Welcome to Support the Block 

202-500-2216

PHONE NUMBER

1926 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE

Washington DC 20020

Rose Knox

Founder & CEO

  • Rose Knox is a dynamic changemaker with an unwavering passion for serving the homeless and uplifting underserved communities. A proud graduate of Howard University, Rose has spent over two decades in Washington, DC, leading initiatives at the intersection of social impact, urban development, and economic empowerment.
  • Originally from New York with deep ties to Cleveland, Ohio, Rose has dedicated her career to transforming lives across cities including Cleveland, Washington, DC, Baltimore, and North Carolina. Her work has focused on addressing homelessness not just as a housing issue, but as a systemic challenge rooted in economic inequality and lack of opportunity.
  • With 21 years of grassroots and leadership experience in the nation’s capital, Rose founded a successful consulting company that helps businesses grow while prioritizing local hiring—creating jobs and career pathways for DC natives. Through this venture and her nonprofit work, she has built bridges between marginalized communities and sustainable economic opportunity.
  • Whether revitalizing urban neighborhoods or advocating for the unhoused, Rose leads with heart, vision, and a deep commitment to restoring dignity and hope for all.

Shavonne Holman

President

  • Shavonne Holman is a passionate leader and accomplished Industrial-Organizational (I/O) psychologist with over a decade of experience advancing workforce development and community empowerment. A proud graduate of Howard University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), she brings a people-centered, equity-driven approach to building inclusive systems that create lasting opportunities for underserved communities.
  • Throughout her career, Shavonne has led initiatives across local government agencies, community organizations, and educational institutions—designing and implementing programs that support job training, career placement, and professional development. She has helped build inclusive hiring pipelines, launched mentorship programs, and created tools that equip job seekers with the skills and confidence to thrive in today’s workforce.
  • Shavonne’s work is rooted in the belief that with the right support, everyone can access opportunity and unlock their full potential.

Kisha Lesure

Vice President

  • Kisha Lesure is a dedicated leader with a heart for service and a deep commitment to mental health advocacy. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Kisha has spent the last eight years in Washington, DC, where she has continued to build on her passion for healing and helping others.
  • With over eight years of experience in the medical field, Kisha brings a compassionate, people-centered approach to everything she does. Her work is grounded in the belief that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and she has been a tireless advocate for ensuring communities—especially those often overlooked—have access to the care and resources they deserve.
  • Kisha’s drive to make a difference stems from both personal and professional experiences that have shaped her deep empathy for those navigating mental health challenges. Known for her calm spirit, attention to detail, and ability to lead with love, she is a natural connector who brings people together with purpose. Her dedication to uplifting others shines through in every initiative she touches, making her an invaluable voice and force in the movement for healing and hope.