About SproutUp
Rooted in Community. Growing with Purpose.
At Sprout Up, we believe that wellness is more than access to food—it’s about creating the conditions for individuals and families to flourish. Born from a simple desire to respond to food scarcity in South Miami-Dade, our work has evolved into a holistic approach to community wellness, empowerment, and resilience.
Our Story
Sprout Up began as a heartfelt conversation between friends and co-founders Natalie Rowe and Sharon Coleman—two women deeply rooted in their South Dade community, who saw the gaps families were falling through and decided to do something about it. What started as a grassroots effort to meet urgent food needs quickly blossomed into something much more.
Today, Sprout Up is a trusted hub where families can not only access nutritious food but also social-emotional learning, health education, mental wellness support, parenting workshops, and youth programs that open doors to a brighter future.
Whether it’s through hands-on gardening classes, family engagement sessions, or simply offering a safe space to be seen and heard, Sprout Up is here to support the whole person and the whole community.
Sprout Up is committed to responding to food scarcity in underserved communities by providing access to healthy food, impactful programs, and essential services.
Mission
We envision a future where wellness is a priority and every person can flourish.
Vision
Our Core Values
Integrity
We act with honesty and accountability in everything we do.
Trust
We build safe, respectful relationships with our community.
Empowerment
We equip people with the tools and knowledge to take control of their wellness.
Service
We center the needs of the families and communities we serve.
Meet The Team
Natalie Rowe
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Leahna McCartney
Operations Director
Jameel Cook
Food Distribution Lead
Lacoria McNear
Food Distribution Lead
Vanessa Pons Gordon
Grants Manager
Our Board of Advisors
Felix Harris
President
Marlene Dordoye
Vice President
Juan Reyes
Treasurer
Debra Recupero
Secretary
Troy Maxey
Member, Board of Directors