Opportunity Enterprises (OE) is proud to announce that two of its valued team members and partner were honored at Indiana Association of Rehabilitative Facilities’ (INARF) 2025 Annual Award Celebration, recognizing excellence in service and partnership within Indiana’s intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) community.
Benjamin Dunn, curriculum imagineer at OE, received the prestigious Keystone Award, which honors the most outstanding direct service professional among INARF member organizations. Dunn’s creative and compassionate approach to client engagement exemplifies the mission of the human services field. Whether leading an art class, creating adaptive equipment for participation of all OE clients, guiding a boat ride or cheering on clients during games, Dunn’s presence brings joy and dignity to every interaction.
“Each project is more than an activity; it’s a way Ben creates opportunity for someone to shine. His blend of technical talent and emotional intelligence is unmatched,” said Neil Samahon, president/CEO for OE.
Kathleen Parks, senior director of employment services and transition at OE, was honored with the Pinnacle Award, which recognizes outstanding leadership and innovation as a professional-level staff member. Parks is the visionary behind life-changing initiatives such as OE’s Vocational Training and Empowerment Center (VTEC) and a consulting program that works with companies, nationwide, in fulfilling their workforce shortages by hiring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities – serving as a national model for inclusive workforce development.
“Kathie is the architect of transformational initiatives. Her leadership is redefining what is possible helping drive OE’s evolution from a workshop-based model to a future-focused and community-integrated provider for the workforce,” said Neil Samahon.
HealthLinc received the Partnership Award, presented to a community partner making significant contributions to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. HealthLinc’s partnership with OE to create a fully integrated, accessible healthcare clinic near OE’s main facility will remove critical barriers to care for people with disabilities.
“One of HealthLinc’s most significant contributions to our Northwest Indiana communities is the creation of a clinic that will offer competent, compassionate care from providers who understand the unique needs of people with disabilities,” said Neil Samahon.
Opportunity Enterprises nominated Dunn, Parks and HealthLinc for their outstanding commitment to advancing inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for individuals with IDD (Intellectual Developmental Disabilities). Additionally, OE employee Kelly Trivette, OE’s JobSource employment specialist, graduated from INARF’s Leadership Academy. The professional development program targets employees who demonstrate a commitment to the future of our industry, leadership, and a strong drive to achieve greater levels of responsibility.
About Opportunity Enterprises, Inc.
For nearly 60 years, Opportunity Enterprises has worked to create inclusive and equitable opportunities for people of all abilities. OE is in the business of amazing people, with approximately 400 staff nearly 1,400 people each year. For more information, visit oppent.org.
About Indiana Association of Rehabilitative Facilities (INARF)
INARF is Indiana’s principal membership organization representing providers of services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For over 51 years, INARF has promoted quality programs, professional development, and advocacy to strengthen the system of supports for Hoosiers with disabilities. Learn more at www.inarf.org.
OE’s 2025 INARF winners and partners. (Photo taken by OE’s Chief Strategy Officer)