Sam Gardner
Director of resource development
Sam Gardner (he/him) is the Director of Resource Development at IMPACT405, LLC. His path to this role is one shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a deep-rooted commitment to ensuring that others have access to the resources they need to overcome life’s challenges. Growing up in Round Rock, Texas, Sam moved frequently and learned early on how to adapt quickly, build new relationships, and navigate a world of uncertainty. By the age of 7, Sam faced another life-altering experience—a car accident that would leave him managing chronic physical discomfort. These challenges, combined with periods of food and housing insecurity, have instilled in him a fierce survival instinct and a drive to make a difference.
Sam’s personal experiences with homelessness, poverty, and the feeling of being on the fringes of society have shaped his empathy and determination to uplift others. Having experienced firsthand the impact of food insecurity and instability, Sam is deeply passionate about ensuring that no one has to face such struggles alone. His journey of growth and self-sufficiency mirrors the work he now does to support marginalized communities through IMPACT405.
In his role as Director of Resource Development, Sam brings a wealth of diverse experiences to the table. He has worked in various industries, from routing coordination to fast food management, where he took pride in mentoring young employees and empowering them to pursue their goals. His ability to break down complex data and optimize processes has been a key asset in each of his roles.
Sam's career path, which has taken him from a part-time stocker to an independent operator, speaks to his adaptability and passion for learning. No matter the job, Sam has always focused on service—whether that meant managing a team, organizing data, or simply making sure people had a meal.
At IMPACT405, Sam plays a vital role in developing resources that benefit the most vulnerable. He has been instrumental in advancing the Oklahoma Resource Hub, a tool that simplifies access to essential services like housing, employment, and food support. His vision extends far beyond logistics—Sam is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate community. He believes in breaking down barriers and connecting people with the support they need to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Sam’s passion for service isn’t limited to his professional life. He actively contributes to community projects, from supporting local food pantries to working with Guthrie Apothecary Gardens to expand their outreach. He is also committed to advocating for the LGBTQ+ and disabled communities, offering his voice and support to create a more inclusive society.
Sam’s long-term vision is ambitious: he hopes to build multiple systems that serve the common good, growing his own service crew to become a reliable resource for the state of Oklahoma. At the heart of his work, Sam seeks to ensure that people know where their next meal is coming from and feel empowered by the knowledge that others care about their well-being. He is committed to building sustainable solutions that will continue to impact lives long after his work is done.
Like his work at IMPACT405, Sam’s mission is rooted in the belief that no one should be left behind. Through his dedication, he is helping to build a movement—one that ensures access to resources is a right, not a privilege, and that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.