June 18, 2025 | jerseysbest.com online article | View our Press Release

For more than three decades, Community Options Inc. has been improving the day-to- day lives of those with disabilities. The national agency, headquartered in Princeton, offers a wide range of residential services as well as employment and day services. All are tailored to each person’s goals. The nonprofit was named to the Top Workplaces in New Jersey 2025 list, ranking No. 16 in the large-sized company category.

Chief Human Resources Officer Courtney Eidel said this honor is a powerful endorsement of the organization’s culture and its employee satisfaction.

“Because the award is based on workers’ reviews, it provides external validation of the company’s commitment to its employees’ well-being,” said Eidel, who added that the work itself is inherently rewarding. “That’s what makes it a great place to work. It is the sense of meaning behind everything that we do. Employees are valued. They’re supported. They’re given opportunities to grow professionally but also while making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. The collaboration, the mission-driven environment — it all creates a strong sense of community where every role matters and every success is shared.”

In the statewide workplace survey, Community Options added a question asking employees to describe an impactful moment they experienced while on the job.

“I’ve received thousands of responses from staff where they shared their personal examples of how they have changed people’s lives,” Eidel said. “It’s overwhelming reading them. It’s a powerful reminder for them to reflect on the contributions that they make.”

In the anonymous survey responses, employees stated why they love their jobs:

“It’s in sync with my values. I love helping people in need. Secondly, the management treats the staff with respect and I have the feeling ‘I belong.’ ”

Another employee added, “Our leadership lives the mission and they work just as hard as the staff. They are the living example of what you want in your administration and senior staff. The individuals we support are wonderful people and demonstrably happy, more confident and appreciative. I truly feel like I am a part of something larger.”

Opportunities to Thrive

Community Options Inc. has been growing steadily since opening in 1989.

“We have over 7,000 staff nationally,” said Eidel, who added that the company is always searching for talented individuals who are seeking meaningful work.

Once people join the company, they can look forward to receiving ongoing training and opportunities to grow within the organization.

“We invest in staff development, whether it’s through enhancing our training program with virtual reality training, or leadership academy, which is our approach to succession planning. Employees can apply to be part of a program, which provides an individual training plan, enhanced tuition reimbursement and a mentor. We also offer leadership training for our executives through Duke University, through their partnership with Corporate Education Group,” said Eidel, who has been with Community Options for 15 years. “Our continuous growth and large geographic footprint create ample opportunities for our staff

The company’s commitment to developing its future leaders and ensuring they’re well-prepared sets it apart, Eidel said.

As a 24/7 operation, the company also offers flexible schedules as well as a paid birthday holiday and access to a robust employee assistance program. Its annual Cupid’s Chase 5K invites runners, walkers and rollers (including baby strollers and wheelchairs) to help raise funds and make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. For more information or to find a race near you, visit www.cupidschase.org.

Consistency Meets Flexibility

Community Options has centralized human resources, finance and information technology departments that serve as a resource throughout its 12 states.

“While we maintain consistency in our core policies and procedures, we recognize the importance of adapting to local cultures,” Eidel said. “Each state has the flexibility to adjust certain practices that are aligned with the unique needs and dynamics of their region. This approach allows us to maintain a strong, unified organization while also empowering local teams to create an environment that best supports their employees and the individuals we support.”

Fostering Continued Pride in the Workplace

Receiving the Top Workplaces distinction will instill additional pride in the current workforce, knowing that they’re part of being a top employer, Eidel said.

“Our employees play a key role in recruitment by referring candidates and they receive a monetary award for each successful referral,” she said. “I think this award will enhance their pride in our organization and further encourage them to share our job openings with their network.”

For more information or to view job openings, visit www.comop.org.