At 70 years old, Barb Eifel is a role model for how compassion, commitment and steady leadership can make a powerful impact. As board president with Blessing House, a children’s crisis care center in Lorain County, her story is one of deep faith and admirable service.
Eifel first got involved after retiring from a 37-year career at American Greetings, where she served as a product manager for Target’s gift wrap and stationery lines. Her project management skills quickly became an asset to the nonprofit, especially during its capital campaign to build a new facility.
“I started by helping with administrative work for the campaign,” she recalls. “Then Sister Mary asked me to join the board. That was six years ago — and I’ve never looked back.”
Eifel also chairs the development committee and plays a hands-on role in fundraising, including co-chairing the annual Rock-a-Bye Ball, Blessing House’s largest event. But her contributions go far beyond meetings and strategy.
Twice a month, she cooks dinner for the children and caregivers at Blessing House. She also supports the organization monetarily and with in-kind donations.
Her leadership style is grounded in reliability and support. “I follow through,” she says. “I go to every committee meeting — even ones I’m not on — and I support my fellow board members however I can and lead by example.”
What drives Eifel is her deep faith and belief in the mission of Blessing House, one of only two children’s crisis centers in the state. “What really touches me is that Blessing House provides a safe place for kids — no judgment of the parents — just help,” she says. “If I can support this mission and help just one person, then I feel like I’ve made a difference. I don’t feel so helpless in a community, in a world that’s kind of going crazy right now.”
Jenni Smithberger, development & events coordinator at Blessing House, describes Barb as “incredibly dedicated,” showing up for Blessing House in so many ways. “Not only is she the board president, but she is a co-chair on our gala committee, lead envelope stuffer, part-time thank you writer and full-time cookie provider.”
Eifel shares three tips for getting involved in the community:
Start with What Speaks to You “Find something that truly interests you,” Barb says. “Ask the organization, ‘Can you use some help? What do you need?’”
Don’t Overcommit — Start Small Barb recommends beginning with one task or event. “See how it feels. Do you feel like you’re making a difference? Let that guide how much you get involved.”
Match Your Talents to the Mission Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy, she says. “Then match that with what the organization needs.” Whether it’s cooking, organizing or fundraising, there’s always a way to contribute.
6115 Olivet Ave, Elyria, 440-240-1851, blessinghouse.org
