IN MOTION

 Over time, he’s stepped more confidently into programs, moving from quietly coloring to actively engaging with Warriors and staff throughout the day. His talents shine in so many ways: his incredible handwriting, expressive artwork, and uncanny ability to memorize film lines. Jack’s humor, creativity, and one-of-a-kind personality make him an unforgettable part of our OK community.

 Chris has shown incredible independence as he learns to propagate plants, care for them in water, and take pride in the process. He’s also one of our most dependable helpers, always up and moving, leading tasks like shredding, cleaning, and keeping our space running smoothly. Chris’s growth, determination, and one-of-a-kind personality make him a standout in our community.

OK staff use creative strategies and adaptive tools so each warrior can take part in activities in meaningful ways! The 1:1 model strengthens safety, inclusion, and community by ensuring every voice is heard, even when nonverbal. Above all, a 1:1 simply provides the individualized support that allows every warrior to participate and experience success.

She has stepped into new programs with an open heart, including joining the school visit group at Roosevelt School. Grace greets every student, teacher, and aide with genuine warmth, making each person feel seen. Her smile is one of the first things people notice, and her kindness radiates throughout the day! Grace brings joy, connection, and comfort wherever she goes, and we’re so grateful to have her as part of our Warrior family.

 Over time, he’s stepped more confidently into programs, moving from quietly coloring to actively engaging with Warriors and staff throughout the day. His talents shine in so many ways: his incredible handwriting, expressive artwork, and uncanny ability to memorize film lines. Jack’s humor, creativity, and one-of-a-kind personality make him an unforgettable part of our OK community.

Brilliant and deeply kind, Senai connects with people in such a genuine way. She eagerly steps into new experiences and uses her voice with strength and pride. Her growth is especially clear during school visits: once nervous, she now builds meaningful connections with students at Brooks and Julian. Senai’s leadership, openness, and heart brighten every space she walks into.

 Chris has shown incredible independence as he learns to propagate plants, care for them in water, and take pride in the process. He’s also one of our most dependable helpers, always up and moving, leading tasks like shredding, cleaning, and keeping our space running smoothly. Chris’s growth, determination, and one-of-a-kind personality make him a standout in our community.

such as stocking the Forest Park community fridge or volunteering at Feed My Starving Children, or picking up litter around the riverforest trailside. These experiences allow warriors to see how even small actions can create real change.

What truly sets this program apart is the way it builds confidence, leadership, and connection. Warriors learn that their actions matter, their kindness carries weight, and their presence strengthens our community. Volunteering gives them space to take initiative, collaborate with peers, and feel proud of the impact they make.

The program also helps shift how the broader community views people with disabilities not as bystanders, but as capable, visible, and valued contributors who make our community more inclusive.

OK staff use creative strategies and adaptive tools so each warrior can take part in activities in meaningful ways! The 1:1 model strengthens safety, inclusion, and community by ensuring every voice is heard, even when nonverbal. Above all, a 1:1 simply provides the individualized support that allows every warrior to participate and experience success.

He spent many days with our team and countless hours with his own to produce a powerful visual representation of our mission. We are using the calendar as an appreciation piece for our community of supporters. Each month highlights a distinct group of Warriors, key events, and important mission moments. We are deeply grateful for Jeff’s generosity and talent.

to their hearts, valuable to the community, and fun for everyone.

In 2023 NYFF & OK forged a bond and began a journey of partnership. Along the way of this 3-year journey, this group of good-hearted humans has hosted events in benefit of Opportunity Knocks, raising friends and funds for OK.

It is hard to express the impression this partnership has had on OK. They’ve been all-in on supporting everything we do. Whether putting on their cleats and coming out to play in the OK Classic or getting all dapped up for the gala, the NYFF crew has shown out for Opportunity Knocks at every turn. They’ve sent groups out to the farm to help, groups into OK Programs to volunteer. It really feels like they are embedded. A tangible part of us. – Phil Carmody, President

They have raised more than $125,000 in support of the Warrior Mission. They have volunteered as individuals and as a group in the programs, on the farm and at events. They have also helped us find new staff to join our team, develop creative marketing projects and plug in at every level of the organization! We are so grateful for this incredible partnership and all of the depth of the relationships that have developed over the years. Please join us in appreciating them.

We have had the opportunity to speak directly with Fenwick students about our mission and volunteer opportunities, which has led to a steady stream of passionate and dedicated volunteers. Fenwick students consistently arrive eager to help, quick to connect with participants, and genuinely excited to support the Opportunity Knocks mission. Their kindness, enthusiasm, and commitment make them a valued part of our community.

way of sponsorship of our events. We’ve known the Planeks since we laid down our early roots. Always a great partnership, but this year raised up to the next level.

“Being able to partner with Opportunity Knocks in helping to provide the safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment that it extends to its Warriors is part of our belief in building a stronger, more inclusive community. We try to extend similar comforts to our tenants in making our community a more valuable place to live.

Witnessing first-hand the involvement and participation of the O.K. Warriors is both remarkable and truly rewarding. Seeing them work, participate, and thrive under their guidance and leadership provides us with the motivation to support such an impactful organization that’s making such a difference in the Warriors’ lives, and the lives of those around us.” – Terry Fahey, Oak Park Apartments

The Giving Tuesday love was followed up by them backing the costs – labor and materials – that were needed to establish the waterway access on the new farm site. The OP Apts crew sponsored the whole job, dispatched their crews to do the work and did a perfect job. They did it all with a smile and let us know it was a privilege. We couldn’t be more grateful for the love.

He spent many days with our team and countless hours with his own to produce a powerful visual representation of our mission. We are using the calendar as an appreciation piece for our community of supporters. Each month highlights a distinct group of Warriors, key events, and important mission moments. We are deeply grateful for Jeff’s generosity and talent.

remarkable location less than a quarter mile from our program headquarters. We engaged our longstanding partners at Forest Park Village Hall, and their support enabled us to pursue a shared vision for relocating the farm to The Grove—a 2.5-acre site just north of the historic Altenheim, featuring structures suitable for restoration and community use.

Our first year at The Grove operated under a Use of the Public Way agreement while we began work toward a long-term lease. We completed significant groundwork, including the grow area buildout, bed construction, water access improvements, and accessible pathways. Year two promises even greater progress. We are grateful for the Village’s partnership and the strong foundation it has created for the farm’s future.

to their hearts, valuable to the community, and fun for everyone.

In 2023 NYFF & OK forged a bond and began a journey of partnership. Along the way of this 3-year journey, this group of good-hearted humans has hosted events in benefit of Opportunity Knocks, raising friends and funds for OK.

It is hard to express the impression this partnership has had on OK. They’ve been all-in on supporting everything we do. Whether putting on their cleats and coming out to play in the OK Classic or getting all dapped up for the gala, the NYFF crew has shown out for Opportunity Knocks at every turn. They’ve sent groups out to the farm to help, groups into OK Programs to volunteer. It really feels like they are embedded. A tangible part of us. – Phil Carmody, President

They have raised more than $125,000 in support of the Warrior Mission. They have volunteered as individuals and as a group in the programs, on the farm and at events. They have also helped us find new staff to join our team, develop creative marketing projects and plug in at every level of the organization! We are so grateful for this incredible partnership and all of the depth of the relationships that have developed over the years. Please join us in appreciating them.

Opportunity Knocks was proud to be one of the first organizations to test this innovative program, and the experience exceeded all expectations. The students were engaged, thoughtful, and deeply supportive of our participants and staff. We are thrilled to continue this partnership as the Capstone program expands to include the entire senior class this year.

We have had the opportunity to speak directly with Fenwick students about our mission and volunteer opportunities, which has led to a steady stream of passionate and dedicated volunteers. Fenwick students consistently arrive eager to help, quick to connect with participants, and genuinely excited to support the Opportunity Knocks mission. Their kindness, enthusiasm, and commitment make them a valued part of our community.