The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce assists in the growth and development of the businesses in our community. Karen Gibler is the President of the Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce.
How did you get started in the business? – I was recruited by the Chamber.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – It is hard to pick one specific achievement as I feel that I’ve had many smaller ones that have been more impactful than one large one.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Maintaining a work – family balance.
Tell us a little about your family. – I’m happily married and the mother of five children. We are all very close and fill our days with love, activities and lots of humor.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – I have two. The first is when I moved out of my parents’ house. The second is when I became a parent.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Anything outdoors!
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I’ve been a foster parent who took in high risk children.
What are you the most proud of? – My family.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – I have been fortunate to receive lots of great advice. But, my favorite saying is from Mother Teresa: “I know God wouldn’t give me more than I can handle – I just wish he didn’t trust me so much.” This quote keeps life in perspective when I feel it is getting complicated or if I am thrown a curve ball.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Honorable.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Happy” by Pharrell Williams.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The power to heal.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Working with children.
Which talent would you most like to have? – It would be amazing to be able to sing well.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I would have a home for young adults that age out of the system and have no family or outside support.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – In my current position I am involved in many and passionate about all of them. We have a great community of generous people and all of the non-profits in our area serve a need.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – My favorite book will always be Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.
What is your favorite movie? – I have several and they are quite the variety. The Passion of the Christ, Mary Poppins, Tucker & Dale vs. Evil, Overboard…
What is your favorite TV show? – I seldom watch TV but when I do, it’s mostly national news.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – I really can’t answer that question; I love to eat out at all of them!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Jesus Christ.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at the Chamber office, (402) 339-3050, or via our website at www.sarpychamber.org.