TeeJ Mercer, the dynamic founder of Move-In Day Mafia, was recently spotlighted on the nationally syndicated Sherri talk show hosted by Sherri Shepherd. During the April 9th episode, Mercer was honored in the “She’s the Boss” segment for her groundbreaking work helping low-income and former foster youth transition into college life at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
A proud Howard University alum and 25-year Hollywood veteran, Mercer launched Move-In Day Mafia in 2022 to provide fully decked-out dorm rooms and ongoing monthly care packages to students who have aged out of foster care or face housing insecurity and extreme financial hardship. The nonprofit has since served 84 scholars across 21 HBCUs, with remarkable retention results—92% in 2024, compared to 0% in its pilot year.
The idea was born when Mercer met a young woman who shared how her social worker dropped her at college with no guidance or support. This heartbreaking encounter, coupled with the staggering stat that only 1% of kids in foster care ever graduate from college, propelled Mercer into action. What started as a single act of kindness has evolved into a full-fledged movement—one that’s catching national attention.
What sets Move-In Day Mafia apart is its deeply personalized approach. Each room is curated by professional designers from Nikki Klugh Design Group, and students get to select their own snacks, hygiene products, and supplies, down to their favorite toothpaste and cereal. “The tears don’t fall when they see the beautiful rooms,” Mercer shared. “They fall when they realize we paid attention to what makes them feel seen and loved.”
Her appearance on The Sherri Show not only sparked laughter—thanks to a hilarious on-air slip-up from Mercer—but also ignited a surge of new donations and volunteers. It’s not Shepherd’s first time supporting the cause; she’s also helped raise $55,000 by playing on Celebrity Jeopardy and Celebrity Family Feud, all in honor of Move-In Day Mafia.
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