No problem too big for Tredwell

Karen Tredwell knows solving world hunger is a daunting task. So the longtime Pewaukee resident is doing the next best thing: She's trying to solve this issue at the local level. That's why she got involved in the Food Pantry of Waukesha County in 1997 and why she is so passionate about this issue.

Tredwell first got this passion when she volunteered in Haiti many years ago and was impressed by the successes of its nongovernmental organizations.

When Tredwell returned to Wisconsin she became involved in nonprofits in Waukesha County. In 1991 she began working with Interfaith Caregiving Network, which is now named Interfaith Senior Programs, and served as its executive director.

Tredwell is now serving as the executive director at the Food Pantry of Waukesha County, 1301 Sentry Drive, Waukesha.

While the holidays can be busy for Tredwell, she took some time to offer some insight into what a day is like for her at the pantry, her worries on the issue of hunger as well as her interests away from the pantry and her goals for 2012.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I always wanted to be a teacher - I felt that was one of the most impactful jobs ever.

What does your position entail?

My position here is so varied, which is something that I love. Some days, I spend the majority of my time writing grant proposals or doing other aspects of fundraising.

I have an opportunity to work with and talk with volunteers each and every day and feel privileged to work with people who give such a precious gift of time and compassion. I also interact with donors on a regular basis and am continually heartened by the real desire shown by our community to ensure that no one goes hungry.

While I don't have an opportunity to work directly with clients on a daily basis, I do still occasionally work in that capacity. Hearing the clients' stories continues to inspire me; the grace and courage that comes through is a true testament to the human spirit.

Is this a busier time of the year for you at the pantry?

The Food Pantry is busy all of the time. However, because we provide extra food for holiday meals at both Thanksgiving and Christmas, we do tend to be a little busier. Food drives are more prevalent around the holidays, so that aspect of operations is busier as well.

Overall, why did you get involved in this line of work?

I love breaking down widespread, seemingly insurmountable "problems" into local issues that can be addressed with local solutions. Solve world hunger? Maybe not, but working with local schools, congregations, civic groups, businesses and individuals to put a face on food insecurity in our community and work hard to reduce hunger in our own community is a very effective way to make a difference right here.

So how much satisfaction do you get when you see a struggling family find relief?

I am continually humbled by the trust that is placed upon our agency, both by donors and by those seeking assistance. Some of the stories that we hear are heart-wrenching, but knowing that our families may not have to worry as much because they have access to free food is tremendously rewarding. Waukesha County is truly filled with generous people and I get to see that every day.

What's the best part about your job?

The realization that, in this world that is often seen as callous and jaded, that people truly do want to make a difference. Thanks to that positive attitude and generous outreach, we are able to provide food to more than 6,300 people per month.

Are people donating enough to food pantries? If not, does this worry you going forward?

I do worry about having enough food to provide to all eligible people seeking assistance. However, our experience at the Pantry has been that when we share our needs with the community, people will respond. As the bad economy continues, we certainly are concerned that people may not be able to donate as much as in previous years. I remain cautiously optimistic.

What's one thing people don't know about you?

Hmm - that's a tough one. I just got back from Peru and hiked that Salkantay Trail and went to Machu Picchu. Most people wouldn't know that about me.

What's a perfect day like for you?

Spending time with family and friends. Since I feel like I work with family and friends, most days are close to perfect.

If you won the lottery today, how would you spend the money?

I would make sure that my son Christopher and my granddaughter had enough money for college. A portion would go to the agencies that are dear to my heart, particularly the Food Pantry and other local agencies.

I would definitely have to set some aside for travel for my husband and family (oh, and me, too!) Maybe refinish my kitchen floor.

If you could have dinner with any three people, who would they be?

Writer and mythologist Joseph Campbell, women's rights advocate Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and scientist and botanist George Washington Carver.

Where do you see yourself in five, 10 years?

Another tough question - since I love my job, the most logical answer is "right here at the Food Pantry." However, I do recognize that I have a yearning to be involved in the hunger issue on an even bigger level.

Perhaps that will be through expansion of Pantry programs or on a national or international level. Time will tell.

Are you looking forward to anything specific this holiday season?

Kicking back with family and friends. I feel very fortunate to have a wonderful network of friends who are endlessly fascinating. One of the greatest gifts that I can hope for is to get to spend more time with them and my family.

What's at the top of your Christmas list?

I think that I already got what was at the top of my Christmas list and that would be the trip to Peru. It was truly the trip of a lifetime. I am grateful to my husband, family and staff for supporting my decision to go.

What do you do in your free time/hobbies?

I play flute, make jewelry and read lots of books. I love to cook and entertain.

What are your goals (personal or career) for 2012?

I want to try to make this a very healthy year, both physically and spiritually. I feel very fortunate to be living the life I live and want to acknowledge that by trying to be healthier.

As far as goals for my role at the Pantry - we have been in a new building for a little more than a year and are still finding ways to make the building better suit our needs.

We have accomplished much, but still have some tweaking to do. I also look forward to evaluating ways to get more food to more people - maybe through a farm/garden program.

Want to help?

The Food Pantry of Waukesha County is located at 1301 Sentry Drive, Waukesha

Donation drop off times: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday; 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday

Contact Information: (262) 542-5300; waukeshafoodpantry.org