We’re thrilled to introduce Shasta Smith, a remarkable force for good within our community and a dedicated supporter of United Way of Greater Nashville. Shasta brings a wealth of experience from her professional life as the Vice President of Player Services at the NFL Players Association, where she focuses on athlete lifestyle management and is also the owner of Shop FYAB, an online graphic t-shirt company.
Beyond her impressive career, Shasta’s commitment to giving back shines brightly through her involvement in Greater Nashville. She’s a valued member of the Patricia Hart Society, and this year serves on the Board, helping lead fundraising efforts and membership strategy.
She is also an ongoing Day of Action volunteer, always ready to lend her energy wherever it’s needed. Shasta is also a generous recurring monetary donor, embodying the spirit of philanthropy that drives our mission.
We’re excited to share insights from Shasta herself as she answers a few questions about her volunteer journey with United Way.
Question #1: How are you involved and what inspired you to get involved with United Way of Greater Nashville?
I’m currently the Vice President of the Patricia Hart Society. I was inspired to get involved because United Way and the mission it serves have directly impacted my life. Along my journey, there were moments where the support provided through United Way-funded programs made a real difference. So being able to now give back through leadership and service is truly full circle for me.
Question #2: What’s one word you’d use to describe giving back?
Purposeful
Question #3: Tell us about a moment that made your heart feel full.
A moment that made my heart feel full was a couple of years ago when my son volunteered with Stuff the Bus. What made it so special is that years earlier, I had used that exact program to get his school supplies
Question #4: What’s one thing you wish more people knew more about our cause?
One thing I wish more people knew about United Way’s work is just how many lives it quietly touches. A lot of families like mine once benefited from these programs without ever really being able to share their story. The impact is real, personal, and often happens behind the scenes. It’s not just about funding programs, it’s about restoring hope, creating stability, and changing generational outcomes.
Question #5: What is an interesting fact about yourself?
An interesting fact about me is that I started my first business eight years ago selling graphic t-shirts out of a Facebook group! What began as a creative side hustle turned into a full-blown boutique and now, I donate 100% of the profits to support community programs and families in need.
Kris Wiese, Director Communications and Margaret Macgurn, Intern
