Opportunity Partners job developer named for state level DSP Award

Kara Kowski with Opportunity Partners, a motivated expert across multiple areas in her field, recognized by Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation

As an exemplary job developer in the western suburbs who greatly impacts people with disabilities, Kara Koski was named for a Direct Support Professional (DSP) Award by the Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation (MOHR).  The honor for “Employment Service” recognizes individuals for exemplary work, skills, impact and the “creation and implementation of innovative and proactive services.”

Gwen Bowler, left, presents a Direct Support Professional Award to Kara Kowski, a job developer with Opportunity Partners, a large disability nonprofit in the Twin Cities.
Gwen Bowler, left, presents a Direct Support Professional Award to Kara Kowski, a job developer with Opportunity Partners, a large disability nonprofit in the Twin Cities.

Kowski builds relationships with employers and referral sources and helps individuals to prepare for work and understand work expectations, according to Andrea Pearson with Opportunity Partners. The award winner helps people with disabilities to find jobs, and she also supports them through follow-up visits and other assistance once they are employed.

“Before Opportunity Partners, I worked in the school system, so the skills transferred over,” said Kowski. In her seventh year with the nonprofit, she’s also helped job placements to expand their work hours and coordinate the timing for services and other activities outside of the work day.

“She represents Opportunity Partners with dignity and professionalism,” said Pearson. Building a following, Kowski even has employers inquiring with her about possible job candidates she can recommend. Kowski advises the individuals she serves that they need to learn to talk to employers face to face.

The award was presented at the MOHR Summer Conference in St. Cloud. MOHR services more than 100 adult day, day training and habilitation, extended employment, and supported employment service providers across the state.

MOHR members serve more than 26,000 Minnesotans with disabilities. Members are committed to respect for each individual, a person-centered approach and expanding work opportunities. More information is available at mohrmn.org, on Facebook and on Twitter.