White House Author

Karen Vauk is representing The Idaho Foodbank, which has hired three AmeriCorps alumna since becoming an Employer of National Service. Karen, President and CEO since 2009, is focused on furthering the organization’s mission to feed, educate, and advocate for those who face hunger. The Idaho Foodbank, which was originally founded by AmeriCorps VISTA members, has distributed enough free food for more than 151 million meals since its creation in 1984. They also offer cooking and nutrition education and direct access to free healthcare services. Karen has volunteered her time on Boards and Commissions to support education, nonprofits, and healthy communities, currently holding Governor-appointed Board positions for both “Your Health Idaho” and the “Idaho Healthcare Coalition.” Karen has taken the opportunity to expand the AmeriCorps VISTA program at the Foodbank; 60 AmeriCorps VISTA members have served there in the last seven years. This past December when The Idaho Foodbank was presented with the opportunity to become a charter member of Employers of National Service, Karen was thrilled join the initiative.