Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Twin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Winter 2015
Message from the CEO
Armando Camacho
Reflections on my first year
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
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
Share
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
952-938-5511
[email protected]
opportunities.org
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
Published in the interest of families, friends
and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative
formats by request.
Editor:
Julie Peters
Contributor:
Emily Kosta
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,
Designer:
Alden Murray
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.
Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Makenew
newfriends
friends
Make
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
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
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!
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
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.
ABILITY REDEFINED
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
Say
Saythank
thankyou
you
nice,” said Dave.
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.
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
New Web site launches
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
Our new Web site launched in early December,
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
Check out the new site, and let us know how
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
[email protected].
Opportunity
Partners
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
Work hard
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
disabilities reach greater independence.
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
bathroom and my own
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
“I have my own
former home which was just a few miles away.
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
Use
Useyour
yourimagination
imagination
Brian, Alex and Dave
(Brad, not pictured)
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
organizations.
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERS
You’re Invited
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
Saturday, May 30, 2015
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
opportunities.org/gala
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org
Changing disability
landscape
Welcome new board members!
Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
Blazing a trail of generosity
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
For Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participants
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
Opportunity Partners is at the
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
people react
advocates, trade associations, county
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
to Herbie?
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
everyone’s day!
Benjamin Knoll
changes affecting disability services.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Join the conversation by following these
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
How do
table with fellow disability providers,
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
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.
Reactions
can vary
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
Can you tell us about Herbie?
from raucous
business and donates money from card sales to the University
Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
to subdued. At
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
opportunities.org/advocate.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
Golden Opportunity
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
some people pet him, hug
gain information about our policy
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Dean Hildebrandt
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
Join our Public Policy efforts – your
voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy
Associate, 952-930-7696 or
[email protected]
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
Opportunity Partners’ 2015
Public Policy Priorities include:
üü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
üü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
üü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
üü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
üü Invest in innovative community collaborations
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie
visit?
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden
Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
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
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
involved.”
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
Education Assistance Dog).
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
We also go to the University
Doggie in the Window?”
of Minnesota to visit students
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?
before their tests.
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
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
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
anniversary celebration.
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Advocacy and Leadership).
Learn more about Christopher
and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a
visit at Golden Opportunity.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
community.
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Mark of quality programs
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
issues on our Web site:
There are many opportunities to
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
about is second nature.
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel
at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
$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.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our
organization when it started in 1953.
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Twin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Winter 2015
Message from the CEO
Armando Camacho
Reflections on my first year
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
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
Share
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
952-938-5511
[email protected]
opportunities.org
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
Published in the interest of families, friends
and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative
formats by request.
Editor:
Julie Peters
Contributor:
Emily Kosta
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,
Designer:
Alden Murray
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.
Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Makenew
newfriends
friends
Make
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
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
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!
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
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.
ABILITY REDEFINED
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
Say
Saythank
thankyou
you
nice,” said Dave.
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.
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
New Web site launches
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
Our new Web site launched in early December,
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
Check out the new site, and let us know how
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
[email protected].
Opportunity
Partners
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
Work hard
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
disabilities reach greater independence.
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
bathroom and my own
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
“I have my own
former home which was just a few miles away.
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
Use
Useyour
yourimagination
imagination
Brian, Alex and Dave
(Brad, not pictured)
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
organizations.
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERS
You’re Invited
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
Saturday, May 30, 2015
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
opportunities.org/gala
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org
Changing disability
landscape
Welcome new board members!
Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
Blazing a trail of generosity
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
For Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participants
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
Opportunity Partners is at the
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
people react
advocates, trade associations, county
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
to Herbie?
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
everyone’s day!
Benjamin Knoll
changes affecting disability services.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Join the conversation by following these
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
How do
table with fellow disability providers,
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
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.
Reactions
can vary
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
Can you tell us about Herbie?
from raucous
business and donates money from card sales to the University
Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
to subdued. At
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
opportunities.org/advocate.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
Golden Opportunity
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
some people pet him, hug
gain information about our policy
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Dean Hildebrandt
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
Join our Public Policy efforts – your
voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy
Associate, 952-930-7696 or
[email protected]
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
Opportunity Partners’ 2015
Public Policy Priorities include:
üü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
üü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
üü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
üü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
üü Invest in innovative community collaborations
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie
visit?
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden
Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
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
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
involved.”
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
Education Assistance Dog).
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
We also go to the University
Doggie in the Window?”
of Minnesota to visit students
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?
before their tests.
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
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
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
anniversary celebration.
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Advocacy and Leadership).
Learn more about Christopher
and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a
visit at Golden Opportunity.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
community.
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Mark of quality programs
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
issues on our Web site:
There are many opportunities to
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
about is second nature.
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel
at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
$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.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our
organization when it started in 1953.
Changing disability
landscape
Welcome new board members!
Benjamin Knoll was most recently with the Greater Twin
Cities United Way as its Chief Operating Officer. He has
Blazing a trail of generosity
Q & A with Sharon & Herbie
For Christopher Blasewitz, 28, giving to causes he cares
Therapy dog brings smiles to Golden Opportunity participants
and passion for giving back to his community. His professional
Opportunity Partners is at the
Christopher, who has autism and is served by Opportunity
Sharon Garber and her cuddly Goldendoodle, Herbie, visit
experience includes leading GroupEx, a U.S. to Latin America
Opportunity Partners’ senior program, Golden Opportunity,
people react
advocates, trade associations, county
electronic services company, as CEO and holding managerial
once per month. Herbie is a therapy dog; he provides joy
to Herbie?
roles at a few Fortune 500 companies including Procter &
and companionship to the people served, truly brightening
Gamble and First Data Corporation.
everyone’s day!
Benjamin Knoll
changes affecting disability services.
Dean Hildebrandt serves as Chief Executive Officer of
Join the conversation by following these
Partners, donated $200 of his own money to Opportunity
How do
table with fellow disability providers,
officials and lawmakers as we navigate
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.
Reactions
can vary
A talented photographer, he runs his own greeting card
Can you tell us about Herbie?
from raucous
business and donates money from card sales to the University
Herbie, 3, is a licensed therapy dog through Pet Partners.
to subdued. At
Ahmann-Martin, a risk and benefits consulting company.
opportunities.org/advocate.
He holds more than 20 years of experience in the financial
A therapy dog, different from a service dog, works as a
Golden Opportunity
services industry, and holds his Doctorate in Organization
team with its owner to provide a calming presence. He has
some people pet him, hug
gain information about our policy
Development from the University of St. Thomas. He also serves
gone through extensive training at the Animal Humane
him and talk to him, while others quietly focus on him.
priorities and everyone is encouraged to
the community as an active member of the Courage Kenny
Society and was tested around individuals in wheelchairs,
Everyone displays their joy in his/her own way.
Rehabilitation Institute Board of Directors.
people who may talk differently, and was also trained
participate in our advocacy efforts.
Dean Hildebrandt
to become immune to loud noises. Data has indicated
Join our Public Policy efforts – your
voice matters! Contact Alicia
Munson, Public Policy & Advocacy
Associate, 952-930-7696 or
[email protected]
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
Opportunity Partners’ 2015
Public Policy Priorities include:
üü Continue the commitment to high
quality Home and Community
Based Services with a 5 percent rate
increase
üü Reform Medical Assistance to
improve quality of life for people
with disabilities
üü Improve effectiveness of Minnesota’s
Disability Waiver Rate System
üü Protect individual choice and
achieve inclusion through
Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan
üü Invest in innovative community collaborations
that positive health effects result from vists with therapy
animals, such as lower blood pressure.
Where else does Herbie
visit?
Opportunity Partners has once again earned a three-year accreditation
from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The
Herbie and I visit three
different nursing homes, a
Why did you decide to take Herbie to Golden
Opportunity?
My cousin, Barbara, attends Golden Opportunity. When
The three-year accreditation represents the highest
level that can be awarded to an organization and shows
to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to
offering services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
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
wanted a therapy dog to visit, and I knew it was meant to
involved.”
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
Education Assistance Dog).
in, they started singing the song, “How Much is that
We also go to the University
Doggie in the Window?”
of Minnesota to visit students
How does it feel to visit these places with Herbie?
before their tests.
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
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
Join us for annual spaghetti dinner March 5!
Mark your calendar for Thursday, March 5 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for the Hopkins Noontime
playing the guitar.
Denis, Russell and surviving original member Bob Garoutte
(pictured with dog Herbie on page 3), were awarded
Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner benefiting Opportunity Partners! Enjoy company with friends
Opportunity Partners’ Hall of Fame medals in 2013 at our 60th
and a delicious meal of spaghetti with meatballs or meatless sauce, salad, bread, dessert
anniversary celebration.
and a beverage. Takeout will also be available.
substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An
organization receiving this accreditation has demonstrated
captain for Walk like MADD, in memory of his friend’s father.
through your whole life. He knows it’s important to be
three-year accreditation from CARF.
Advocacy and Leadership).
Learn more about Christopher
and his card business at
christopherscreationsmn.com
Christopher’s dad died from two years ago. He also is a team
we saw the list of requests, I noticed Golden Opportunity
and Employment Planning and Skills Training. This is our seventh consecutive
efforts, including our self-advocacy group COAL (Committee of
Herbie, Bob and Sharon enjoy a
visit at Golden Opportunity.
Herbie is also a READ (Reading
programs surveyed include Community Employment, Community Integration,
Additionally, we earned “exemplary conformance” for our public policy
community.
be. It always makes Barbara’s day when we come.
women’s shelter, and libraries.
Mark of quality programs
Thank you, Christopher! YOU are making a difference in our
of Minnesota for research for pulmonary fibrosis, which
issues on our Web site:
There are many opportunities to
basketball and softball in Special Olympics.
about is second nature.
extensive experience in business strategy and development,
Christopher also enjoys traveling and competing in
Questions? Contact Grace Hertel
at [email protected]
or 952-912-7442.
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children under 12 and
We will miss you, Denis and Russell! It has been an honor to
serve you all of these years.
$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.
Russell, left, and Denis joined our
organization when it started in 1953.
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Twin Cities, MN
Permit No. 90100
5500 Opportunity Court • Minnetonka, MN 55343
Winter 2015
Message from the CEO
Armando Camacho
Reflections on my first year
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
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
Share
Volume 42 • Issue 1 • Winter 2015
A bigger, better Keith’s Place
952-938-5511
[email protected]
opportunities.org
On December 15, Dave, Brian, Alex and Brad packed their
Published in the interest of families, friends
and supporters of Opportunity Partners, Inc.
This newsletter is available in alternative
formats by request.
Editor:
Julie Peters
Contributor:
Emily Kosta
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,
Designer:
Alden Murray
fully accessible bathrooms, wide doorways and more space for
each of them to call their own.
The printing of this newsletter has been generously donated.
Opportunity Partners is an EEO/AA employer.
Makenew
newfriends
friends
Make
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
Ulland who passed away in 2013, will better accommodate
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!
future needs of the aging residents. The house replaces their
accessibility to meet the needs of the people we serve,” said
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.
ABILITY REDEFINED
amount of space they each have.
“If I have something heavy to lift, I take the elevator – it’s
Say
Saythank
thankyou
you
nice,” said Dave.
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.
Many individuals, groups, volunteers, foundations and
New Web site launches
and commitment to our cause. We look forward to another
successful year, made possible only with your support.
Our new Web site launched in early December,
In closing, I plan to take the year 2015 as an opportunity
complete with a vibrant, clean look, streamlined
to keep learning, so I’d appreciate learning from you on
navigation and mobile-friendly design.
ways we can collaborate, friends you’d like me to meet,
Check out the new site, and let us know how
and opportunities for us to connect. Let’s see how working
together can help even more people with disabilities achieve
[email protected].
Opportunity
Partners
utilizing the elevator and taking advantage of the large
order to gain more support for our cause. Won’t you join us?
their goals and dreams. I can be reached at 952-912-7464 or
Work hard
The men are enjoying the features of their new house,
up for disability issues and share stories about our work in
you! We cannot achieve our mission without your generosity
that encourages our staff to think outside the box, dream
Nick Elsen, Director of Residential Services.
involves staff, people served and families. Together, we’ll speak
disabilities reach greater independence.
resourceful employees. I am proud to lead an organization
bathroom and my own
“It is a priority to make sure that our homes have the
continue our excellent legislative advocacy work, which
businesses supported Opportunity Partners in 2014. Thank
Opportunity Partners has 600 incredibly talented,
“I have my own
former home which was just a few miles away.
In order to succeed, we must share best practices and
know you better! Let’s partner and help more people with
Use
Useyour
yourimagination
imagination
Brian, Alex and Dave
(Brad, not pictured)
Keith’s Place, named after long-time staff member Keith
collaborate with other disability organizations. We will
organizations.
UPDATES FROM OPPORTUNITY PARTNERS
You’re Invited
you are using, sharing and navigating the site.
We are also analyzing traffic to the site and
Saturday, May 30, 2015
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
opportunities.org/gala
Ellis Photography for capturing the beautiful
main page photos.
Check out our new Web site
at opportunities.org