ABOUT US
Who we are.
LAYING A FOUNDATION
In 1960, concerned friends and families of the developmentally disabled in Kay County wanted for their children exactly what everyone wants for children - the ability to grow up, to be successful, and to “live life to the fullest.” Using preferred education models for the developmentally disabled, these family members and community leaders began a school dedicated to the developmentally disabled children in Kay County reaching their potential. The children grew and flourished. When education models changed nationally, the organization adapted and continued to serve the disabled with additional programs and services. In 1983, the organization expanded the mission to include residential programs and enhanced the existing vocational programs.
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Today, the Center has over 50 individuals working in a workshop, group employment, or employment
consulting. About one third of these individuals participate in the residential program. They live in
group homes, community living homes, or in the community group homes. The Center also
provides therapy services to over 50 children in our community.
OUR MISSION
Empowering exceptional citizens and their families.
GOVERNANCE
The Opportunity Center Board of Directors governs the Opportunity Center programs. The Board oversees both the vocational and the residential programs available to those with developmental disabilities in Kay County. Meeting monthly, policies governing the programs are reviewed ensuring the best possible programs are offered to the clients. This board also operates one of our two thrift shops in Kay County.
The Kay County Council for the Opportunity Center owns and governs the property utilized by the Opportunity Center. The Council is also the fund-raising and marketing arm of the Opportunity Center. The Council holds an Annual Sponsorship Drive to support the property and hosts the, “Princess for a Night” Father-Daughter Dance fund-raising event for capital projects. The Council also operates one of our two thrift shops in Kay County.
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The Opportunity Center Foundation Board of Directors oversees the perpetual funding stream, The Opportunity Center Foundation. Established in 1963 the Foundation provides annual operation monies to the Center. The Cherokee Strip Golf Classic, memorials, and estate gifts provide financial support to the Foundation.
OUR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Julie Grigsba, Executive Director | jgrigsba@opcenterok.org
Rob Bays, Director of Buildings & Grounds | rbays@opcenterok.org
Nichole York, Whimsy/Whimsy Too Manager | whimsy@opcenterok.org
Cortney Burns, Village Screen Print Manager| cburns@opcenterok.org
Lisa Robinson, Director of Development | lrobinson@opcenterok.org
Lacie Young, Human Resources Director | lyoung@opcenterok.org
Kelly Marshall, Director of Programs & Services| kmarshall@opcenterok.org