1 of 1,000 Samaritans: Mandi Rogers – A Heart for Service That Inspires
Nearly twenty years ago, Mandi Rogers sat in an audience listening to a story that would change the way she saw the world. That day, when Manny Ohonme, founder of Samaritan’s Feet International, shared how one pair of shoes transformed his life, Mandi felt something stir within her—a desire to help others experience that same hope.
Since that moment, Mandi has been an active supporter of Samaritan’s Feet, helping bring comfort and dignity to people in need both locally and abroad. After hearing Manny speak, she organized community shoe drives and invited him to share the organization’s mission with her church in New London, North Carolina. Those early experiences opened the door to years of connection and service that would soon expand beyond her local community.
Mandi’s journey with Samaritan’s Feet eventually led her to international mission trips, where her passion for helping others deepened. Her first trip took her to Cuba in 2016, followed by Honduras, where she witnessed the incredible impact a simple pair of shoes could make. She recalls seeing individuals walk miles through floodwaters just to receive their new shoes, only to remove them before leaving the church to keep them clean and dry.
“It’s just so heartwarming to see that,” she shared. “It’s a humbling experience to know you’ve helped someone in even the smallest way.”
Over the years, Mandi has continued to serve as both a volunteer and leader, taking part in multiple international trips, including one to Belize earlier this year. Whether washing feet, handing out shoes, or leading others in service, she has become a reflection of what it means to live with compassion and purpose.
Recently, Mandi joined the 1,000 Samaritans initiative, a fundraising movement inviting individuals to help raise funds to provide shoes and hope to those in need around the world. For her, the decision to join was simple. “I got the message and thought, this is something I can do,” Mandi said. “Even a small effort can go a long way.”
When asked what advice she would give to others who want to give back, Mandi’s answer is straightforward and encouraging. “You don’t have to do something big. Even five dollars can help purchase a new pair of shoes for someone. Every little bit makes a difference.”
Her story serves as a reminder that meaningful impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Sometimes it begins with one simple act of kindness that grows into a lifetime of service.
