After nearly 44 years, Christian Opportunity Center (COC) has closed the doors to the Sheltered Employment Program for the final time.

COC’s Sheltered Employment Program began in 1974 when the organization recognized a need for adult vocational services. On April 27th ,COC employees, persons supported, and families joined together to honor its success.

Executive Director Rod Braun tells KNIA/KRLS News the closing of the Sheltered Employment Program is part of state and federal regulations encouraging persons with disabilities to be fully integrated into community employment.

COC will open a Life Skills program in Knoxville this month. Life skills is a non-work-oriented day habilitation program that focuses on teaching independent living skills, social skills and communication skills in an integrated community setting. COC will also expand its residential services in Oskaloosa this summer with a new group home.