TPF Ambassador: Christina Zerfas

The Patachou Foundation Ambassadors are dedicated leaders in Indianapolis who are making a direct impact Indianapolis children suffering from hunger and food insecurity by raising money to support one of the schools we serve.Christina Zerfas is a proud IU alum, avid dancer, and world traveler who delights in the world's endless possibilities. She has a passion for "scheming"- "my factious term for enacting projects for the betterment of the community- and love to transform dreams into reality."Why did you decide to become an Ambassador for The Patachou Foundation?Upon moving to Indianapolis, I was looking for ways to get involved with the community. Particularly, after a long (and continuing!) tenure with Habitat for Humanity, I was looking to learn how to create sustainable change in the community by focusing on immediate needs, a shorter investment than buying a house and something that can seem contradictory. I was recommended to the Ambassadors Program by a friend and fellow Ambassador, Jennifer Magley. The program impressed me with its faceted approach that focuses on more than just food. The community and education pieces make the TPF stand out as a sustainable way to ensure that children do not go to bed hungry in our city on our watch.How did you first hear about The Patachou Foundation?I first heard of TPF when Martha Hoover came to speak to one of my business classes at IU last year.What about The Patachou Foundations mission connects with you?I love the mentality of taking responsibility for the issues faced in our community. The idea that "no children will go to be hungry in our city on our watch" creates a can-do attitude and bold statement that says we as a community can take control of our problems. And we will.Do you have any stories to share about your time as an Ambassador so far?The most rewarding part of my work as an Ambassador so far has been witnessing the unification of several of my young professional friends so eager to give back to the community. I have been humbled by the energy and work they have already put into planning our Hunger Banquet for April and look forward to seeing the event come together.What is your favorite family tradition involving food?Every Christmas we have a big brunch with just my immediate family. My favorite dish is the homemade french toast that you have to make at least 12 hours in advance. This means that every year, my three siblings and I stay up late after all of the Christmas Eve festivities have concluded to make the bread. The topping has to be spread out on the bottom of the pan for the bread to soak in but it is incredibly thick and hard to spread so no one likes doing it. The bonding of having to make it work and getting very messy in the process is a favorite family tradition of mine.What was your favorite snack as a child?As a child and still to this day, three of my favorite foods are PB&Js, popcorn, and Kroger-brand cinnamon rolls!