Press release from the COC:

Christian Opportunity Center announced the hiring of Derek Kruempel as the Associate Director. Kruempel, originally from Ames, brings experience and dedication to his new role, reinforcing COC’s commitment to delivering excellent support and services to individuals with disabilities in Pella, Knoxville, Oskaloosa, Des Moines, and Indianola communities.

Kruempel most recently served as the Executive Director of a Wisconsin-based disability service center for 3 ½ years. During that time, he gained experience providing key disability services such as pre-vocational training, supported employment, day services, and integrative community activities.

Kruempel also has a deeper personal connection that prepared him for this role. He and his wife’s first child was diagnosed with a congenital brain malformation and placed on the Autism spectrum. This personal experience ignited his passion for making a difference in the lives of those facing similar experiences. His hands-on experience as a parent of a child receiving disability services and his role as a leader in the field uniquely position him to understand and address the diverse needs of COC’s community.

“My upbringing in a family deeply rooted in service to others, combined with raising a child with disabilities, has shaped my dedication to working with vulnerable populations,” added Kruempel. “This personal connection has greatly influenced my approach to this role, as I aspire to model service provision to our clients in a manner that aligns with the care and compassion I would want for my own son.”

Kruempel envisions a future for COC where the organization remains at the forefront of providing quality services, establishing itself as the provider of choice for families and funding sources in the region. He aims to foster community integration as a seamless and natural aspect of daily routines for the individuals COC supports.

“What motivated me to join Christian Opportunity Center in this leadership role was the desire to return to the Central-Iowa region to be closer to family and to continue serving individuals with disabilities,” said Kruempel. “I believe there is a strong alignment between my personal values and those of COC, and I am excited about the opportunity to grow as a leader while empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives.”

COC welcomes Derek Kruempel and his family and looks forward to his positive impact as the Associate Director, furthering the organization’s mission of empowering individuals with disabilities to realize their full potential.