About Us
OUR VISION
It is the vision of Opportunity Enterprises to create a fully integrated community where life for
persons with developmental disabilities is valuable, purposeful and fulfilling.
OUR MISSION
Opportunity Enterprises works to maximize self-sufficiency and enrich the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
OUR VALUES
-
We believe it possible to make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals we serve;
-
We accept people as they are and support and challenge each person to achieve their fullest growth and development;
-
We will listen and act when our clients speak for themselves;
-
We believe in servant leadership;
-
We know that well-trained and motivated staff make a difference in the lives of our clients;
-
We support innovation and embrace change.
OUR STORY
Founded in 1967, Opportunity Enterprises is a non-profit organization that strives to help individuals with developmental disabilities reach their fullest potential and live a full, enriching life.
​
Recognized as one of the premier agencies serving those with disabilities, Opportunity Enterprises provides children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cognitive delays, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), severe physical and mental disabilities, Alzheimer’s, dementia, loss of limbs and other delays and disabilities a supportive environment where they can learn, continually increase their skills, and reach their maximum potential. At OE, we understand that every one of our clients has their own unique strengths and challenges. As such, our staff works one-on-one with each client and their family to develop a comprehensive plan for care, support and growth that ensures that your loved one makes continual progress year after year.
Simply put, we help people of all abilities live, learn, and grow. We’re in the business of Amazing People!
CEO WELCOME
Welcome, and thank you for visiting Opportunity Enterprises’ website. Whether you are considering services for yourself or a loved one, are a current or future staff member, supporter, donor, or customer of one of our business services, thank you for taking time to learn about our amazing people.
​
Opportunity Enterprises is a premier agency, providing educational, vocational, and residential services to more than 1,000 youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. We continue to provide services focused on goals and choices through a variety of day service programs, curricular activities, and enrichment programs like art and assistive technology.
​
With the care of our dedicated employees, amazing people are making grand strides towards self-sufficiency and independence every day.
​
Our services provide hope to not only a family, but a community. Our commitment is to uphold this hope daily because of the incredible support from community leaders, families, businesses, and sponsors who support our mission.
We are an option for many families in our community, and we are honored to be promoting more purposeful and enriching lives for individuals with disabilities in Northwest Indiana.
​I invite you to continue your journey with Opportunity Enterprises. Follow us on social media and invite your friends to do the same. Volunteer at one of our events or for one of our programs; the experience will change your life. Donate to our mission; you will change the lives of children and adults with disabilities right here in your community. Find your own unique way to become a part of our mission. Thank you for taking the time to learn about the amazing people we serve.
​
Thank you,
Neil Samahon
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Marc Ruiz Chair Oak Partners
John Freyek Vice Chair First Merchants Bank
Rick AmRhein Secretary Valparaiso University
Michelle Gonzalez Treasurer Laciak CPA
Nicole Alcorn Teachers Credit Union
Rod Gayda Gayda Properties, Inc.
James Keilman Urschel Laboratories
Natalie Krivas AM Stabilizers
Mary Liggett NIPSCO
Patrick Lyp City of Valparaiso
Lori Moulton 1st Source Bank
Rick Rondinelli In Touch Pharmaceuticals
Chris Runnion CATSI, Inc.
Kathleen Smith Portage Township School Corp.
Kevin Steele Burke, Costanza, & Carberry
Lanie Steinwart Valparaiso University
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Neil Samahon CEO
Valerie Thill CPO
Mark Fisher CFO
Stephanie Anderson CHRO
MANAGEMENT TEAM
Lisa Barrios Daily Living Skills Director
Lisa Cole Senior Director of Day Programs
Carol Dattolico Social Services Director
LaShanta Downs TREND Director
Kacie Ensign Development Director
Mickey Fajdich Enriching Possibilities Director
Jennifer Fine Retail Director
Tina Foreman Director of Nursing
Joe Hogan Director of Business Services
Marie Kubina Curriculum Director
LaTosha Knight Financial Controller
Suja Pati Respite Director
Julie McKean Director of Facilities
Kathleen Parks Savich Community Employment Dir.
Jamie Ramirez Director of Supported Living
Kate Ramirez Agency Training Director
Rebecca Scott Senior Director of Residential
Cassie Stanley Renewed Horizons Director
Claudia Taylor Transportation Director
OUR FINANCES
FINANCIALS (July 2018 - June 2019)
REVENUE
State Funding
Public Support
Sales Revenue
Miscellaneous
Total Revenue
14,080,409
2,065,649
1,838,251
342,699
$18,327,099
EXPENSES
Programs
Fundraising
Social Enterprises
Home Office
Total Expenses
13,763,008
513,105
1,951,871
1,913,586
$18,141,570
Public Support Breakdown
Programs Breakdown
OUR HISTORY