Profile of a board member

Name: Tony Karlowicz

Occupation/employer:Back East Brewing Company, CEO & Co-founder

Role at Foodshare: After a nearly a decade as a volunteer on the Finance Committee, as well as helping with other committees, Tony was elected to the Board of Directors, where he serves on the Executive Committee and Audit Committee.

How long have you been with Foodshare? Since 2001

How you first became involved with Foodshare: I organized a volunteer day at my former employer, sorting produce at the Regional Market with about 20 co-workers.

Why I support Foodshare:  I believe that NO one should go hungry.  Hunger is an avoidable problem, and one that absolutely everyone can relate to.

Most recent accomplishment: Launching Back East in 2012, a small Craft brewery located in Bloomfield.  Back East is committed to providing fresh, local beer to beer drinkers in Connecticut who appreciate full-flavored beer and a variety of styles.  We’ve had quite a busy 2012: building out our brewery in a 4,500 sf warehouse, hiring a few employees, throwing a launch party with over 1,300 visitors (about 1,000 more than expected), distributing our beer to close to 100 restaurants and over 100 package stores, and winning a gold and bronze medal in the 2012 Great International Beer Festival.

What has changed the most at Foodshare in your time with us?  The need for food assistance has increased substantially.

What has stayed the same?  Foodshare’s commitment to end hunger.  Foodshare has grown, a couple times now, but they remain committed to their goal.  I’m proud to be part of an organization that continues to be efficient, committed, and focused.

What are you most proud of?  I am proud of my family.  We have 2 young daughters that are the most important part of my life.  It’s amazing to watch them grow and develop into their young selves.  I hope they’re happy as they grow up and make a positive contribution to the world.

Share something about yourself that few people know:  I have a fear of public speaking.  Oddly enough, it is more of a public fear when I’m in front of people I know (and should be more comfortable with).  I seem
to have much less trouble when I’m giving a brewery tour with 40 people I’ve never met.

From where does your inspiration / motivation to volunteer come?  “To those whom much is given, much is expected.”  I’ve been fortunate to not have to worry about going hungry, and I feel committed to doing my part to help others who aren’t as fortunate.

What is your favorite drink? Why?  Beer (in moderation of course).  Why, because that’s how I’m trying to make a living.

If you won $20 million in the lottery, what would you do with the money?  I’d give most of it away.  I’d help family pay off bills, donate substantial amounts to lots of different charities, give big bonuses to my employees, and leave just enough left over to pay off my bills and then buy a 2013 Jeep Wrangler.