SLHS PTSA Food Pantry | Made in Reston | The Great C Mission
Rosa Simon has dedicated 17 years of service to supporting vulnerable individuals and families across Reston, Herndon, and surrounding communities. Known for her compassion, energy, and ability to respond quickly to emerging needs, Rosa is a trusted leader and connector within the community, particularly among immigrant and Spanish-speaking residents.
Rosa is a cornerstone volunteer at the South Lakes High School PTSA Food Pantry, where she serves nearly every week of the year. In 2025 alone, she personally welcomed more than 9,500 students and families, helping create a space where individuals feel seen, supported, and respected. Through these interactions, she identifies additional needs such as clothing, household goods, and other essentials, and works through her extensive network to ensure those needs are met.
During the pandemic, Rosa founded Made in Reston with her children, producing and distributing over 1,400 handmade masks. That effort has since evolved into daily outreach, with Rosa preparing and delivering meals to approximately 50 unhoused individuals each day. She also mobilizes volunteers to provide clothing, hygiene items, and seasonal supplies to those in need.
Three years ago, Rosa expanded her impact by founding The Great C Mission, an organization focused on direct outreach and long-term support. Through this initiative, she helps individuals access essential resources, including food, clothing, documentation assistance, and connections to community services that promote stability and independence.
In addition, Rosa co-administers four Reston Shares Facebook groups, connecting more than 4,000 neighbors to share resources and support one another. Her leadership has fostered a culture of generosity and responsiveness across the community.
Through her tireless service and deeply personal approach, Rosa has impacted thousands of lives, strengthening connections and ensuring that those most in need are met with dignity, care, and hope.
“I am honored to nominate Rosa Simon as Community Champion for the Hunter Mill District. Rosa has done and continues to do so much for so many in our community, and she has done so with remarkable humility and good humor. In fact, when approached about this recognition she pushed back “it’s not just me – I’m a part of a team!” True, but she is truly a team leader and a power for good in Hunter Mill.”
– Supervisor Walter Alcorn