Christian Opportunity Center’s (COC) mission is to integrate Christian values in teaching skills for life. For more than 48 years, COC has been making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. The success of COC has been made possible by our dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSP).   Every day of the year COC Direct Support Professionals give their time, creativity, love and energy to help those with intellectual, physical and mental disabilities to live a life that is more meaningful and productive.

The week of September 10-16^th is Direct Support Professionals (DSP) week.  In the COC community, approximately 220 DSPs work diligently to make a positive impact in the lives of people they support.  COC will honor each of their DSPs in our service area with gifts of appreciation.  “DSPs have a very difficult and involved job. COC is truly blessed to have so many caring, hardworking and professional people on staff,” stated Bre Brooks, Director of Human Resources.

COC Direct Support Professionals provide residential and vocational supports. Vocational DSPs provide on-the-job training and support to help people with disabilities learn the necessary job duties to be successfully employed. Vocational DSPs also help people with disabilities find and maintain employment in a variety of businesses, such as grocery stores, retail, food service production companies and cleaning services, to name a few. Life skills program (Day Habilitation) DSPs continually conduct training in various life skills such as independent living skills, social skills, and communication skills.  They also ensure that participants practice these skills in the community in an inclusive setting.

COC residential service DSPs are encouraging independence every day. Residential services range from 24-hour supervision to weekly assistance, depending on each individual’s needs. DSPs are responsible for the health, safety, and well-being, as well as keeping individuals connected with their families. 

Each and every life a DSP touches helps our local community and workforce to thrive. Whether it is taking someone to work, helping to pay bills or run errands, each DSP’s small actions lead to a huge positive impact on our community.  Please join COC and other organizations nationwide in recognizing COC’s Direct Support Professionals for their dedication and service.  

COC is always looking for quality Direct Support Professionals to join our community. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a DSP visit our website for more information. Founded in 1969, COC provides residential and vocational support and services to nearly 300 people with disabilities in Mahaska, Marion, Polk and Warren counties. For more information on COC and its services visit https://christianopportunity.org/.