Our Mission
Our mission is to find employment for justice-involved individuals through prison outreach, employer education, and business development services.
As a 501(c)(3) Non Profit, all donations and contributions are tax deductible.
Our VISION & VALUES
Vision:
Employers and justice-involved individuals are united in breaking the cycle of recidivism. All formerly incarcerated find quality and sustainable careers.
Values:
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Partnership: Collaborating with community partners to achieve our shared mission.
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Perseverance: Pursuing new opportunities even in the face of adversity.
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Integrity: Always doing what is ethically right.
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Inclusion: Including those who have historically been excluded and ensuring that all identity groups have the same rights, opportunities, and access regardless of their background or circumstance.
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Transparency: Sharing information openly and honestly, both internally and externally.
Our Success Stories
In just a few short years, Opportunity Oregon has helped hundreds of justice-involved people all over the state of Oregon. They come to us with anywhere from a few years to a few decades of incarceration, from all walks of life, and many different types of work experience and work history. The common denominator for all is that they want to start fresh and become productive members of society. Check out the link below for a few of their stories...
Our team
Nancy pance
Executive Director
After years of mistakes and addiction, Nancy ended up in prison. It was a transformative experience, fueled by work training and rehabilitative programs. She came out a changed person, but struggled to find work because of her criminal background. Through tenacity she found an employer willing to give her a chance, and making the most of the opportunity, she became one of the top 5 performers in a company of hundreds.
However, her dream was to own a business, so after earning her degree, she teamed up with her brother Joseph to run a fitness gym. Taking it from a struggling enterprise to one that thrives, she realized that her success could not have occurred without those willing to see past her biggest mistakes. Her goal and dream shifted to helping others in the way she was helped.
Nancy meets with employers to explain the value of hiring people like her, collaborates with the correctional department to select the most deserving candidates, and selects, prepares and matches ex-offenders to employers.
Aubrey Johnson
Deputy Director
Aubrey Johnson joined Opportunity Oregon as Deputy Director in December 2023. Prior to Opportunity Oregon, Aubrey has held key leadership roles in non-profit, fortune 500 publicly traded companies, real estate investment trusts (REIT), and private equity backed organizations. Her most recent role was Deputy Director for a non-profit organization, supporting agribusinesses in the 13 Western United States and 2 U.S Territories increase international growth by providing financial support, export readiness, and business development services.
The distinct value Aubrey brings to the organization is the ability to inspire and align cross functional teams to achieve strategic operating goals. She is a passionate servant leader who thrives in cultivating transformational growth in companies and in people. She has a history of meeting and exceeding key performance indicators to help organizations achieve rapid growth and operational excellence. She is grounded in personal core values of being honest, fair, and kind in all situations. Aubrey takes great pride in consistently performing at a high level, expanding her knowledge, and investing in others to support their growth and development. She holds a B.S. in Business Management and Leadership and a B.S. in Human Resource Management from Portland State University.
MICHELLE EHLERS, CRM & PWS
Set-Aside Clinic Lead
Michelle joined Opportunity Oregon in January 2025, where she leverages her personal journey, education and experience to empower others transitioning from incarceration to community life. After facing numerous challenges, including the loss of her brother at a young age, Michelle's path led her through struggles with addiction and ultimately to incarceration.
Determined to change her life, Michelle embraced her time at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, where she worked in the transition department for four years and became the first woman to earn a bachelor’s degree through the Higher Education Prison Program at Portland State University. Her certifications as a Recovery Mentor and Peer Wellness Specialist further highlight her commitment to supporting others.
As the Set Aside Clinic Lead with Opportunity Oregon, Michelle coordinates access to free assistance to eligible community members seeking to have Oregon criminal convictions set aside. Michelle also facilitates workshops and participates in career and resource fairs throughout the state, actively engaging in community outreach. Her relatable experiences and compassion make her a vital resource for clients seeking employment and stability after release. Michelle is passionate about resilience and dedicated to helping others find their paths to success.