As Manager of Federal Programs at Second Harvest, Kayla Neal plays an essential role in helping implement programs that ensure clients have access to the food they need. Her passion for Second Harvest’s mission and dedication towards her work, helps the food bank continue to advance our mission of providing food to people facing hunger and working to advance hunger issues.
How long have you worked for Second Harvest, what is your role, and describe a typical day?
I began working at Second Harvest in July of 2012 (almost 10 years!) as the Open Shopping Attendant. I quickly transitioned to Inventory Analyst, where I remained until 2018 when I accepted the role of Federal Programs Coordinator. I have since been promoted to Manager of Federal Programs.
A typical day for me consists of coordinating with our CSFP delivery driver, our warehouse teams in Smyrna and Nashville, the State Department of Health, and our partner agencies to ensure our senior clients receive the food they need.
What do you enjoy most about working for a local hunger-relief organization?
What I enjoy most is knowing that at the end of every day, my role made a difference in someone else’s life.
What is one of your favorite memories of working at the food bank?
After almost 10 years, I have so many to choose from! One of my favorites is the Holiday Mobile Pantry we hosted in our parking lot in December 2020. As an office staff member, it’s rare I get to see the faces of the people I serve, but what an honor and a privilege it was!
When you are not working, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy walking in my neighborhood, cooking, growing and arranging flowers, and being with family. In my spare time, I’m usually hanging out in my backyard with my wife, our daughter, and our three dogs. I’m also an avid reader!
If you would like to join the Second Harvest team, check out our current career opportunities.