Jenny Worzella was nominated because she had a desire to help others and her vision of a Thanksgiving meal in every home has grown to reach hundreds. She gives back more than she takes in hopes of making the world better place.

She has lived in Portage County for 19 years.

Thanksgiving baskets started 10 years ago as an idea that Jenny brought to a group of people at St. Paul Lutheran Church. She felt there was a large group of people in the community that fell between the cracks. They make too much money to get assistance, but don’t make enough money to be able to afford things like a full Thanksgiving meal. There are local charities where people can go in and have a Thanksgiving meal, which is amazing Worzella explains, but she thinks for families, being able to do that in their own home is important. Her goal was to have these families be in an environment where they’re most comfortable. She hopes the Thanksgiving baskets help the families to focus on the Blessings God gave them. 

Jenny’s Favorites:

• Song- Humble and kind by Tim Mcgraw
• Food- Baked goods
• Book- Facebook
• Quote- “To always give fully to anybody who needs it, without ever expecting anything in return”

When are you most happy?

Jenny is happiest when she is around her family or working in the garden. She really enjoys peace & quiet.

How does living in Portage County influence you?

Portage County is full of family blood relatives and not, it’s a great place to raise children. My children saw a lot of examples of people helping people. It's just a small town where people are trusting. We live in a caring community.

Who’s your hero?

Her dad. He had struggled with illnesses as a child and as he got older. Nothing stopped him. She learned for him to concur obstacles, instead for letting them stop you in your tracks.

What can people from the community learn form you?

Don’t judge a book by its cover. You don’t know their story, whether someone is coming to pick up a Thanksgiving basket or anywhere. Always be nice and respectful.

Do you prefer to donate time or money to those in need? Why?

Time because then you’re in the trenches, you get to meet people. The money is also good, because I can’t do what I do without the money, but I enjoy the human contact, the hugs...the trenches.

She started a bakery... Frosted Freckles Bakery at Adventure 212. She makes baked goods for weddings and graduations. She also specializes in making cupcakes and cookie bouquets. Baking relaxes her.

Jenny also works as a financial analyst at Lineage Logistics.

She would like to thank all her volunteers over the past 10 years... the Thanksgiving basket event would not be anything without them. In 2018 the event volunteers, donors and Jenny were able to help 400 families. It’s the Saturday before Thanksgiving Day at St. Paul Lutheran Church. If you would like to request a Thanksgiving basket please call St. Paul Lutheran Church at the beginning of November - 715.344.5664