Helen Jo Zitzmann

La Farge, Wis.

Marketing Fulfillment Manager
at CROPP Headquarters in La Farge

Why did you decide to come to work at CROPP? 
I lived 5 miles west of La Farge and had been commuting 45 miles each way to a job in La Crosse.  I had a fresh Marketing degree, having gone back to college after my three children were all in school.   I was excited to work close to home, in an agriculture-related field, and especially for a business that embodied the mission of keeping the family farmer on the farm.

How long have you been with CROPP? 
I started working for CROPP in May 1993.

Why do you like working at CROPP? 
Every day is different, though the mission remains true. CROPP has been such a blessing for the people that live in the Kickapoo Valley, offering employment opportunities in one of the poorest areas of Wisconsin.  I treasure being a part of the CROPP family. I often tell newer hires that CROPP is the one place where we work with supervisors and managers; however we work FOR the farmers that own the cooperative.

What has been the best experience or day you’ve had at CROPP thus far? 
I was selected to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Grand Opening of the Organic Valley Headquarters building in La Farge.  That was a proud day for me, since my family has been from this area for generations.  My great-grandparents settled in this driftless region and farmed, and raised their children, so it was a privilege to be able to salute their hard work and dedication while honoring the farmers of CROPP for continuing that legacy.

What’s your favorite perk/benefit?  
The best benefit by far was meeting my husband, Grant, when he started working at Organic Valley in 2001!  We were married on New Year's Eve 2005.

What’s your favorite Organic Valley or Organic Prairie product? 
Organic Valley Orange Juice is the BEST! 

Describe your typical workday at CROPP:   
My workday is full of variety, which I enjoy.  There are always emails to review and meetings to attend.  I usually find time to share a song and a funny joke or story—a day without fun is just no fun at all!  Projects and deadlines loom, and the challenges are ongoing—and that's what I appreciate the most. 

Describe your commute: 
We live in Viola, which is 7 miles south of La Farge.  The commute is beautiful year-round. The Kickapoo River bubbles along in the valley and the ridges stretch out in majesty whether bathed in sunshine or glistening with a fresh coat of snow. 

What other types of jobs have you held? 
I have been a waitress, a travel agent, a newspaper reporter, a dairy farmer, a sales consultant, and most importantly, a mom to three wonderful children.

What are your other interests or hobbies? 
I enjoy singing with our church praise team, gardening, reading, and playing guitar.