Opportunity Resources, Inc. (ORI) is a nonprofit that has supported adults with disabilities in Western Montana for over 75 years. What started with nine parents and a rented classroom has grown into residential, employment, community, and arts programs across Missoula.
Supporting persons with disabilities in enhancing their quality of life.
70 Years in Missoula
1950s
In 1953, parents of children with disabilities form a parent-teacher association and name their new training school Opportunity School. Two years later, nine parents incorporate as the Opportunity School Foundation, hire a teacher, and rent a classroom near the Missoula fairgrounds.
Opportunity School grows from five to 31 students over the decade.
1960s
Senator Edward T. Dussault of Missoula argues in the Montana legislature for free public education for people with special needs, and the bill passes the House 89 to 0. In 1963, a sheltered workshop is added to the school, with woodworking, ceramics, and weaving groups, and students begin selling what they make.
1970s
The school district takes over the education of Opportunity School students in 1970, and state law soon allows group homes in residential neighborhoods. As Opportunity Workshop expands its manufacturing, one-third of its clients find jobs in the community.
1980s
The Supported Employment Program launches in 1986 with work crews, enclaves, and individual job placements. In 1989, the newly named Opportunity Industries, Inc. receives the Governor’s Award for providing employment to people with disabilities.
1990s
In 1992, Opportunity Industries becomes Opportunity Resources, Inc. (ORI), bringing case management, group homes, and apartments under one organization. The Community Arts program is fully funded in 1993, producing the first Artists of Opportunity calendar, and Supported Living follows in 1995.
2000s
ORI launches EZ Products, a CD repair business, and receives a working ranch in Frenchtown from Joyce Shephard, renamed Opportunity Ranch. The downtown BID Clean Team follows in 2006. ORI grows to 260 staff serving more than 300 people with disabilities.
2010s
The Specialized Services Program begins in 2010, and the Empowerment Fund follows in 2014 to provide grants for emergencies and unmet needs. In 2015, ORI celebrates 60 years and launches Opportunity E-Cycling. ORI now employs more than 350 people serving nearly 700 individuals with disabilities.
2026
Artists of Opportunity opens its new dedicated art center in Central Missoula, with working studios, a gallery, and classes open to anyone, not only people who receive ORI services.
