4-08-2026 8:40pm

MVCAP Names Weatherization Director

Beth Callahan Editor

Story and photo courtesy of MVCAP

SPRINGBORO, OH -- Long-time Miami Valley Community Action Partnership employee Eddie Cooper accepted the role of Weatherization and Housing Services Director effective April 6.

Cooper, who moved into the role on an interim basis after the unexpected passing of Barry Strahorn in December, was chosen after a formal recruitment and interview process, said MVCAP’s President and CEO Erin Jeffries.

“Eddie has demonstrated strong, steady leadership across the department,” Jeffries said. “He has led with tremendous professionalism and clarity, supported our culture and remained focuses on outcomes that matter for the individuals and families we serve.”

Cooper has held progressively responsible roles over nearly two decades with MVCAP. He has been an energy auditor, senior quality control inspector, director of quality control and assistant housing services director. He holds certifications as a BPI Quality Control Inspector, BPI Energy Auditor and BPI Building Analyst. He has also served as Coordinator for the Southwestern Hub of the Ohio Weatherization Training Center (OWTC) since its opening in 2022.

“Eddie’s approach also honors the legacy of his mentor, Barry Strahorn, and the foundation of service and excellence that has long defined this work,” Jeffries said. “I have great confidence in Eddie’s leadership and in his ability to continue strengthening this department and its impact across our communities.”

Cooper will oversee the Home Weatherization Assistance Program which MVCAP operates in nine counties in Southwest Ohio. The agency weatherizes more than 600 homes every year. He will also oversee the Emergency Home Repair program operating in five counties under a variety of funding streams, and improving dozens of homes annually. The Electric Partnership Program, also under Cooper, replaces more than 1,000 inefficient appliances every year.

The Southwest Hub of the OWTC, operated in partnership with the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development, trains more than 200 students every year in weatherization work and lead-safe repair work.

“I’m proud to carry on the legacy of service Barry Strahorn modeled every day,” Cooper said. “It’s an honor to serve Miami Valley residents with the difference that weatherization makes.”

To receive help from the Home Weatherization Assistance Program, residents must be living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Under a partnership with Center Point, MVCAP can serve its customers with weatherization if they live at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level.

For more information and applications for MVCAP programs, please visit www.miamivalleycap.org.