Hertzberg’s Heroes: Vol. II, Issue II — Michelle Rogel
Welcome to Hertzberg’s Heroes! Every month, #TeamHertzberg will highlight an organization or individual who exemplifies heroism through their dedication to making life better for the San Fernando Valley. Have a Hero to suggest? Submit your idea to Senator.Hertzberg@sen.ca.gov!
When Michelle Rogel first arrived in the San Fernando Valley a few years ago, she was immediately drawn to the shared sense of community — and she knew she wanted to help make a difference.
She started by helping with trash and graffiti removal, and eventually became a board member for the Pacoima Neighborhood Council. During this time, her passion for connecting with others flourished.
“I could capture 10 to 15 people behind my table, and I could talk to them about different things in the community; the good stuff, the bad stuff, and who looks out for them and cares for them and my crowd gets big every time I table. I love doing that,” says Rogel.
Michelle still volunteers — she currently helps distribute food to families at food banks, and delivers groceries and meals to people in-need around greater Los Angeles. She says that many of the people she serves recently lost a spouse or close family member, some work long hours and still struggle to survive, and some can’t afford to get to a food bank at all. Michelle says she spends her weekends making sure that her neighbors get the help they need.
“I was always tired, but I loved it,” says Michelle. “I still do.”
Recently she helped organize caravans to farms in Oxnard and Bakersfield to deliver water, clothing, sanitary items, and more to farm workers and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a small team of community volunteers, Rogel collects donations, and estimates that her team has distributed about 100 bags to farm workers for every delivery. For the past few months, Michelle and various community members will drive to a farm and drop-off the care packages.
Many people that were struggling before COVID-19 have been especially impacted during this global pandemic. But Michelle Rogel’s passion and dedication for her community has inspired her to help many of those in need. Her advocacy, community leadership, and humanitarian acts are an inspiration to the greater San Fernando Valley.
