Expert Interview

 Tara Davis - SVP/CHIEF PROGRAMS OFFICER

1. What does a typical day look like? 

Lots of emails, meetings and guiding my team in decision-making that ensures our neighbors continue to be at the center of our mission.

2. What inclined you to begin at the Central PA Food Bank? 

Since high school I have served the community in one way or another. While in college, I decided I wanted to work for a non-profit. While I landed at several other non-profits before CPFB, it was 17 years ago when I accepted my first of several roles at CPFB.

3. What do you think is fulfilling about the work you do?  

Knowing that every day, I’ve made a difference in the thousands of communities within our service territory. I love to educate the public and business about the good work we do, and I enjoy collaborating with CPFB staff and other social service organizations that help change the lives of neighbors that need our support.

4. How has your perspective changed over the course of your work there? 

I have come to be more empathetic and understanding of people’s situations. My passion to continue helping others as well as educating the larger community about our needs grows every day. There are days it can be challenging and you can feel hopeless wondering if you are making a difference, but then you remember even one person, one family is making a difference and nourishing someone’s body and soul.

5. Are there any difficulties that stand out to you? 

Having enough resources to meet the needs of our community is the most concerning. Donations of food and funds are down drastically since the pandemic and we are serving more neighbors now. It’s a silent hunger crisis.