Samantha Flores

Director of Program & Partner Services

• Email: sflores@secondharvestfoodbank.org
• Phone Number: (440) 444‐0695
• Alternate Phone Number: (440) 960-2265 Ext. 305

Getting food to those who need it requires a balance of collaboration, efficiency, and compassionate leadership. As Director of Programs & Partner Services, Sam oversees the organization’s relationships with its network of over 130 partner charities and ensures the successful implementation of vital programs like mobile distributions, school pantries and the senior food box program.

Sam is responsible for maintaining compliance with Feeding America and state guidelines, coordinating training and education opportunities for partners, and fostering a culture of trust and dignity throughout the food bank’s operations.

Her journey with Second Harvest is grounded in a passion for service and community care. She began her career addressing food insecurity as an AmeriCorps VISTA and later as a Community Outreach Worker for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. After five years teaching English in South Korea, where she gained valuable insights into intercultural communication and organizational development, she returned to Ohio to continue her commitment to making a meaningful impact in her community.

Her leadership approach is driven by a belief that true change happens when people feel seen, valued, and connected. Drawing on principles of agile project management, Sam emphasizes adaptability, collaboration, and innovative problem-solving to strengthen the food bank’s programs and partnerships. Her efforts have earned her recognition as a Forty Under 40 honoree by Crain’s Cleveland Business and one of Crain’s Notable Latino Leaders.

Sam lives in Lorain with her partner and is an active member of her local community. Outside of work, she enjoys playing pickleball and exploring Korean cuisine, a love rooted in her years abroad.

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/samsflores/