April 2021
April is Autism Acceptance Month
Our specialized autism services help people, including Eddie, achieve their goals, like developing relationships and improving communication. Eddie has attended OP at Karlins Center since 2013, where he's enjoyed doing light packaging, working on puzzles, solving math problems, and going bowling or to local parks. He's adapted well to the changing routines that COVID-19 has brought, including wearing a face covering. Read Eddie's story and how we're celebrating Autism Acceptance Month at OP.
OP Gala - We're Going Virtual!
It's coming fast! Mark your calendar for Thursday, May 13 at 7 pm as our annual Gala goes virtual for the first time! Registration is now open and is FREE to everyone! Please join us for our most important fundraiser of the year. You can enhance your experience with our Gala in a Box, Gala for Two, and Gala for a Group packages!
COVID-19 Vaccine Progress!
OP staff member Linda-Mary Bruns received her COVID-19 vaccine at our March 31 clinic, held at our Bren Road Service Center in Minnetonka. In one day, we provided more than 300 vaccines in this collaboration with A&E Pharmacy, and were able to offer vaccinations to our community partners at Hammer, ICA Food Shelf and Senior Community Services.
Pets Can Help During a Pandemic
Cindy was very active before the pandemic – going to work, church, festivals and Twins games. COVID-19 changed it all, with Cindy mostly staying home except for work. To ease her loneliness, her staff, Heather Chenault, helped Cindy to research, choose and adopt a cat. They discussed the responsibilities of owning a pet, and built a cat tree together. The cat came home last month. “She named her Penny and they are both doing really well with each other,” Heather said. Congrats, Cindy!
Meet Today's Staff Spotlight
Meet Julie, one of our featured OP team members! Julie helps people succeed at their jobs - such a critical role as we work toward greater inclusion in our communities. OP is hiring! Do you know someone looking for a job with flexible hours, great benefits and the chance to make a difference? Check out our job openings!
Ready to Return to Services?
As we welcome more people back to day services, please reach out if you would like information about safely returning to OP services or taking part in our virtual services. You can call 952-930-4202 or email [email protected].