TROY – Community Opportunities is proud to announce the appointment of Orlando Smith as the new Director of Employment Services, bringing decades of experience and a deep passion for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

Smith began his career in 1991, originally viewing the work as a temporary opportunity. However, it quickly evolved into a lifelong passion.

“At first, it was just a job,” he said. “But once I started supporting individuals achieving their goals, it became a passion.”

Over the years, Smith has balanced his work in the field with teaching Business Administration courses at the collegiate level, including three full-time teaching positions. Despite his academic commitments, he never stepped away from advocating for people with developmental disabilities.

His commitment to employment services was driven by a glaring need he witnessed firsthand.

“Too many people with developmental disabilities were turned away from employment opportunities—whether paid or volunteer,” Smith explained. “I knew I could make a difference.”

That desire to create lasting impact led him to Community Opportunities.

“The research I completed on Community Opportunities was very positive,” Smith shared. “I wanted to be a part of a progressive organization and bring my skill set to Lincoln County.”

“We are excited to have Orlando join our team!” said Mary Sullivan Thomas, Executive Director of Community Opportunities. “We are looking forward to his leadership to help people obtain gainful employment in our community. He is an active advocate for people with developmental disabilities with years of experience in various settings.”

For Smith, helping individuals find meaningful employment isn’t just part of the job—it’s personal. “There are those who need someone to advocate for them,” he said. “Why not me?”

Smith finds the greatest reward in the success of those he serves.

“I enjoy seeing the satisfaction within individuals when they obtain employment and are able to independently sustain themselves. I don’t look for accolades from my employer. My accolades come from the self-fulfilling achievement the person I served obtained.”

As he steps into his new role, Smith encourages local businesses and community partners to continuously improve and evolve.

“Stay true to your craft. Build upon it. And once you master it, build upon it some more. Always look to improve your service delivery process.”

Guided by his personal motto—“No matter what happens today, tomorrow is a new day”—Smith brings a hopeful, determined perspective to the work ahead.

With Smith’s leadership, Community Opportunities looks forward to expanding employment opportunities and fostering a more inclusive workforce across Lincoln County.