Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities disability services nonprofit, celebrated the opening of a new location for its Karlins Center with an official ribbon cutting recently. The center offers day and enrichment services to adults with autism and other disabilities. 

“Karlins Center is an important day service location for adults who benefit from close interactions with staff through a variety of inclusive activities,” said Opportunity Partners President and CEO Bill Schultz. 

Opportunity Partners-Karlins Center has been operating since 1996 in Plymouth in a leased space and relocated to a new building during the summer. The new building, which is owned by the organization, was renovated with the needs of people served in mind. It features larger and brighter spaces and a more inviting and comfortable environment. 

Opportunity Partners-Karlins Center was named for Miriam Karlins, a founding member of the organization and a lifelong advocate for people with disabilities. She was an active Opportunity Partners board member, parent and volunteer. Her daughter, Sandra, was served by the organization for many years. 

“Miriam’s accomplishments over the years were monumental, resulting in sweeping societal changes for people with disabilities,” Schultz said. 

Numerous staff and people served by the organization attended the ribbon cutting, in addition to the Karlins family, Plymouth Mayor Jeff Wosje and Sen. Ann Rest (DFL-New Hope). 

“All in all, Opportunity Partners is a positive part of our community .. Plymouth is a more inclusive, stronger city, thanks to the presence of Opportunity Partners,” Wosje said. 

Currently, 34 people are served at Opportunity Partners-Karlins Center, with more expected to enroll as additional staff are hired.