Our Mission:
Empower
Columbia Opportunities, Inc. (COI) helps solve poverty-related problems in our community. Our goal is to provide individuals and families with access to whatever resources they need to become self-reliant.
Our Approach
What We Do
COI offers education, advocacy and community involvement to individuals and families with low incomes.
COI offers resources to help people meet their basic needs.
COI helps people move toward economic security.
Click here to learn more about our programs.
COI offers a safe environment that embraces equity, inclusion and diversity.
COI treats all people with respect and recognizes their dignity.
COI lends a voice to those in need.
17,500
Meals for Pre-Schoolers
In 2025, Columbia Opportunities served nutritious meals to preschool-aged children to help them grow and learn.
583
People received emergency food boxes
517
Families Reduced their home energy Bill
This is how we make a difference! Through our Weatherization and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), we provided we helped people reduce their home energy burden.
157
People increased their annual income
Through state and federal tax credits.
Berne Bendel, Board Member
Columbia Opportunities changed my life. As a young, new teacher, I worked for COI Head Start and it was through my employment there that I found my passion and purpose in social justice work. It is because of my work at COI that I sought to further my education with a focus on social justice, its intersections with teaching and education, and human services.
Click here to read Berne’s full quote and other testimonials.
Get Involved
Volunteers make a difference! Are you an elder? We can use your help. Young adult? We need you! Busy professional looking to make a difference? Contact us! Check below for ways to volunteer and help Columbia Opportunities to make a difference.
Volunteer Opportunities
Contact us to find out how you can help individuals, families and children in Columbia County.
Employment
Looking for meaningful work? Want to help people and change lives? Check our current open positions.
Make a Donation
All donations make a difference. Help families and individuals to thrive in Columbia County. Here’s a list of food pantry items we always need.