a bigger, better keith's place new web site launches 15
TRANSCRIPT
January marked my one-year anniversary at Opportunity
Partners. What an honor it has been to captain this remarkable
organization over the last year. I’ve learned so much – and
I’m still learning – and, most of all, I have been inspired by the
talents of the people we serve, the commitment of our staff
and the generosity of our caring community.
As a former teacher and school administrator, here are
a few classroom lessons that hit home to me after my first
year leading one of Minnesota’s largest human service
organizations.
Make new friends
A key to our success at Opportunity Partners is building
partnerships. The more people who know our mission, the
more friends we will make, and the more doors we can open
for people we serve. Tell your friends about us, take a tour,
invite us to speak at your business or club. We want to get to
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
disabilities reach greater independence.
Use your imagination
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
big and never give up on people with disabilities and what
they can achieve. P.S. We’re hiring! Check out our openings at
opportunities.org.
Work hard
We operate high quality programs that are efficient,
measurable and exceed the expectations of our customers.
I’m happy to share we recently earned another three-year
accreditation from CARF (see story page 2). This measure of
excellence only challenges us to keep doing better.
Share
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
Say thank you
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERSWinter 2015
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
opportunities.org
Published in the interest of families, friends and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative formats by request.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Editor:Julie Peters
Contributor:Emily Kosta
Designer:Alden Murray
Address or name changes.Do we have your name and address incorrect? Would you
prefer to be removed from this mailing list? Kindly contact us at [email protected] or call 952-912-7442. Thank you!
Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage
PAIDTwin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
New Web site launches
Saturday, May 30, 2015
opportunities.org/gala
You’re Invited
Our new Web site launched in early December,
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
Check out the new site, and let us know how
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
adapting as needed to ensure the site continues
to meet the needs of site visitors.
Thank you to Risdall Marketing Group for
designing a site we can be proud of, and David
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Message from the CEOArmando CamachoReflections on my first year
OpportunityPartnersABILITY REDEFINED Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org
Make new friends
Use your imagination
Work hard
Share
Say thank you
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
bags and moved into a much larger and more accessible place
to call home – a brand new “Keith’s Place.” The 4,000 square
foot Richfield home has a large, open floor plan, an elevator,
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
former home which was just a few miles away.
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
nice,” said Dave.
“I have my own
bathroom and my own
shower!” said Alex.
The guys are already thinking toward spring, planning what
they will do with their outdoor space.
“We are going to put a garden outside,” said Dave.
There was no question about keeping the name Keith’s
Place; the four men – not the structure – were what was most
important to Keith.
“Keith would have liked this house,” said Dave.
Brian, Alex and Dave(Brad, not pictured)
Welcome new board members!Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
Changing disability landscape
Benjamin Knoll
Dean Hildebrandt
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
everyone’s day!
Can you tell us about Herbie?Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie visit?
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
Education Assistance Dog).
We also go to the University
of Minnesota to visit students
before their tests.
How do people react to Herbie?
Reactions
can vary
from raucous
to subdued. At
Golden Opportunity
some people pet him, hug
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
Do you have any favorite memories while visiting Golden Opportunity?
One time, when Herbie and I visited Golden Opportunity,
the people served were singing karaoke. When we walked
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
Doggie in the Window?”
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?We walk out with smiles on our faces, knowing that we
made someone’s day a little better.
Remembering two original members of Opportunity Partners
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participantsFor Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
about is second nature.
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
Partners for Give to the Max Day last November.
“I decided to donate and keep OP going,” Christopher noted.
Supporting community causes resonates with Christopher.
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
business and donates money from card sales to the University
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
Christopher explains why he gives to charity: “It makes me
feel happy and proud, and I like making people happy.”
His mom Jeanette couldn’t be more proud of her son’s
philanthropy. “We’ve tried to help him understand that it’s
really important to think about other people and it spreads
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
involved.”
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
community.
Blazing a trail of generosity
Mark of quality programs
Opportunity Partners is at the
table with fellow disability providers,
advocates, trade associations, county
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
changes affecting disability services.
Join the conversation by following these
issues on our Web site:
opportunities.org/advocate.
There are many opportunities to
gain information about our policy
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Opportunity Partners’ 2015 Public Policy Priorities include:
ü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
ü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
ü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
ü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
ü Invest in innovative
community collaborations
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Advocacy and Leadership).
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
Join our Public Policy efforts – your voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy Associate, 952-930-7696 or
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a visit at Golden Opportunity.
Learn more about Christopher and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
$35 or families or group homes of 5 or more. Tickets
available at the door.
Dinner rolls donated by Great Harvest in Minnetonka. Matching funds will be provided by the Carver-Hennepin Chapter of Thrivent Financial.
2015 Board Officers:BOARD CHAIR – Cynthia Lesher, Retired, Xcel Energy
VICE CHAIR – Edson Spencer, Jr., Affinity Capital Management
TREASURER – Gregory Keane, Bush Foundation
SECRETARY – Nancy Wagner, General Mills
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Opportunity Partners lost two friends late last year. Denis Dufresne, 77, and Russell Hedenberg, 86, who both
joined Opportunity Partners when it started in 1953 as Opportunity Workshop, passed away within a few weeks of
one another.
Denis, who died November 23, retired from Opportunity Partners in July. Denis will be
remembered for his kind spirit and love of coffee.
Russell, who died December 15, retired from Opportunity Partners
in September. He was always smiling, and loved animals, singing and
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
anniversary celebration.
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our organization when it started in 1953.
January marked my one-year anniversary at Opportunity
Partners. What an honor it has been to captain this remarkable
organization over the last year. I’ve learned so much – and
I’m still learning – and, most of all, I have been inspired by the
talents of the people we serve, the commitment of our staff
and the generosity of our caring community.
As a former teacher and school administrator, here are
a few classroom lessons that hit home to me after my first
year leading one of Minnesota’s largest human service
organizations.
Make new friends
A key to our success at Opportunity Partners is building
partnerships. The more people who know our mission, the
more friends we will make, and the more doors we can open
for people we serve. Tell your friends about us, take a tour,
invite us to speak at your business or club. We want to get to
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
disabilities reach greater independence.
Use your imagination
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
big and never give up on people with disabilities and what
they can achieve. P.S. We’re hiring! Check out our openings at
opportunities.org.
Work hard
We operate high quality programs that are efficient,
measurable and exceed the expectations of our customers.
I’m happy to share we recently earned another three-year
accreditation from CARF (see story page 2). This measure of
excellence only challenges us to keep doing better.
Share
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
Say thank you
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERSWinter 2015
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
opportunities.org
Published in the interest of families, friends and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative formats by request.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Editor:Julie Peters
Contributor:Emily Kosta
Designer:Alden Murray
Address or name changes.Do we have your name and address incorrect? Would you
prefer to be removed from this mailing list? Kindly contact us at [email protected] or call 952-912-7442. Thank you!
Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage
PAIDTwin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
New Web site launches
Saturday, May 30, 2015
opportunities.org/gala
You’re Invited
Our new Web site launched in early December,
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
Check out the new site, and let us know how
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
adapting as needed to ensure the site continues
to meet the needs of site visitors.
Thank you to Risdall Marketing Group for
designing a site we can be proud of, and David
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Message from the CEOArmando CamachoReflections on my first year
OpportunityPartnersABILITY REDEFINED Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org
Make new friends
Use your imagination
Work hard
Share
Say thank you
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
bags and moved into a much larger and more accessible place
to call home – a brand new “Keith’s Place.” The 4,000 square
foot Richfield home has a large, open floor plan, an elevator,
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
former home which was just a few miles away.
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
nice,” said Dave.
“I have my own
bathroom and my own
shower!” said Alex.
The guys are already thinking toward spring, planning what
they will do with their outdoor space.
“We are going to put a garden outside,” said Dave.
There was no question about keeping the name Keith’s
Place; the four men – not the structure – were what was most
important to Keith.
“Keith would have liked this house,” said Dave.
Brian, Alex and Dave(Brad, not pictured)
Welcome new board members!Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
Changing disability landscape
Benjamin Knoll
Dean Hildebrandt
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
everyone’s day!
Can you tell us about Herbie?Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie visit?
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
Education Assistance Dog).
We also go to the University
of Minnesota to visit students
before their tests.
How do people react to Herbie?
Reactions
can vary
from raucous
to subdued. At
Golden Opportunity
some people pet him, hug
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
Do you have any favorite memories while visiting Golden Opportunity?
One time, when Herbie and I visited Golden Opportunity,
the people served were singing karaoke. When we walked
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
Doggie in the Window?”
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?We walk out with smiles on our faces, knowing that we
made someone’s day a little better.
Remembering two original members of Opportunity Partners
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participantsFor Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
about is second nature.
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
Partners for Give to the Max Day last November.
“I decided to donate and keep OP going,” Christopher noted.
Supporting community causes resonates with Christopher.
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
business and donates money from card sales to the University
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
Christopher explains why he gives to charity: “It makes me
feel happy and proud, and I like making people happy.”
His mom Jeanette couldn’t be more proud of her son’s
philanthropy. “We’ve tried to help him understand that it’s
really important to think about other people and it spreads
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
involved.”
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
community.
Blazing a trail of generosity
Mark of quality programs
Opportunity Partners is at the
table with fellow disability providers,
advocates, trade associations, county
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
changes affecting disability services.
Join the conversation by following these
issues on our Web site:
opportunities.org/advocate.
There are many opportunities to
gain information about our policy
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Opportunity Partners’ 2015 Public Policy Priorities include:
ü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
ü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
ü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
ü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
ü Invest in innovative
community collaborations
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Advocacy and Leadership).
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
Join our Public Policy efforts – your voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy Associate, 952-930-7696 or
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a visit at Golden Opportunity.
Learn more about Christopher and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
$35 or families or group homes of 5 or more. Tickets
available at the door.
Dinner rolls donated by Great Harvest in Minnetonka. Matching funds will be provided by the Carver-Hennepin Chapter of Thrivent Financial.
2015 Board Officers:BOARD CHAIR – Cynthia Lesher, Retired, Xcel Energy
VICE CHAIR – Edson Spencer, Jr., Affinity Capital Management
TREASURER – Gregory Keane, Bush Foundation
SECRETARY – Nancy Wagner, General Mills
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Opportunity Partners lost two friends late last year. Denis Dufresne, 77, and Russell Hedenberg, 86, who both
joined Opportunity Partners when it started in 1953 as Opportunity Workshop, passed away within a few weeks of
one another.
Denis, who died November 23, retired from Opportunity Partners in July. Denis will be
remembered for his kind spirit and love of coffee.
Russell, who died December 15, retired from Opportunity Partners
in September. He was always smiling, and loved animals, singing and
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
anniversary celebration.
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our organization when it started in 1953.
Welcome new board members!Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
Changing disability landscape
Benjamin Knoll
Dean Hildebrandt
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
everyone’s day!
Can you tell us about Herbie?Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie visit?
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
Education Assistance Dog).
We also go to the University
of Minnesota to visit students
before their tests.
How do people react to Herbie?
Reactions
can vary
from raucous
to subdued. At
Golden Opportunity
some people pet him, hug
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
Do you have any favorite memories while visiting Golden Opportunity?
One time, when Herbie and I visited Golden Opportunity,
the people served were singing karaoke. When we walked
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
Doggie in the Window?”
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?We walk out with smiles on our faces, knowing that we
made someone’s day a little better.
Remembering two original members of Opportunity Partners
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participantsFor Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
about is second nature.
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
Partners for Give to the Max Day last November.
“I decided to donate and keep OP going,” Christopher noted.
Supporting community causes resonates with Christopher.
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
business and donates money from card sales to the University
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
Christopher explains why he gives to charity: “It makes me
feel happy and proud, and I like making people happy.”
His mom Jeanette couldn’t be more proud of her son’s
philanthropy. “We’ve tried to help him understand that it’s
really important to think about other people and it spreads
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
involved.”
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
community.
Blazing a trail of generosity
Mark of quality programs
Opportunity Partners is at the
table with fellow disability providers,
advocates, trade associations, county
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
changes affecting disability services.
Join the conversation by following these
issues on our Web site:
opportunities.org/advocate.
There are many opportunities to
gain information about our policy
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Opportunity Partners’ 2015 Public Policy Priorities include:
ü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
ü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
ü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
ü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
ü Invest in innovative
community collaborations
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Advocacy and Leadership).
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
Join our Public Policy efforts – your voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy Associate, 952-930-7696 or
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a visit at Golden Opportunity.
Learn more about Christopher and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
$35 or families or group homes of 5 or more. Tickets
available at the door.
Dinner rolls donated by Great Harvest in Minnetonka. Matching funds will be provided by the Carver-Hennepin Chapter of Thrivent Financial.
2015 Board Officers:BOARD CHAIR – Cynthia Lesher, Retired, Xcel Energy
VICE CHAIR – Edson Spencer, Jr., Affinity Capital Management
TREASURER – Gregory Keane, Bush Foundation
SECRETARY – Nancy Wagner, General Mills
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Opportunity Partners lost two friends late last year. Denis Dufresne, 77, and Russell Hedenberg, 86, who both
joined Opportunity Partners when it started in 1953 as Opportunity Workshop, passed away within a few weeks of
one another.
Denis, who died November 23, retired from Opportunity Partners in July. Denis will be
remembered for his kind spirit and love of coffee.
Russell, who died December 15, retired from Opportunity Partners
in September. He was always smiling, and loved animals, singing and
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
anniversary celebration.
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our organization when it started in 1953.
January marked my one-year anniversary at Opportunity
Partners. What an honor it has been to captain this remarkable
organization over the last year. I’ve learned so much – and
I’m still learning – and, most of all, I have been inspired by the
talents of the people we serve, the commitment of our staff
and the generosity of our caring community.
As a former teacher and school administrator, here are
a few classroom lessons that hit home to me after my first
year leading one of Minnesota’s largest human service
organizations.
Make new friends
A key to our success at Opportunity Partners is building
partnerships. The more people who know our mission, the
more friends we will make, and the more doors we can open
for people we serve. Tell your friends about us, take a tour,
invite us to speak at your business or club. We want to get to
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
disabilities reach greater independence.
Use your imagination
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
big and never give up on people with disabilities and what
they can achieve. P.S. We’re hiring! Check out our openings at
opportunities.org.
Work hard
We operate high quality programs that are efficient,
measurable and exceed the expectations of our customers.
I’m happy to share we recently earned another three-year
accreditation from CARF (see story page 2). This measure of
excellence only challenges us to keep doing better.
Share
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
Say thank you
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERSWinter 2015
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
opportunities.org
Published in the interest of families, friends and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative formats by request.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Editor:Julie Peters
Contributor:Emily Kosta
Designer:Alden Murray
Address or name changes.Do we have your name and address incorrect? Would you
prefer to be removed from this mailing list? Kindly contact us at [email protected] or call 952-912-7442. Thank you!
Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage
PAIDTwin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
New Web site launches
Saturday, May 30, 2015
opportunities.org/gala
You’re Invited
Our new Web site launched in early December,
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
Check out the new site, and let us know how
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
adapting as needed to ensure the site continues
to meet the needs of site visitors.
Thank you to Risdall Marketing Group for
designing a site we can be proud of, and David
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Message from the CEOArmando CamachoReflections on my first year
OpportunityPartnersABILITY REDEFINED Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org
Make new friends
Use your imagination
Work hard
Share
Say thank you
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
bags and moved into a much larger and more accessible place
to call home – a brand new “Keith’s Place.” The 4,000 square
foot Richfield home has a large, open floor plan, an elevator,
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
former home which was just a few miles away.
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
nice,” said Dave.
“I have my own
bathroom and my own
shower!” said Alex.
The guys are already thinking toward spring, planning what
they will do with their outdoor space.
“We are going to put a garden outside,” said Dave.
There was no question about keeping the name Keith’s
Place; the four men – not the structure – were what was most
important to Keith.
“Keith would have liked this house,” said Dave.
Brian, Alex and Dave(Brad, not pictured)