She finds great joy in helping to feed her community. She finds a feasible framework for informative conversations about hunger. She finds flexibility is an important approach to both her life and her work. She finds wonderful ways to feed her body, mind, and spirit. She finds respect in helping others reach their full potential.
What is the nature of your job?
My title is Director of Communications at Second Harvest of the Big Bend. I help inform and engage stakeholders regarding issues on food insecurity. I get to help our food bank make a tangible difference for vulnerable and underserved citizens. I get to show people how they can generously help their neighbors. I get to know that, in my own small way, I help feed hungry families and children. All of us work as a team, inspiring each other, toward our mission to supply healthy and nutritious food.
What makes your town a great travel destination?
Tallahassee has so many wonderful events and attractions. Parks, greenways, restaurants, museums, festivals, concerts…the list goes on forever. People should enjoy places like Cascades Park, Goodwood Museum, Mission San Luis, and the fantastic local libraries. Of course, we have great sports events here, too. I had a blast attending FSU’s first national championship game.
Don’t you have some background in travel?
Yes, before working with nonprofits I traveled many places in destination marketing. I love Maine, California, Colorado, as well as the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains. Places high on my bucket list include Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, and the Greek Isles. I plan to return to Scotland to explore my Scottish heritage. Oh, and eating my way through Tuscany was a particularly fun adventure.
Which are you more passionate about: art, food, or music?
That’s a hard choice! I grow my own herbs. I love to cook and develop my own unique dishes. I’m not artistic but do appreciate all forms of art. Collecting art from my travels is a great way to remember an experience. I love live music. My first-ever arena concert was Bruce Springsteen on the “Born in the U.S.A.” tour. Recently I took my teenage son to his first concert, Imagine Dragons. What an amazing time that I know we’ll both remember forever!
What relaxing activities do you most enjoy?
Walking a trail by a “cathedral of trees” is great exercise and where I get my best ideas. Being alone in nature clears the mind and leaves me calm. I also very much enjoy reading. Spending time with my chosen family of smart and supportive friends is dear to me. So is my faithful companion, a miniature Australian Shepherd named Rudy Lu Wigglebottom.
What makes you an exuberant person?
Anticipation! Looking forward to a grand adventure or a sweet conversation with friends. I try to listen respectfully with an open heart and mind. To find common ground and understand others is so important.
What is your key message for the world?
Be intentional in your kindness toward others. You will never regret a kindness.
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Dang y’all, Shari Hubbard is a sparkling ray of sunshine in Tallahassee. She brings a deep sense of value and purpose to her role of helping feed the hungry with Second Harvest. She is smart, kind, and could have a meaningful conversation with anyone.
I truly urge YOU, dear reader, to leave your comments.
Blessed to know Shari for most of my life. And yes – she has an exhuberance for life that shines through to others. People find themselves encouraged to be their authentic selves by just spending a few moments in her company. She is a bright light for others.
Angela, as usual this was a pleasure to read. Shari, you keep doing the great work described here. You are both fascinating women!
What a wonderful article! Thank you, Shari, for all that you do for the families in Tallahassee! Alaska is high on my bucket list too! Maybe I’ll see you there!
Wonderful story about a wonderful person
Love this!