MasterChef’s Secret Ingredient: EyesOpenIowa’s Role in Grant Gillon’s Winning Recipe

By: Emily Gillon

A little over a year ago, my world turned upside down as I found myself on a plane back to Iowa with my husband, Grant, and our energetic four-year-old son, Grady. Just twelve hours earlier, Grant had clinched victory on the thrilling season 13 of MasterChef. The whirlwind had begun nearly two months prior, when Grant embarked on his journey to California in pursuit of his culinary dreams. From the application process filled with home videos in our kitchen through needing to take PTO for non-descript trips to California that were locked down by NDAs, EyesOpenIowa supported us every step of the way.

In the midst of the chaos and excitement, there's one unsung hero that deserves recognition: my employer, EyesOpenIowa. Now, before you dismiss this as mere flattery, let me share with you the extraordinary support and progressive ethos that defines EyesOpenIowa.

For nearly a decade, EOI has been more than just a workplace for me—it's been a sanctuary of support and understanding. I’ve worked in several capacities during my tenure: training coordinator, training consultant, and most recently director of training. I’ve had the joy of watching EOI grow and change while remaining a steadfast leader in the sexual health field.

Despite the whirlwind of emotions and responsibilities, EyesOpenIowa never wavered in their support. Whether it was adjusting my work hours to accommodate my graduate internship and class commitments, or welcoming my four-year-old into the office on days when life and daycare didn’t quite line up, they ensured that I never felt alone on my end of this weird journey. The experience with MasterChef not only showcased Grant's culinary talents but also illuminated the true essence of EyesOpenIowa: a beacon of support and empowerment.

Long before remote work became the norm, EyesOpenIowa championed flexibility, allowing us to juggle our professional and personal lives with grace. Remember when work from home flexibility was rare if unheard of? Not at EOI. They had work from home flexibility long before the pandemic required it. EyesOpenIowa is paving the way with a 32-hour work week, giving us more time to savor life outside the office. And their "babies at work" program? It's a testament to their commitment to nurturing not just careers, but families too.

But it was during the rollercoaster ride of Grant's MasterChef journey that EyesOpenIowa truly shone. In the early morning hours of January 4th, 2023, we were saying weepy goodbyes by the escalators at the Des Moines airport. We split a box of Casey’s donuts to curb some of the emotions. As we wiped tears and chocolate icing off our faces, my heart heavy with conflicting emotions, grappling with both the joy of Grant's opportunity and the pain of saying an indefinite goodbye, I found solace in the unwavering support of my colleagues. While the world seemed to spin out of control, EyesOpenIowa provided a steady anchor, allowing me to navigate the wild season with strength and resilience.

Now, as Grant prepares to give back to the organization that stood by us during an unpredictable season, we're filled with gratitude and excitement. His auction of a multi-course dinner for six, complete with an exclusive meet and greet, is our small way of saying thank you to EyesOpenIowa for being more than just an employer—they're family.

As we eagerly await the upcoming virtual silent auction fundraiser from May 15 to May 30, we are constantly reminded of the transformative power of support and solidarity. Just as EyesOpenIowa provided unwavering support to our family during our unique journey, we are deeply honored to pay it forward by championing their vital mission: empowering educators and equipping young people with the comprehensive sex education they deserve.

Now, more than ever, we recognize the urgent need for inclusive and empowering sex education. In a world where misinformation and stigma still loom large, EyesOpenIowa stands as a leader in the sex education field, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate relationships, sexuality, and their own bodies with confidence and autonomy.

By supporting EyesOpenIowa, you're not just investing in a cause—you're investing in the future. You're empowering parents and educators to foster meaningful education and conversation. You're equipping young people with the tools they need to make informed decisions and lead fulfilling, healthy lives. Because when we lift each other up and invest in education, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.

Join us in supporting EyesOpenIowa's mission. Together, let's empower and educate the next generation, because when we come together, incredible things happen. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a world of difference.