Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/37509
work to inspire Someone You Should Know: Anna Kamperschroer By Diana Henry I n the middle of a sea of cubicles, Anna Kamperschroer types away at her computer. After earning a degree in accounting and finance at the University of Minnesota, the Madison native found a job that is a perfect for her. A senior internal auditor at Madison’s CUNA Mutual Group, she contently spends her days analyzing internal company processes, looking for ways to create more efficiency. “Ever since high school when I took an accounting class, I was kind of sold on it,” she says. “It fits my personality.” At just 25 years old, Kamperschroer takes pride in another title as well, that of young professional. “[To me, that] is someone who is just starting out in their career,” says Kamperschroer. “They have a lot of opportunities at their feet and they’re looking to make connections, network and meet people.” The desire to make connections outside of work led Kamper- schroer to a unique group of area young professionals that allows her to meet another personal goal: giving back to her community. “Helping your community is very important,” says Kamperschroer. So once a month, she trades in her keyboard for a hammer, lead- ing dozens of other young professionals as board chair of the Dane County chapter of Habitat Young Professionals. An initiative within Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, HYP was formed to build the next generation of volunteers, donors and leaders while providing opportunities to network, socialize and give back to a larger cause. “I think the aspect that [HYP] has a social side along with the volunteering is a big plus for a lot of people,” says Kamperschroer. Young professionals from a number of different fields make up the current 43 members. Between social and fundraising events, HYP holds volunteer “build days” one Saturday a month through- out the year. Since 2009, HYP has logged more than 800 volunteer hours and worked on 18 houses. This fall, HYP is planning to co-sponsor the building of another home. Through fundraising efforts, the group is halfway to their $60,000 goal. It costs $90,000 to build one Habitat Home. “Not everyone is as fortunate as [us]. We are lucky enough to have jobs and be able to support ourselves. It’s just very fulfilling to see a family we can help through Habitat,” says Kamperschroer, who is quick to note that every little effort matters. Whether they are putting in eight hours on a Saturday to build a home or simply providing lunch for those doing the handy work, every piece makes a big difference in a family’s life—and the community as a whole. “I think the fact that all these young people are showing interest in the community and helping those in need will really benefit the Madison area in the future,” says Kamperschroer. ••• Diana Henry is news anchor for WKOW27. Join her July 7 at 10 p.m. for “Somone You Should Know” featuring Kamperschroer and Habitat Young Professionals. Visit www.habitatdane.org/abouthyp for more information. 32 BRAVA Magazine July 2011 Photos by Amber Arnold