Council of Churches director retires

Photo provided by Council of Churches of the Ozarks Inc.

Mark Struckhoff

The Rev. Mark Struckhoff announced his retirement as executive director of Council of Churches of the Ozarks Inc.

Struckhoff became executive director in 2010 after briefly serving as the interim leader of the nonprofit following the retirement of David Hockensmith, according to Springfield Business Journal archives. Rick George, CCO’s chief operating officer, is serving as interim director amid an executive search conducted by the organization’s board, according to a news release. Struckhoff will consult with the board on the transition.

“With God’s guidance, I will be exploring new directions and destinations of service consistent with my calling,” Struckhoff said in the release.

At the 50-year-old Council of Churches, Struckhoff is credited with opening a women’s shelter; launching an early childhood program; expanding children’s and adult daycare services; and working with member churches to expand the nonprofit’s reach. Prior to becoming executive director of CCO, he worked as the organization’s director of advancement.

CCO ranked No. 11 on SBJ’s 2019 list of the area’s largest charitable nonprofits, with 59 employees. It also reported an operating budget of $6 million.

Known for its Crosslines food pantry, CCO also provides shelter and clothing to people in need, among other services, according to its website.