The board of directors announced that OPAF and the First Clinics will be dissolving as of July 31. OPAF has been known for its philanthropy in the O&P community for the past 25 years.
The board of directors said that OPAF, like many nonprofit organizations, had only a couple of months of reserve funds available, and the financial effects of the COVID-19 were too severe. OPAF was dependent on revenue generated from First Clinics to maintain operations, and that the personal contact required for First Clinics will likely not be possible in the foreseeable future.
“We have been fortunate to operate under the superb leadership of Robin Burton for the past 15 years,” the announcement read. “Her efforts to keep the organization relevant and vibrant have been exceptional.
“Over the years, OPAF has consistently been progressive in order to keep pace with evolving times and changing needs amongst those we serve. We remained hopeful that continued innovation would allow us to continue providing life-changing opportunities to people throughout the country. However, the effects of COVID-19 on the economy has hit all businesses hard, which has had a devastating effect on OPAF. Therefore, we feel that we have no alternative other than closing.
“We look back at our many years of operation with pride for what we’ve accomplished. We know that we could not have done it without you. Our clinics have had a positive impact upon thousands of lives. Thank you for all you’ve done to help support OPAF. We hope that the legacy we created of hope and empowerment will continue to impact lives.”
