Sheria RaShawn Croutch, the name my beautiful ITF loves have graciously called me over the years, “Mama Ria” or Ms.Songbyrd I wear them both with pride and a smile! I graduated from Independence High School in Charlotte NC. A year later I pursued and earned my license in Cosmetology from Universal Beauty College. I later earned received my North Carolina Early Childhood Credentials 2012. I love the Kiddies!
Jobs I’ve had a few. I worked for my church summer camp program for three years. After cosmetology school I work in Total Image Beauty Salon. I switched things up and worked for McCrorey YMCA’s Freedom school Summer Camp and Afterschool Program, Yatab Performing Arts Camp, and the Middle School Matters Program. And now my current position… I serve as an Assistant Learning Center Coordinator at the YWCA Central Carolinas.
As for hobbies, I love to cook and try new recipes. Entertaining friends and family often puts me in my happy space and I so relish the beauty of God and His creations. It reminds me of the bigger picture of living and my purpose for being here.
I’ve been with Inspire the Fire since day one! I still remember our first brainstorm meeting coming up with names for the then “youth choir workshop”! We’ve been together a long time. I joined the team then and I’m still apart now for one simple reason… #Ibelieved… and I still do! Many years later… with many faces of our inner city youth flooding my mind. Our purpose is much bigger than us!
I am inspired by our participants… each and everyone of them. I want to be better and do better because I know they’re looking… because I know they’re dreaming… because I want them to succeed and never give up!