Lives Changed Through Your Heart of Hope

How can we inspire hope in the hearts of our community members and beyond? To me, hope is a gift that can change lives, particularly when given to those in need.

Several events have me feeling significantly emotional today – the devastation of the recent hurricanes, the tense election season, sharing in the grief of our former President & CEO, Duane Etienne, on the loss of his beloved spouse, Jewell. I do have reasons to feel deep emotions as I reflect, but I am also filled with joy as I think about CICOA’s 50th anniversary celebration earlier this month.

For 50 years, CICOA has been a beacon of hope for older adults, people with disabilities and their caregivers in Central Indiana. Our mission is to help them age with independence, dignity and quality of life. Through our programs and services, we strive to provide not only practical support but also hope and guidance to push through challenges.

Celebrating 50 Years of Impact

More Than Just Services

We are often focused on the tangible needs of our community – services, programs, rides, meals and staff. But the true heart of our work is the hope we provide. We are not just a convener of services; we are a source of comfort, a lifeline in times of need, and a catalyst for positive change.

Many people come to us in dark days, feeling hopeless, but we are able to give bountiful hope as we walk alongside them on their journey.

When a loved one is struggling, where do you turn? When you need support as a caregiver, who can you rely on? Our organization is here to offer the help you need, both practical and emotional.

Be a Bright Ray of Hope

As we enter the final months of 2024, your support is more important than ever. Seniors and people with disabilities are relying on us to help them. State and federal funds are not enough, and they can change quickly. Your steady support helps us continue our mission of providing hope and improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.

What could we do to provide hope every day for people like Pauline, Rosemary, Jan, Bonnie, Janillia and Ron? Every dollar makes a difference. Whether it’s $100, $50 or even $10, your gift can help us:

• Provide essential services: From meals to transportation and home modifications.
• Support our caregivers: Through respite and emotional support.
• Advocate for our community: Raise awareness and work for policy changes that benefit older adults and people with disabilities.

Will you be the one who fills their hearts with hope? Be part of a new movement of donors who are building a brighter future for everyone in our community. Your generosity will help us continue to be a beacon of hope for generations to come.

Thank you for caring, giving and impacting the lives of those who now have hope because of your gift!

Steve Gerber

Steve Gerber brings experience in pastoral ministry, nonprofit management and fundraising team leadership to his role as CICOA’s chief development officer. Steve is responsible for the agency’s overall fundraising strategy, leading annual campaigns, major gifts, planned giving, grants and special events.

He holds designations for Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy^® (CAP^®), and the executive certificate in religious fundraising. Steve earned a bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Temple University, a master’s degree from Grace Theological Seminary and a master’s in business administration from the University of Phoenix.