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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.