Meet the Team

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The Leadership Team

at Opportunities, Inc.

Robert Baynard

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rob is an experienced professional in the field of Developmental Disabilities Services. For over 17 years, he has continued to work tirelessly to help communities recognize the importance of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and to ensure widespread inclusivity. Rob has worked in direct support services, case management, quality assurance, and program oversight across the state of Maryland. In the last ten years, he has focused on services within the counties of Prince George and Montgomery. Currently, Rob serves as a Board member of the Maryland Association of Community Services. He Chairs the Prince George’s Provider Council, co-Chairs the Transition Workgroup of Montgomery County, and previously held an executive appointment to the Howard County Commission for Transitioning Students with Disabilities.

“Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities bring so much value to the communities where they live, and it is my hope to work to increase the community's awareness of this. I believe that everyone should be included and given opportunities to build skills and achieve the goals that they set for themselves. Here at Opportunities, Inc. I believe we are working to help the community recognize the impact that people with disabilities have.”

Erin Fig

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Erin holds a Masters of Art from GWU in Art Therapy, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist in the state of Maryland and a Board Certified Art Therapist. Previously, Erin worked as a Teaching Assistant for the School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Austin, Texas for two years. She worked with children who were visually impaired or blind and diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It was this experience that helped to solidify her career path. Erin’s background in Art Therapy has allowed her to create meaningful relationships with the people she serves by leveraging alternate forms of communication and using different mediums to connect and get a small glimpse into their world. Erin joined Opportunities Inc. over 10 years ago.

“I enjoy the human to human connection that is integral to our work. It reminds me of what is most important in life and is very grounding. I also enjoy challenges and the ability to think creatively. This comes into play when designing services that will best support someone to achieve their goals.”

Kristin Nelson

DIRECTOR OF AGENCY INITIATIVES

Kristin started working to improve the lives of adults with developmental disabilities in 2006. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from McDaniel College in 2010 and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2014. Kristin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland and is a member of the Board of Directors for a Nonprofit her family started in 2017 which supports recovery centers, churches, people in recovery and their families. At Opportunities Inc. Kristin works to ensure all Human Resource needs are met. She oversees our agency’s Quality Assurance and staff training - to guarantee full compliance with all regulations set by the State of Maryland. In addition, Kristin engages in development projects with consultants to identify grants and processes for fundraising.

“Kristin joined Opportunities Inc. in 2015 and her passion for helping others is a driving force.”

Netsanet Firew

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Netsanet is an experienced Accounting and Finance professional of over 10 years and has a strong background as Staff Accountant. Netsanet’s deep knowledge of both areas has allowed her to expertly support our organization’s objectives for almost three years.

“Knowing that I am doing my part to help the people we serve is what I enjoy most about working at Opportunities Inc. Over the years, I have grown to love not just what I do, but also the company I proudly work for.”

Lauren Rosa, MPS, SHRM-CP

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Lauren brings a vast array of experience from customer service, education, food, and beverage, and, most recently, working as the right-hand to the CEO of a tech start-up. Her almost four years in a regional operations role leading a large team solidified her passion for people and creating a workplace where employees can thrive. Lauren holds a Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Maryland and is a certified HR professional through SHRM.

“I am excited to bring my love of people and impact-based work together to support the hardworking staff at Opportunities Inc. Being able to serve those making the most impact in the community motivates me to provide the best HR services.”