Today we’d like to introduce you to Shondra Gilstrap.
Hi Shondra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
PWRHAUS Elite Incorporated was built from a place of purpose, not just passion. As a mother and leader, I saw firsthand how many young athletes—especially in underserved communities—lack access to structured programs that build both skill and confidence. Traditional All-Star cheer can be expensive and exclusive, and I knew there had to be a better way.
I started PWRHAUS with the vision of creating a high-level youth development program that removes financial barriers while still delivering discipline, structure, and elite training. What began as an idea quickly turned into a growing organization rooted in community, accountability, and opportunity.
The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to build from the ground up—navigating funding challenges, leadership growth, and the realities of running an organization while balancing motherhood and personal responsibilities. But every obstacle strengthened my commitment and clarified the mission.
Today, PWRHAUS Elite is more than a cheer program—it’s a movement. We are developing confident, disciplined, and resilient young athletes while showing them what’s possible beyond their current environment. As we continue to grow, my focus remains on expanding access, strengthening our impact, and building a lasting foundation that changes lives for generations to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Building PWRHAUS Elite Incorporated from the ground up came with real challenges—especially creating a program that prioritizes access while still maintaining high standards. One of the biggest obstacles has been funding. Providing opportunities for athletes who may not otherwise afford All-Star cheer required me to be creative, resourceful, and intentional about how we operate and grow.
Another challenge has been building structure and credibility at the same time. As a growing organization, I’ve had to develop systems, lead a team, and earn trust from families while still actively building the program day by day. There’s no blueprint for that—you learn, adjust, and keep moving forward.
On a personal level, balancing leadership, motherhood, and the demands of running an organization has required discipline and sacrifice. There were moments where I had to make difficult decisions, step outside of my comfort zone, and lead even when things felt uncertain.
However, every challenge has strengthened both me and the organization. It’s forced me to become a stronger leader, think more strategically, and stay grounded in the mission. Those obstacles didn’t slow the vision down—they refined it and made the foundation stronger.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
PWRHAUS Elite Incorporated is more than a cheer program—it’s a purpose-driven movement built to change access, shift mindsets, and develop confident, disciplined young athletes from the inside out.
I created PWRHAUS after recognizing a gap—too many talented kids were being left out of All-Star cheer due to cost and lack of access. Instead of accepting that, I built a program that delivers structure, high standards, and competitive training while intentionally creating opportunities for those who are often overlooked.
What sets us apart is that we don’t just train athletes—we develop them. Our athletes are held to a higher level of accountability, discipline, and consistency, while also being supported, seen, and poured into. We focus just as much on confidence, character, and leadership as we do on performance.
We are known for our culture. It’s structured, it’s intentional, and it’s rooted in growth. Families trust us because we don’t just show up for the athletes—we invest in them. Every practice, every interaction, and every opportunity is designed to push them beyond what they thought they were capable of.
What I’m most proud of is what PWRHAUS represents in the community. It’s not just about cheer—it’s about giving kids a real shot, building their confidence, and showing them that their circumstances don’t define their future.
As we continue to grow, the vision is bigger than the program. We’re building a foundation that creates impact, expands opportunities, and leaves a lasting mark on every athlete and family that comes through PWRHAUS.
What’s next?
The future of PWRHAUS Elite Incorporated is centered around growth, expansion, and long-term impact. My goal is to continue building a program that not only competes at a high level but also becomes a recognized leader in youth development and access within the All-Star cheer industry.
We are actively working toward expanding our reach—both in the number of athletes we serve and the resources we provide. That includes strengthening our program structure, building partnerships, increasing sponsorship opportunities, and ultimately securing a dedicated facility that allows us to operate at an even higher level.
Beyond growth in size, the focus is on deepening our impact. I want PWRHAUS to be known as a program that truly develops athletes beyond the sport—instilling confidence, discipline, and leadership that carries into their everyday lives.
Long-term, I see PWRHAUS expanding into multiple programs and communities, creating more opportunities for athletes who may not have had access otherwise. This is about building something sustainable, scalable, and rooted in purpose—not just for today, but for years to come.
Pricing:
- Registration Fee: $175 (one-time annual fee)
- Monthly Tuition: $120 (structured training & program participation)
- Fundraising Opportunities: Available to help offset costs for families
- Payment Plans: Flexible options offered to support accessibility
- Additional Costs: Competition fees, uniforms, and travel vary by team/season
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pwrhauselite.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pwrhauseliteinc?igsh=MXNxOGpzY205ZDBhbw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FdoELSZ1d/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Patty Mills of Mills Visuals
