JENNY KNUTTER
Adair,IA
Summary
Compassionate and creative professional with 10+ years of experience designing and leading engaging programs that enrich lives, foster community, and support holistic well-being. Skilled in activity planning, group facilitation, and person-centered care, with a proven track record of delivering recreational, educational, and spiritual programs in both church and nursing home settings. Adept at building meaningful relationships, adapting activities for diverse needs (including dementia care), and coordinating volunteers and events. Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for persons through inclusive, purposeful, and joyful engagement.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Activity & Worship Leader (Volunteer Position)
Stuart Community Care Center
Stuart , IA
01.2022 - Current
- Facilitate engaging group activities twice weekly, including music, games, and creative projects, promoting resident socialization and quality of life.
- Lead worship services and special programs tailored for older adults, enhancing spiritual and emotional well-being.
- Adapt activities for residents with diverse physical and cognitive abilities, including dementia-friendly approaches.
- Collaborate with staff to ensure programming aligns with resident needs and care goals.
Pastor
Stuart-Mt Vernon United Methodist Church
Stuart, IA
07.2021 - Current
- Plan, organize, and lead weekly programs and community events engaging 100+ participants across all age groups.
- Provide compassionate support and active listening to individuals and families, fostering holistic well-being.
- Design and deliver interactive sessions and educational programs, ensuring inclusivity for diverse needs and abilities.
- Coordinate schedules, recruit and train volunteers, and maintain compliance with organizational guidelines.
- Strengthened community engagement through intergenerational programming and partnerships with local organizations.
Lead Pastor
Adair and Casey United Methodist Churches
Adair and Casey, IA
06.2019 - 06.2021
- Facilitated weekly gatherings and programs that encouraged participation, social interaction, and personal growth.
- Offered one-on-one emotional support and counseling, improving members’ mental and emotional well-being.
- Designed creative activities and service opportunities to promote engagement and connection.
- Oversaw scheduling, operations, and event coordination, ensuring smooth program delivery.
- Built collaborative relationships with community organizations to expand programming opportunities.
Associate Pastor
Casey United Methodist Church
Casey, IA
09.2016 - 06.2019
- Coordinated small-group programs and educational activities that enhanced learning and built supportive communities.
- Mentored youth and adult leaders, fostering leadership skills and engagement in group programs.
- Provided individualized emotional and spiritual support through home visits and crisis care.
- Organized church operations, including event scheduling and volunteer coordination, to ensure successful programming.
Education
Course of Study Completion - Bible, Theology, Congregational Life, Pastoral Identity
St. Paul's School of Theology
Kansas City, KS09.2025
Skills
- Activity & Program Planning
- Resident Engagement & Person-Centered Care
- Group Facilitation & Public Speaking
- Event Scheduling & Coordination
- Emotional Support & Active Listening
- Community Partnerships
- Record Keeping & Compliance
Accomplishments
- Established solid presence in community, successfully growing church membership by at least 10% year over year.
- Increased giving in church 25% over past 2 years.
- Designed and implemented an adult study group that 20 people consistently attended weekly.
- In 2023, Stuart-Mt Vernon UMC won the One Matters Award for the state of Iowa because of new membership and baptism growth.
Hobbies and Interests
- Volunteering
- Avid Reader
- Drawing and Painting
- Cooking
- Time in nature
Affiliations
- Avid reader
- Nature enthusiast
- Bread baker
- Drawing and Painting
- Family
Timeline
Activity & Worship Leader (Volunteer Position)
Stuart Community Care Center
01.2022 - Current
Pastor
Stuart-Mt Vernon United Methodist Church
07.2021 - Current
Lead Pastor
Adair and Casey United Methodist Churches
06.2019 - 06.2021
Associate Pastor
Casey United Methodist Church
09.2016 - 06.2019
Course of Study Completion - Bible, Theology, Congregational Life, Pastoral Identity
St. Paul's School of Theology