Opportunity Enterprises Honors Clients And Community At Annual Celebration Of Achievement

On Wednesday, Opportunity Enterprises held their annual Celebration of Achievement at Aberdeen Manor in Valparaiso. The Celebration brings together and honors local businesses and individuals who have had a great impact on O.E.’s clients and programs. Client of the Year awards are also given to clients who have demonstrated significant achievement in reaching their daily goals.

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“It’s a day of thanks,” said Opportunity Enterprises CEO Ellen DeMartinis. “We’re recognizing the accomplishments of the people we serve in all the different program levels and the work being done in the community. We want to thank the members of the community who, through volunteerism and their support of our people, have had a great impact on what we do.”

“It’s truly a privilege to serve these clients,” DeMartinis continued. “To have such a dedicated staff is wonderful as well. It’s a blessing to have the opportunity to serve the 1100 clients that O.E. has. The members of the community here today can take pride in the fact that their support emotionally and financially has helped to change lives. In some way they are all a part of the success of the individuals here.”

“This event is one of my favorites,” said O.E. Board Chair Kevin Steele. “O.E. makes such a significant difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors with disabilities. We’re celebrating the success of our clients and the continuing support of our community.”

Emcee for the event was Bruce Berner. Berner is a graduate of Valparaiso University and is currently the President of the City Plan Commission in Valparaiso.

“I’ve had the opportunity over the last couple weeks to visit O.E.’s locations,” Berner said. “At a time when the world seems more and more filled with anger the minute you walk through the door you just feel something different. There is no anger. It’s just a wonderful place to be.”

This year’s Business of the Year Award went to White Lodging, who has shown an outstanding commitment to OE and their mission. The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Don Evans for his dedication to OE and its clients. Nancy Sanders received the Direct Support Professional of the Year Award for her promotion of goodwill to all, leading by example and standing for excellence in all things.

Client of the Year Awards: 

  • Josephine Montalvo - Renewed Horizons
  • Colette Mayer - Daily Living Skills
  • Bradley Roop - Jobsource
  • Russell Dederian - Enriching Possibilities
  • Wayne Privett - Outsource

Opportunity Enterprises works to maximize self-sufficiency and enrich the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. To get involved visit www.oppent.org