A Heartfelt Journey: Roger Hawkins and the Rosebud Reservation

Mercer Transportation is once again proud to support the annual donation drive to the Rosebud Reservation. This year, we celebrate the dedication and compassion of Roger Hawkins, one of our esteemed owner-operators, who has volunteered his time and truck for the past two years to deliver essential supplies to those in need. His commitment not only embodies the values of Mercer but also inspires us all to give back to our communities.

Roger’s daughter, Kathleen Hawkins, shares her deep pride and admiration for her father’s involvement in this charitable effort. “When I heard about my dad doing this donation load to the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota, it made me feel so proud of him,” she says. “I have always been the type of person to help others, and seeing him doing this for the last couple of years shows me where I get this from. It pushes me to be a better person every day.”

Kathleen recalls the excitement her father felt when he first learned about this opportunity. “He was so excited, it was like nothing he had ever done before. He had honestly no idea what to expect from it, but now he has grown such an amazing relationship with not only the wonderful people over at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, but everyone he meets over in South Dakota. They are excited every year when he shows up.”

Roger’s journey to the Rosebud Reservation is more than just a delivery; it’s an experience that has profoundly impacted him. “I think it changed him as well after his first time running this, realizing that something you do not look at as such a big deal, and seeing what the result is, what a difference he is making taking all of those donations,” Kathleen explains. “I love seeing his excitement, just pure joy every year.”

Growing up, Kathleen witnessed her father’s unwavering dedication to his family. Despite working overnight or second-shift jobs before he started driving a truck in 1999-2000, Roger always prioritized being there for his children’s activities, especially Kathleen’s basketball games. “He would do everything to be there, no matter how tired or worn out he was,” she remembers. “Even when he started driving a truck, times he could have been out there making more money instead of having to come home, he would make sure he was home for everything important.”

Roger’s commitment extends beyond his children to his grandchildren, making sure he is a significant part of their lives despite the challenges of being an over-the-road truck driver. “He always makes sure he is there,” Kathleen says with pride. “I am so very proud to call him my dad. He shows me every day how to make myself better, believe in myself, and reminds me that when I do things, no matter how little they seem to me, to someone else, it is the world.”

This year’s donation collection took place from June 1st to June 4th, and Roger picked up the trailer on June 6th, heading out west to the Rosebud Reservation. The delivery, which occurred on June 8th, included essential items such as furniture and appliances that are hard to find in the community. Items like bedding, mattresses, dishes, microwaves, and toaster ovens. Coffee pots and towels are especially popular. These donations, coordinated by Donna and Emily with the help of Marian One Star at the reservation, are distributed among the 23,000 residents within hours of arrival.

The lead organizer, Donna Bowling and Emily, her daughter, have expressed their deep gratitude for Mercer’s support. “This whole mission has pulled forth so many amazing, small miracles. Mercer was the biggest miracle of all,” Donna said. Emily added, “We are very, very appreciative of Mercer and Roger… It really gives us pep in our step and restores faith in people when you know that there are all these people doing such good things.”

Mercer Transportation is honored to have owner-operators like Roger Hawkins, whose generosity and dedication make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. We are immensely proud of Roger and all our volunteers who contribute to such meaningful projects. Their efforts exemplify the true spirit of Mercer, reminding us all of the power of compassion and community.

Thank you, Roger, and everyone involved in making these donations possible. Your efforts truly make a difference and inspire us all to continue supporting our communities with love and care.

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