Cameron Park resident Matt Huckabay always knew he wanted to go into the human services field, but it wasn’t until he took a job at the UC Davis Hospice Program that he made his dream a reality. 

Although he was a young man in his 20s at the time, Huckabay’s work in end-of-life care forced him to grow up fast. “It was a pivotal moment,” he shares. “I learned to prioritize—to focus on what’s really important in life.”

Huckabay went on to lead a successful career in retail, all while volunteering for numerous community groups and nonprofits. A little over six years ago, he closed his retail store—having decided that 17 years in the business was long enough—and dedicated his newfound time to community service. 

He’s now executive director at The Center for Violence-Free Relationships, which provides counseling and assistance to those who have experienced sexual assault or domestic violence, and promotes healthy relationships through in-school education programs. 

Huckabay is also a member and past president of the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and serves on the board of directors of the Guiding Hands Farm Program, an organization that gives kids hands-on experience in organic and sustainable farming. For Huckabay, it’s all about using his skills to better his community. “I think a community is only as healthy as those who have the least in it,” he explains. “The more we can do to raise the tide for everybody, the better our community becomes.”

 — Amber Foster 

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?       

A: Spend time identifying your natural talents and strengths, and build your life around them.

Q: What’s your biggest pet peeve?

A: Presenting opinion as fact.

Q: Biggest life inspirations? 

A: Individuals who live authentic, fearless and balanced lives. 

Q: What are you most proud of? 

A: Being married! 

Q: Best words of wisdom you’ve received?

A: My dad’s favorite quote from Winston Churchill: “Sometimes it’s not enough to do your best. Sometimes you have to do what is required.”

Q: What’s next?

A: A consulting practice focused on assisting individuals and organizations in reaching their fullest high-performing potential.