, like when the ICE occupation happened, and is very much still happening in Minneapolis.
At the same time, one of the most important things I try to share—every time someone asks how they can help—is this: the most impactful support isn’t just showing up during a crisis, it’s showing up consistently before one.
If you truly want to make a difference, find an organization you care about—something that aligns with your values—and commit to volunteering there on a regular basis. When the next crisis comes (and it will), you’ll already be trained, already trusted, and already part of the work. You’ll be able to step in immediately as a steady, reliable presence.
What can be overwhelming during difficult moments isn’t a lack of people who care—it’s the sudden influx of people who want to help but need training, coordination, and direction. In those moments, organizations are forced to make hard choices about how to spend their time: do we pause critical services to train new volunteers, or do we focus on meeting urgent needs in the community?
That’s why consistent volunteers are so essential. Mutual aid and nonprofit work don’t have an expiration date. The work isn’t always visible, and it isn’t always easy—but it matters every single day, not just when it’s in the spotlight.
And even in the heaviest moments, when things feel uncertain or overwhelming, we still have to make space for joy. Joy is not separate from the work—it’s part of how we sustain it. The greatest form of resistance is joy after all!!!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.grovelandfoodshelf.org
