February 2021
Welcome to our February E-news!
New year, new look! Welcome to our monthly OP E-newsletter, where we'll continue to bring you success stories, updates and news from OP. Have a success story to share? Let us know at [email protected].
Staff Spotlight & careers
Meet Emily, one of our featured OP team members! Emily began her career as a volunteer and moved into a variety of paid positions from direct care to a role on our Finance team. Like many organizations, OP faces a critical staff shortage. Know someone looking for a full- or part-time position with flexible hours, great benefits and the chance to gain experience and make an impact in our community? Check out our job openings!
OP Gala - We're going virtual!
Mark your calendar for Thursday, May 13 from 7-7:30 pm as our annual Gala goes virtual for the first time! Tickets will be free, and everyone is invited! Leave the glitz and glam behind, and we'll spend this spring safe at home focused on our outcome - supporting people who count on OP every day. The event will include mission moments, entertainment and a premiere and silent auction with fabulous prizes. Sponsorships are going fast - if interested, email [email protected]. Watch for registration information to come!
Mission Moment - Job success!
Tom was working at a senior housing facility when his hours were cut due to COVID-19. He soon became bored at home, and longed to get back to a meaningful routine. That's where OP stepped in, arranging a job try-out at Driskill's Downtown Market in Hopkins. Tom did so well that the manager soon offered him a permanent job. "Thanks for being the best job coach," he said to his OP staff Cara Buettner, who also snapped this photo of Tom in action.
Services update - and how to reach us
We continue to make progress in supporting more people in our Day and Employment Services, after so many disruptions due to the pandemic. Our Day Services are operating under the limitation of 50 percent licensed capacity, including staff. About 250 people are now attending enrichment activities and on-site work, 65 people are working in Supported Employment Teams in the community, about 100 people are participating in virtual services, and 250 individuals are being supported by us in their own community jobs or working with us in seeking jobs. If you would like information about returning to OP services, contact [email protected] or call 952-930-4202.