One Eighty names Chris Love as Executive Director

Chris Love named Executive Director of One Eighty

August 6, 2026 - One Eighty today announced the selection of Christopher Love as its new Executive Director, effective September 1, 2026.

Love brings a wealth of experience in recovery and pastoral leadership, along with a deep commitment to the mission of equipping people to find freedom from crisis, poverty, and addiction.

This appointment marks a new chapter for One Eighty, as the organization builds on a strong foundation of ministry and community impact. Following a comprehensive national search lead by an appointed search committee and the Board of Directors, Love was identified as the leader who is uniquely prepared to lead One Eighty.

“With the upcoming retirements of two members of our executive leadership staff, the Board of Directors felt this was an appropriate time to restructure to a single Executive Director model,” said Reed Taylor, Board Chair of One Eighty. “Christopher’s experience, leadership style, and dedication to coaching people through transformation allowed the Board to unanimously see Christopher as the clear choice to be One Eighty’s next leader. We are excited to welcome him to the One Eighty family.”

Love has served in the recovery ministry space the past 10 years, most recently with Oliver Gospel Mission, in Columbia, South Carolina, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations and programming of the organization’s 90-bed men’s shelter, recovery unit and workforce training program. Love blends his recovery experience with knowledge and skills gained from military service, church planting, two master’s degrees, and teaching college-level courses into a unique approach to leadership and staff development.

“I can't begin to express my great joy and excitement at having been chosen by the board of directors to serve as the next Executive Director of One Eighty,” said Love. “I truly believe the Lord has been preparing me for this very role for many years now, and I am eager to have the chance to put all the ways that God has gifted me to use in service to our staff, recoverees, donors, volunteers, ministry partners and the community at large.”

View a personal message from Chris here.

As One Eighty prepares for this upcoming leadership transition, the Board also celebrates and recognizes the contributions of Jenny Halupnik, Director of Engagement, and Carmen Fish, Director of Finance, both set to retire this year. Since 2022, One Eighty has been led by Halupnik, Fish, and Dakotah Smith, Director of Operations, who will continue serving in a key leadership role overseeing programs.

Their dedicated service was critical in strengthening the organization, building momentum, and positioning the ministry for continued growth. Under their leadership, One Eighty eliminated more than $500,000 in debt, increased housing capacity to serve 120 people between 14 properties, strengthened outcomes through enhanced case management, and grew the workforce readiness program that helps participants secure meaningful employment and long-term independence.

The transition comes at a pivotal time for the Quad Cities. Applications for One Eighty's residential recovery program have increased 40 percent over the past year as homelessness rises and funding for many social services becomes more uncertain. The organization's privately funded model allows it to provide comprehensive, long-term recovery services at no cost to participants, focusing on lasting transformation rather than short-term stabilization.

“One Eighty is entering this next chapter with confidence and hope,” said Taylor. “Under Love’s upcoming leadership, the organization is poised to expand its impact across residential programs, strengthen support for alumni and families, grow in organizational sustainability, and elevate One Eighty’s strong reputation as a trusted, Christ-centered recovery leader in the Quad Cities.”  

For more than 16 years, One Eighty has filled a unique role in the region by walking alongside men and women who are ready to rebuild their lives but lack the support systems to do so. Each year, One Eighty serves about 200 people ready to turn their life around by offering housing, basic needs, career training, mentorship, life-skills and spiritual formation. Individuals graduate from the program with 12 months of sobriety, gainful employment, financial independence, and a support system to live more stable, productive lives. Learn more at www.oneeighty.org