June 4, 2020
A few words to our community
We are all reeling after the senseless death of George Floyd. At OP, our hearts are heavy as we see and feel the pain expressed in our great communities. We are committed to listening and learning together to ensure we have a culture that sees and values all people. We will do our best to be part of the healing in our neighborhoods and communities with OP's values of Impact, Choice, Heart and Partnership as our guide. Now, more than ever, we remember " we are better together. " Thank you for being part of our inclusive, caring and generous community.
Armando Camacho to depart for new opportunity
OP’s leader President & CEO Armando Camacho has accepted a new position as President & CEO of Amherst H. Wilder Foundation, providing services to support mental health, housing stability, early childhood development, and healthy aging for thousands of people throughout the Greater Saint Paul community.

Armando’s last day with Opportunity Partners will be June 26 . While we are very sad to see him leave OP, we know this is an amazing opportunity for Armando.

Armando has led OP with great energy and wisdom since January 2014. He worked with team members to develop a new organizational mission, vision and values that everyone embraced, and created a person-centered, collaborative organization with mission at the core. Armando has demonstrated compassion and positivity throughout the challenges of the pandemic, leaving OP well-positioned financially and with a strong leadership team to continue moving forward in the years ahead.

Per our succession plan, Bill Schultz, Executive Vice President, Business Development and Operations, has been named Acting President & CEO. Bill joined Opportunity Partners in 2015, bringing more than 20 years of experience including several years as a CEO.

We wish Armando the best in this new opportunity!
OP day program status
Our five day programs remain closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like all disability day programs throughout the state, OP is waiting for approval from the Minnesota Department of Human Services and Minnesota Department of Health for when we can reopen. In the meantime, we have developed extensive infection control procedures to enhance safety for when people do return. We will keep you informed as things change; updates are also posted on the OP web site.

To our business customers: Ou r essential production operations remain open, and we are actively working to meet your packaging needs, safely and effectively.

Many of you have asked how you can help. The ongoing closure of our day programs has been financially challenging to OP and organizations like ours.There are two ways you can help:
Your support inspires us
 
Even while our day services are closed, we are working hard in caring for individuals in our group homes and apartments, and supporting individuals who live on their own. As many families have been unable to visit their loved ones due to the pandemic, it is imperative that our staff continue to provide vital supports so people can stay safe at home.

Costs have gone up as we've increased our residential staffing levels and gathered protective and cleaning supplies to ensure safety.

We are so grateful to you for showing support during our online fundraising efforts this spring for our residential services. With our annual Gala rescheduled to October 2, you stepped up to help fill the void by making generous gifts, and so many of you continue to reach out with kindness and support. We are committed to serve the community that counts on OP now and in the future. With your support, we know anything is possible!
A garden of hope brings joy

One of Peter's goals was to build a garden in the unused side yard at his residence, OP-Keith's Place in Richfield. Peter researched in April and his plans began to come to fruition in May. His sister Laura helped by gathering plants, compost and tools. Program Manager Alyssa Cleveland listened to Peter's ideas and assisted along the way, helping Peter plant the very first plant together.

"It melts my heart seeing my supervisor paving the way of what teamwork really looks like," said Assistant Program Manager Amanda Carlson. "She is an inspiring leader; and I have learned a lot from her during these past couple of months. COVID-19 has turned our world upside down, and she has been so understanding, leading employees and the people we support with empathy and compassion. To me, that is how teamwork makes the dream work!"