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Empowering Youth To Succeed in education, employment, and life

START YOUR JOURNEY HERE

The OPP path to success is through Personal Development, Academic Achievement, and Workforce Readiness.

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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Youth are paired with a Youth Development Specialist (YDS). Together, they identify their goals and create an individualized success plan.

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Academic Achievement

Offering students support in their educational journey through student-centered, project-based learning and post-secondary opportunities. 

personal-development

Workforce Readiness

Youth learn how to get and keep a job through service-learning projects, internships, and job placement.

SUPPORT OPP

Help us continue our mission of empowering youth to succeed

OPP serves over 1,000 young people in the Greater Hartford, CT area giving them the opportunity to discover the great futures they deserve!

Make a life changing gift today!

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Over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot at OPP. I learned the value of time and how to be punctual. I’ve learned a lot about myself and that I’m a hands on learner. Doing lawn care and snow removal with the Youth Service Corps, I learned how to use a snow blower and how to operate different equipment. Now, because I learned that skill, I help out at home. It’s given me confidence. I know that I am reliable and hardworking. I take pride in my job and honestly, it’s fun. I love working with OPP. I tell all of my friends about OPP. It’s the best place to be!

Najay

OPP ON INSTAGRAM

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Sep 16

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Meet Chris Lenox, Vice President and Executive Creative Director at Travelers and a creative force helping brands tell meaningful stories. With a career spanning advertising, public relations, digital marketing, and design, Chris specializes in creating innovative campaigns that connect with audiences and inspire action. At Travelers, he helps bring the company's brand promise of care to life through a focus on putting people first, thinking long-term, embracing collaboration, and championing the success of others. Chris has brought his creative expertise to some of the world's most recognized brands, including Cetaphil, Fisher-Price, AZEK Building Products, Xerox, Dell, Merck, Pfizer, Atari, Toshiba, Zappos, Goldman Sachs, and Travelers. At OPP, Chris has generously supported the organization through his creative leadership, helping develop logo treatments and event marketing materials that strengthen our brand and elevate our message. His talent for connecting people to purpose helps amplify OPP's mission and impact throughout the community. We're grateful for Chris's creativity, partnership, and commitment to helping young people build brighter futures. #BoardSpotlight #OurPieceOfThePie #OPP #Leadership #CreativeLeadership

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Sep 11

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There is a moment in every young person's journey when they begin to see themselves differently. Maybe it's the first time they share an idea and realize others are listening. Maybe it's speaking in front of a group, advocating for something they believe in, or having the confidence to step into a leadership role they once would have avoided. Finding your voice isn't just about speaking louder. It's about believing that your perspective matters. It's about recognizing that you have something to contribute, that your experiences have value, and that your ideas can help shape the world around you. Over the past 10 years, HYSC has provided opportunities for young people to lead projects, engage in their communities, collaborate with peers, and take on new challenges. Along the way, many discovered something that would stay with them long after the experience ended: The confidence to speak up, step forward, and be heard. Because when young people find their voice, they don't just change their own future. They help shape the future of their communities. #HYSC10Years #10YearsOfImpact #YouthLeadership #HartfordCT #CommunityBuiltTogether

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Sep 9

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Meet Alex Bellino, OPP's Board Secretary and a dedicated advocate for creating opportunities that help young people thrive. As a Vice President and Counsel at Travelers, Alex brings more than 25 years of experience spanning international surety, specialty insurance, and Latin American business development. His extensive leadership and governance background, including board service with organizations in Brazil, Colombia, and the International School of Curitiba, provides valuable perspective and expertise to OPP's Board of Directors. Alex serves as Board Secretary and is a member of the Audit and Governance Committees, helping ensure strong oversight and organizational stewardship. He is proud to support OPP's mission of helping Greater Hartford's young people achieve success in education, employment, and beyond. Alex holds a J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law and a B.A. from the University of California, Irvine, and brings a thoughtful, global perspective to his service and leadership. And when it comes to pie? 🥧 Alex says it’s hard to choose, but his “Deserted Island” choice is probably Banana Cream! #BoardSpotlight #OurPieceOfThePie #OPP #Leadership #BoardOfDirectors

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Sep 7

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This Labor Day, we honor the value of meaningful work and the opportunities that help individuals build skills, confidence, and brighter futures. We're proud to support young people on their journeys toward career success. PLEASE NOTE: Our office will be closed the week of 9/7💼✨ #LaborDay #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureReady

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Sep 2

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Meet William Morin, a dedicated technology professional, community advocate, and champion for creating opportunities for young people in Hartford. With more than three decades of experience at Hartford HealthCare, William has built a career rooted in innovation, service, and leadership. Throughout his career, he has developed programs that improve patient experiences, led technology initiatives, and mentored both colleagues and community members. His passion for using technology to connect and empower people extends far beyond the workplace. William's commitment to the community is evident through years of volunteer service and nonprofit leadership. From serving on the board of Organized Parents Make a Difference (OPMAD) to helping build technology programs with local organizations, he has consistently worked to expand access and opportunity. More recently, he helped launch the Digital Dividend Initiative, a partnership supporting youth through technology exposure, skills development, and career pathways. As a member of the OPP Board, William brings a unique blend of technology expertise, nonprofit leadership, and a deep belief in the potential of Hartford’s young people. His dedication to mentorship and community impact reflects OPP’s mission of helping youth build confidence, purpose, and long-term opportunity. And when it comes to pie? 🥧 William will happily take a slice of whatever you're having. #BoardSpotlight #OurPieceOfThePie #OPP #Leadership #YouthDevelopment

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Aug 28

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We often become what we can see. When young people witness others leading, serving, and making a difference in their communities, they begin to imagine new possibilities for themselves. For the past 10 years, HYSC participants have shown that leadership isn't about age, title, or experience. It's about showing up, giving back, and creating opportunities for others to follow. One young person inspires another. Then another. And another. That's how a community is built together. #HYSC10Years #BuildingPathwaysForward #OPP #YouthDevelopment #CommunityImpact

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Aug 26

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We're excited to spotlight Amy Rodriguez, a dedicated leader, proud Hartford native, and passionate advocate for creating opportunities that strengthen our communities. As a Grants Officer at Goodwin University, Amy develops and manages funding opportunities that support education, student success, and workforce development initiatives. She brings a diverse professional background spanning higher education, nonprofit fundraising, behavioral health, career coaching, and student support services, along with a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve their goals. Amy holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Justice & Law Administration from Western Connecticut State University and a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Goodwin University. Her holistic approach and passion for serving youth and vulnerable populations make her a valued member of the OPP Board and a strong champion for our mission. When she's not working or volunteering, Amy enjoys spending time with family, caring for her beloved fur babies, reading, hiking, and picking seasonal fruit. And her favorite dessert? 🥧 Apple pie! #BoardSpotlight #OurPieceOfThePie #OPP #Leadership

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Name

Kimberly williams-rivera

Senior Director of Management Information Systems & Performance

ext. 7348

Kimberly Williams-Rivera is a quality assurance professional with over 30 years of experience working for nonprofits in the Greater Hartford area. She is passionate about helping organizations build strong data infrastructures and develop high performance qualities to improve the impact of their work. Kimberly joined OPP 18 years ago as their Director of Quality Assurance and was responsible for implementing its centralized case management system, which today has grown into a data architecture housing many other systems with interoperability.  

Currently in the role of Senior Director, Management Information Systems and Org Performance she supervises a Data Analyst, Performance Management Specialist, and oversees the IT vendor services and management of all external evaluation processes. 

A sociologist at heart, Kimberly has a bachelor’s degree from University of Connecticut and has continued her personal development in research, evaluation, theory, and technology through trainings at Brandeis University. She also attained a gold level System Administration Certificate with Social Solutions, ETO where she was the recipient of their UNITE Award in 2016. Kimberly has served as a member of the Governor’s Cabinet on Nonprofit Health and Human Services – Data/Technology Subcommittee under Dannel Molloy’s administration in the State of Connecticut. 

Girard Dawes

Senior Director of Youth Development

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A life-long resident of Hartford, Girard has committed over 20 years of his career to supporting youth through his work at Our Piece of the Pie (OPP).

Girard started his social services career at Head Start, where he discovered his passion for assisting youth to achieve their goals. In 2000, he joined OPP as a Youth Development Specialist. Since then, Girard has been a guiding force for staff and youth as he has served in numerous leadership roles. He has been key to expanding OPP’s reach in the community. As the Senior Director of Youth Engagement, Girard directs our youth recruitment efforts and oversees our alternative high school program, OPPortunity Academy.

Girard’s commitment to serving the Hartford community is an inspiration to the staff and youth he mentors. He earned a degree in criminal justice from Manchester Community College and a degree in human services from Springfield College.

Brittany Petrucci

Senior Director of Development 

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Brittany Petrucci joined Our Piece of the Pie (OPP) as Director of Development in March 2026. She is a nonprofit leader with a strong track record in fundraising, strategic growth, and building programs that expand access to opportunity for young people and communities.

Brittany brings extensive experience leading multi-department initiatives, managing complex budgets, and strengthening organizational infrastructure to drive measurable impact. Throughout her career, she has worked at the intersection of youth development, community safety, and systems change, supporting individuals and families navigating barriers related to violence, instability, and inequity. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed, equity-centered practices and informed by research on long-term outcomes related to youth adversity.

In her role at OPP, Brittany leads the organization’s development strategy, advancing efforts to increase philanthropic support, deepen donor and community engagement, and elevate OPP’s visibility. She is passionate about building meaningful partnerships that mobilize resources, close opportunity gaps, and ensure young people have the support and pathways needed to thrive.

Brittany earned her Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Central Connecticut State University and her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology from the University of New Haven, along with a minor in Psychology and a Certificate in Victim Services Administration.

Patricia Moro

Chief Financial Officer
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Patricia Moro is the Chief Financial Officer of Our Piece of the Pie®, Inc. (OPP).  Before joining the team at OPP in May of 2021, Pat was the VP of Finance for Fair Haven Community Health Clinic (a federally qualified health center) in New Haven, CT.  She began at Fair Haven after serving as the CFO of Community Health Center of CT, the primary care organization for the CT federally qualified health centers located in Wethersfield, CT.  For many years prior, Pat was the president and CEO of various CT long term care nursing homes.

As the Chief Financial Officer of OPP, her responsibilities include oversight for the fiscal aspects of the organization and day to day management and direct supervision of fiscal department.  Pat brings decades of fiscal and management experience to OPP and is dedicated to the support the advancement of our youth.

Pat holds an Associates of Science in Business Administration from Middlesex Community College as well as a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration from Albertus Magnus College.

Chanda Robinson

Chief Operating Officer

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Hailing from Hartford, Chanda has dedicated over 20 years of her career to serving her community through her work at Our Piece of the Pie (OPP). Starting as a workforce development specialist, Chanda’s commitment and drive propelled her into increasingly progressive roles within OPP. Throughout her tenure, she has gained invaluable expertise in program operations, specifically in youth and workforce development. With her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, Chanda has played a pivotal role in creating and implementing effective programs that support the growth and development of youth and staff alike.
Chanda’s dedication to organizational capacity building has been instrumental in propelling OPP’s success. Her strategic thinking, resourcefulness, and strong leadership skills have contributed to fostering a dynamic and impactful work environment. Learning and personal development is a priority for Chanda, and she holds a bachelor’s degree in human services.

Hector Rivera

President & Chief Executive Officer
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Hector has more than 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and as a life resident of the Hartford community provides a wealth of experience including Youth Development, Workforce Readiness, Educational Excellence, leadership, training, and organizational development. Hector has been with Our Piece of the Pie® (OPP) for over 20 years. Hector was initially hired as a Youth Development Specialist (case manager) but his drive and passion quickly propelled him into multiple leadership roles. Professionally, Hector proves time and again his flexibility in responding to changing conditions wearing many hats in the efforts to meet and exceed the needs of young people. 

He has earned a bachelor degree in Human Services from Springfield College and Master degrees in both Management and Business Administration both from Albertus Magnus College. Hector has spent his entire professional life as an advocate for young people. Hector’s personal and professional goals are all based on helping others (particularly young adults) achieve their dreams and aspirations in order to become successful and contributing citizens.