Supporting People. Changing Lives.

Christian Opportunity Center Announces Retirement of Executive Director, John Eilers

Published August 30, 2023

John Eilers
COC Executive Director

Christian Opportunity Center (COC) announces the retirement of John Eilers, Executive Director, who has dedicated nearly two decades of his career to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities at COC. Effective August 31st, Eilers will be stepping down from his position, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional leadership and a deep impact on COC.

Eilers joined COC in 2004 as the Associate Director, bringing with him an impressive professional background and a passion for human services and ministry. In 2018, Eilers assumed the role of Executive Director and has demonstrated exceptional leadership during challenging times, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and workforce crises with resilience and compassion. His dedication ensured the well-being and safety of both the individuals supported and the staff at COC.

Reflecting on COC’s greatest accomplishments during his tenure, Eilers said, “Two achievements come to mind, first, the heroic work of all COC staff as we together weathered the Covid-19 Pandemic with minimal loss of life and serious illness for people supported and staff. The second noteworthy achievement was the conversion of all but one of our Intermediate Care Facilities to Home and Community Based Services group homes. The positive outcomes are more community integrated lives for people supported and better funding for COC.”

Beyond the organizational achievements, Eilers cherishes the countless moments of compassion, rapport, and personal growth witnessed between COC staff and the individuals they support. These heartwarming experiences exemplify the core values that define COC, making it a truly special place.

For Eilers, COC has been more than just a career; Eilers went on to say, “I have been blessed to be able to do work that is not only human services but also a ministry to people with disabilities. To be part of COC’s ministry to support wonderful people with disabilities to have a good life has been a privilege and a joy.”

The entire COC community, including staff, individuals supported, and stakeholders, join in expressing their deep appreciation for Eilers’ outstanding leadership, commitment, and invaluable contributions to COC’s growth and success. While he will be greatly missed, John Eilers leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide COC’s future endeavors.

Knights of Columbus’ Annual Campaign for Individuals with Disabilities Continues to Make a Difference, Inspires Community Support

Published August 17, 2023

[Pella, Iowa] – Christian Opportunity Center (COC) celebrates the Knights of Columbus’ (KoC) Campaign for Individuals with Disabilities, which takes place this month. As we reflect on the impact of their efforts, COC is a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when organizations and communities come together.

The Knights of Columbus’ annual Campaign for Individuals with Disabilities has touched the lives of countless individuals with disabilities nationwide. Through this initiative, the KoC has demonstrated its commitment to empowering and uplifting individuals with disabilities, and COC is immensely grateful for its support.

COC has received donations from multiple Knights of Columbus chapters in the communities we serve, including Pella, Oskaloosa, Norwalk, and Indianola. This collective effort underlines the broader commitment of the Knights to support individuals with disabilities and create positive change in communities across Iowa.

In 2022, the Pella KoC’s dedication and innovative approach were displayed as they hosted the Pella-Thon Variety Show alongside their renowned tootsie roll drive. Together, these efforts resulted in an impressive $60,000 raised for individuals with disabilities in the Pella area. Their support extended to numerous organizations in the Pella community. COC received a donation from the Pella KoC, which enabled COC to purchase a much-needed wheelchair-accessible vehicle, further enhancing the lives of those we serve.

As we celebrate this remarkable campaign, we extend our gratitude to the Knights of Columbus for their profound impact on the communities we serve. Their dedication to the well-being and empowerment of individuals with disabilities has paved the way for greater inclusivity and opportunities for growth. COC recognizes the significant role played by the KoC in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities can truly thrive.

We take this opportunity to encourage others to rally behind the Knights of Columbus’ Campaign for Individuals with Disabilities. By supporting this worthy cause, you not only enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities but also strengthen organizations like COC, allowing us to continue to work to enable individuals with disabilities to live, work, and worship in the communities of their choice.

Amy Zuck, Public Information Director, remarked, “The Knights of Columbus’ continued support has been one of the driving forces behind our ability to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Their support over the years has helped many of the individuals we support attend summer camps and special trips. They have provided so many opportunities for the people we support to experience new places and make countless memories, which would not have been possible without their support.”

Let us come together to celebrate the spirit of giving exemplified by the Knights of Columbus, and let their inspiring example encourage us all to support their efforts. Together, we can create a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, making our community a better and more inclusive place for everyone. For more information on the Pella Knights of Columbus and their upcoming Campaign for Individuals with Disabilities, please visit connect with Pella Knights of Columbus #12334 on Facebook.

Our mission is to Integrate Christian values in empowering individuals with disabilities to realize their full potential.