Operation Hope Of Fairfield Executive Director Carla Miklos Announces Retirement

FAIRFIELD, CT — Operation Hope of Fairfield Executive Director Carla Miklos will retire at the end of March, concluding 19 years leading the nonprofit that serves individuals and families facing homelessness, hunger and housing insecurity in Fairfield County.

Miklos joined Operation Hope in 2007 and oversaw a period of significant growth in programs and funding. During her tenure, the organization’s annual budget increased from just over $800,000 to nearly $4 million, and the number of people served annually grew from about 250 to roughly 1,750, according to the organization.

Under her leadership, Operation Hope expanded its housing programs through master leasing, the use of Section 8 vouchers and partnerships with developers to secure set-aside units in new residential buildings. The organization also opened its food pantry to any resident in need in Fairfield and Easton.

Ryan C. Sheppard, a certified public accountant and former treasurer of Operation Hope’s board, credited Miklos with strengthening the organization’s impact.

"As the former Treasurer of Operation Hope’s Board, I have personally worked with Carla Miklos for over 12 years," Sheppard said. "Her leadership and tireless work ethic has transformed the organization into what it is today. I watched firsthand as she delivered results for Operation Hope’s clients and the broader community. Her legacy of integrity and leadership will be missed."

Beyond Operation Hope, Miklos played a role in regional collaboration by helping unify three separate continuums of care into a single countywide entity. The consolidated group coordinates federal funding and promotes shared standards and evidence-based practices among service providers, according to the organization.

"These 19 years have been some of the most fulfilling of my professional life," Miklos said. "I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and the lives we have touched. While this decision was not easy, I believe the timing is right - both for me personally and for Operation Hope's continued vitality. I remain deeply committed to this organization and will continue to support Operation Hope as we conduct our capital campaign to secure a new home for the organization."

Miklos said she will continue to support the organization, including its capital campaign to secure a new facility.

The organization said Miklos has committed to a structured transition process over the coming months. She will work with the board and leadership team to identify strategic priorities, document institutional knowledge and key relationships, and assist with the search for her successor.

After retiring, Miklos plans to remain involved in efforts to develop a new home for Operation Hope while spending more time with family and friends.