THE OPPORTUNITY TREE - Key Persons
Alex started at The Opportunity Tree in 2019 and brings over 10 years of operational management experience to the organization. This includes experience across many different industries, including both For-profit & Non-profits at various scales.
He is proud to be one of the original coaches of The Tree's Special Olympics team.
Kelli joined the Opportunity Tree as CEO in May of 2017. She has a diverse background in finance and non-profit leadership. Kelli is a passionate leader with success in organizational transformation based on data and outcomes.
Kelli began her non-profit career at Central Arizona Shelter Services in the finance department. In 2009 Kelli moved over to STARS (Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services) and served as their COO. While at STARS Kelli realized her true passion in the non-profit field was supporting and working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Kelli leads The Opportunity Tree team in providing high-quality, person-centered supports that focus on long-term sustainability and innovation. In addition to her role at The Opportunity Tree, Kelli also serves on the board of the Arizona chapter of The Association for People Supporting Employment First, is an AAPPD (Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities) Executive Committee Member and is a graduate of Valley Leadership - Class 41.
Kelli earned her Bachelor's degree in accounting and a Master's degree in Non-Profit Leadership. In her free time, she enjoys her family, traveling, cooking and eating.
Neal joined The Opportunity Tree in 2019 and served as Director of Operations until beginning his current role as COO in the summer of 2023.
Neal has over two decades of experience working with people of all ability levels in various capacities including developing, leading, implementing, and expanding programs and services that contribute directly to the quality of life of people with disabilities. These include youth programs, community inclusion supports, adult programming, employment services, Special Olympics sports, and more.
Neal holds a Master's degree from ASU in Social Justice and Human Rights, Non-Profit Organizational Leadership, and counts his most rewarding experiences as being on the front lines of promoting the development of a society that fully embraces individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusion, advocacy and opportunities.
Job Titles:
- Director of Community Living
Nicole joined The Opportunity Tree in June 2022 and currently serves as the Program Director of Community Living. Nicole joined The Opportunity Tree with 15 years of experience in the ID/DDD field. Having developed in the field from DSP to Director, Nicole prides herself on "Having done the job".
The belief that quality services start with quality staff is the cornerstone to Nicole's practice in the ID/DDD field. In her career Nicole has certified over 2,000 DCW and has over 7,000 hours of facilitation and leadership development. Nicole is a Lead Instructor for Article 9 and Prevention and Support, holds affiliations or accreditations with the National Task Group (Dementia Capable Care), Wiley DiSC, Be Safe (Police & Member training).
Pursuing her passion, Nicole presented an original leadership training program at 2014 Arizona SSCIP Conference, lead and original "Working with Children with Autism" seminar at the 2016 After School Conference. Nicole served as Chair in the DCW Alliance 2019-2022, co-chair of the I-AADAP Communication and Policy Committee 2019-2022.
Rachel, CPA, CGMA is the CFO of The Opportunity Tree. She provides oversight and management of the financial operation for the organization.
Rachel has specialized in non-profit accounting and management since 2005, having spent 9 years working with organizations serving people experiencing homelessness and 4 years with arts and education organizations.
In addition to her work at The Opportunity Tree, Rachel enjoys working with small non-profits during their financial startup to ensure their future success.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director - Casa Grande Campus
Sabrina has been a member of The Opportunity Tree team since 2015 and currently serves as the Assistant Director of both our Casa Grande site and Community Living settings.
Sabrina started working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 1993 in New York State as a Direct Care Counselor.
Sierra started at The Opportunity Tree in August of 2024, currently serving as the Supported Aging Supervisor and Occupational Therapist. She received her bachelor's of science in Public Health where her practicum focused on promoting employment in the DDD community.
She then received her Registered Behavioral Therapist license where she practiced ABA therapy with kids on the spectrum for two years. In May of 2024, she received her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy.
Along with her training in occupational therapy and Dementia care, Sierra is excited to continue the growth of the Supported Aging Group at TOT. Also to overall promote independence in occupational engagement among the members.
Job Titles:
- Marketing & Development Coordinator
Vera joined The Opportunity Tree in 2024 to leverage her skills to further the organization's mission and impact. With over 8 years of success in aligning audience interests with business goals through her expertise in digital marketing, she brings a wealth of experience to the team.
Her dedication extends beyond professional achievements, as she has been a committed volunteer helping vulnerable populations and animal rescue organizations since 2013. Vera is excited to work for an organization that makes such a remarkable impact on the community.