As you read through these pages, we hope you will find inspiration not just in the volunteers, but in the projects they and the churches they serve are doing. As a connectional body, we are urged to grow our ministries and those of others around us.
Say So: OKUMC Spirit in Action, (USPS 954-500) is published quarterly by The Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church, 1501 NW 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to “Say So OKUMC Spirit in Action”, 1501 NW 24th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73106.
The Value of a Few Volunteers
Volunteers do so much for organizations. In addition to the tangible impact they make with their work - building wheelchair ramps, baking bread, stuffing backpacks with weekend snacks - volunteers offer intangible benefits, too.
Volunteers build and cultivate relationships among peers and across cultural and socioeconomic divides. They improve their overall health. They improve their communities, instilling pride in all involved.
Volunteers in Organizations
As you’ll read among these pages, volunteers serve in a variety of ways. They work with children, youth, and every subsection of adults. They build, they sew, they cook, they sort, they stack, they read, they carve. They’re like that proverbial multi-function kitchen tool - the one that slices and dices - in human form.
The benefits they bring to an organization are myriad. Volunteers are brand ambassadors, offering first-hand understanding of an organization’s services. In churches, this is evidenced by all the car decals and t-shirts seen across the state.
Volunteers bring their expertise to a church that it could not otherwise afford. Consider the CPA who donates her services or the teacher who tutors children at an after-school program. An attorney writes up legal documents and a chef prepares community meals.
Volunteers get their companies involved, too. They bring financial support along with the support of employees and coworkers.
Volunteers in Community
When a volunteer contributes an hour to your church, she or he is contributing that time to the entire community. Whether the work is “boots on the ground,” like in a ministry to the unhoused, or whether it’s the quiet, behind-the-scenes task of making copies, that volunteer is serving the community as a whole.
Whatever good a church does in its community, each and every volunteer is in some way
responsible. When a campus ministry feeds lunch to 100 people, volunteers do much of the work. The ones who are fed see the volunteers as the face of the organization.
Paid staff are vital to an organization. They bring continuity and leadership. But when a volunteer offers services, the recipient perceives that the care is not out of obligation, but out of love.
Volunteers in Relationships
Multiple motivations cause people to volunteer. A desire to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus is among the many. Evangelism is one of the many positive relational impacts of volunteerism.
Additionally, volunteers build relationships with staff and with other volunteers. Some volunteers may be retired or disconnected. Others have limited outlets for making friends. Still others have a desire to expand their already-large communities.
Volunteers are great at cultivating relationships with those being served by organizations. They are often in a unique position to build oneon-one relationships with individuals receiving services.
Volunteers in Identity
People who volunteer benefit as much as those for whom services are designed. Among the many benefits of volunteering are positive health benefits like lower blood pressure or an extended lifespan.
Depression and anxiety are often a result of loneliness. Volunteering combats that loneliness and brings improved mental health.
Additionally, volunteers can build skills and gain experience that may help with their chosen profession. It improves confidence, as they realize the difference they make in the lives of others.
Introducing our
Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations BOB AZBILL
Nominated by: Rev. Shannon Rodenberg
“I frequently joke that Bob practically lives at Oologah UMC. He is there almost every day. On Sundays, he makes sure the HVAC is on, spreads ice melt, and greets those coming to church.
Multiple times a week, he checks the freezers for the food pantry to make sure everything is still at the correct temperature. He’s there to open the food pantry bright and early every Monday morning and works the pantry the rest of the day, loading and unloading and moving food around to help our neighbors in need. He works tirelessly when the mobile food pantry comes to organize the food and get it into each vehicle.
When our former Backpack Food for Kids coordinator passed away due to covid, Bob immediately stepped in to take over the program for all of Oologah. He picks up and delivers food to the school each week and organizes volunteers to help pack the food.
Bob also is the man who moves the chairs at the church. He makes sure each space is ready for worship, service projects, and Wednesday night activities. He is the first call when something isn’t working right, and he’s always able to find a way to fix it.
In the community, he volunteers for every town parade to provide organization. He’s served on the Fire Board, the Chamber of Commerce, Oologah Senior Citizens Club, and in so many more.
Bob gives of his time and his heart in everything he does. Our kids and youth love to see Bob, and their favorite thing is running up to him to say, “Hi, Bob!” as loud as they can. He is a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Anyone who has worked with him knows how special he is and what a huge servant heart he has for serving Jesus in practical ways that make a difference in the world.”
Anecdote:
Last Christmas, Jack Major played Bob in the Christmas play, and throughout the play, he moved tables and chairs and ladders, and all the characters would stop what they were doing and yell, “Hi, Bob!” After that, everyone yells, “Hi, Bob!” whenever they see him.
On Holy Humor Sunday, the choir made a Bob cutout and debuted it during the anthem, which was set to the tune of “the Limbo,” because he always hums it when he’s working. The cutout had on a “Do you even mow, bro?” shirt, since he is always mowing or finding people to mow the church property.
After that, any time a band member can’t make it to worship, “Flat Bob” fills in. The youth took “Mini Flat Bob” to church camp this summer and had a blast taking pictures with him.
We love our Bob!
When we found out Bob won, we asked for more information about him from others at the church. They did not disappoint!
“Bob is hardworking. He’s always doing something for the church. He’s always wanting to talk with me, asking how I’m doing, asking how the family is.”
- Jack Major, youth
“Bob is a go-to person. Any time that you need anything done for the community or the church, Bob is the person everyone relies on, goes to, and knows that it would get done. He’s always been willing to help anybody, and is the first one to say, ‘What can I do to help you?’”
- Carolyn Estes, town board member
“When Bob finds out he’s won this, he is going to hate it, because he never wants to draw attention to himself. While I was collecting quotes and pictures, I had to stop three or four times, because he kept coming into the office to check on things or doing things for the church. He is the epitome of what it means to be a disciple. He serves Jesus every single day in big ways and small ways. I like to joke that his love language is moving chairs, but really, he is my first call any time I need information or if something has gone wrong. He is steadfast in his faith and has been a role model to our children and youth of what it means to serve God and love your church and church family. Every church needs a Bob, and I am glad this one is ours!”
- Shannon Rodenberg, pastor
shout-outs to Bob from friends
“Bob is such an asset to the church and the community as a whole. He is at the church daily to take care of the big jobs as well as the little ones. With regard to the community, he is devoted to making sure as many students as possible at Oologah/Talala schools participate in the backpack program. To quote Bob, ‘One hungry child is too many.’ In addition, he has taken on the responsibility of securing people and organizations to raise money through the Bell Ringer program during the holidays. Bob is a joy to work with and is always ready to serve others. He gives of his time and talents readily and never hesitates to serve. I have such respect for Bob and love working with him on any project.”
- Kathy Ouverson, Church member & school employee
“He is a very awesome person. He’s extremely a credit to our church and it’s a benefit if you are fortunate enough to know him.”
- Don Draper, church member
“He’s the best in the whole church.”
- NiKayla Vick, church kiddo
“He is one of the most reliable people I know.”
- Gina Tyler, church member
“We carried Bob’s face around church camp. He’s amazing. Duh.”
youth
“Bob is dependable, he’s knowledgeable, conscientious, and I just enjoy working with him.”
Bob is so beloved around Oolagah UMC, he’s become somewhat of a phenomenon all his own! From ‘Flat Bob,’ who is taken to camp and who stands in on stage with the choir and praise band, to his hard work in the mobile food pantry and Operation Thanksgiving, Bob does it all. He’s even a costume! Jack Major “played” Bob in the Christmas play. Submitted photos.
Honorable Mentions
It was so hard to choose one Volunteer of the Year. Every one of these nominees is a winner!
VOLUNTEER : Trever Dye NOMINATED BY : Alex Costea
Trever Dye exemplifies exceptional dedication and versatility through his extensive volunteer work at Sayre United Methodist Church.
His contributions span a wide range of essential activities, from maintaining a clean and welcoming church environment to managing audio and video systems with professionalism and precision.
Trever’s commitment extends to organizing and supporting Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs during the summer at both Sayre and Cheyenne UMC, where he plays a critical role in ensuring these events are engaging and well-coordinated.
Trever Dye exemplifies exceptional dedication and multifaceted contributions to our church.
Trever’s commitment is evident through his meticulous cleaning efforts, ensuring that the church environment remains pristine and welcoming for all. His technical skills are equally impressive, as he skillfully manages the audio and video systems, ensuring that every service is executed flawlessly.
Beyond his technical expertise, Trever consistently demonstrates a proactive approach, willingly stepping in to address various needs
and challenges within the church. His reliability, positive attitude, and strong work ethic make him an indispensable part of our community. Trever’s contributions enhance the overall experience for both staff and congregation, and his unwavering support and enthusiasm truly set him apart as a deserving candidate for this recognition.
His dedication have also earned him a nomination as the 2024-2025 Youth Representative at Sayre United Methodist Church, reflecting his leadership potential and strong connection with our congregation.
Trever’s comprehensive involvement and steadfast commitment demonstrate his value as a volunteer.
VOLUNTEERS : Alpha Pi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc. & The Beta Epsilon Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma NOMINATED
BY : Ja’lyn Betts
These young African American men, who are university students, have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service at the Langston University Wesley Foundation. Their dedication to bringing light to the world, as we are called to do as Christians, is evident in every volunteer effort they lead. Whether it’s organizing the free lunch program, coordinating cleanup efforts, supporting the Back to School Bash, or dedicating hours to “Midnight Munchies” fundraisers, they are committed to uplifting their fellow students and the broader community. Not only do they bring immense pride to Langston University, but they also embody the principles of faith, service, and leadership within the body of Christ. Their efforts are a true reflection of their commitment to being a light in the world.
The Alpha Pi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc. and the Beta Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Sigma have both contributed significantly to the volunteer
efforts at the Wesley Foundation. The Alpha Pi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi has taken a leadership role in organizing the free lunch program, providing meals and fostering fellowship among students. They have also coordinated a clean-up day to maintain a welcoming environment at the Foundation and volunteered numerous hours for continuous fundraisers, including “Midnight Munchies,” which helps support the Foundation’s mission. Meanwhile, the Beta Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Sigma has played a crucial role in organizing the Back to School Bash, serving 144 students with essential supplies and support. They have also actively participated in clean-up efforts at the Foundation, contributed to the free lunch program, and volunteered during “Midnight Munchies” fundraisers. Both chapters have shown exemplary dedication to service, significantly enriching the Wesley Foundation and the student community at Langston University.
VOLUNTEER : Rebecca Kingsbery
NOMINATED BY : Rev. Sharon Kay Cochran
As kitchen coordinator at Tishomingo UMC, Rebecca hosts and provides food for church birthdays every month, and groups from Murray State College, as well as coordinating our shared meals, potluck events, funeral dinners, et.al. At 90 years young, she out-works most of us. We learn from her ministry.
VOLUNTEER : Ron McMillan NOMINATED BY : Rev. Jinx Barber
Ron McMillan exemplifies a servant’s heart. Shortly after I came here, I saw a need to rebuild and strengthen our community. I approached Ron about restarting Wednesday evening meals. He agreed to shopping, chopping, prepping, cooking and cleaning every week as we restarted this ministry from before Covid, and rebuilt our church after the split. During this time he has assembled an amazing team of people who assist each week.
Rib nights always draw the biggest crowd, but Ron says his greatest joy is watching the people fellowship after the meal; and to be honest, that fellowship may have saved our church by providing a sense of community for the people in Piedmont.
He also cooks for all our events and makes sure dietary restrictions are observed; he regularly supplies Piedmont teachers, veterans, firefighters, paramedics and police with cinnamon rolls from the church.
He both preps for and competes in (often winning) the Piedmont Chili-cook-off, hosted by our church. His bread-making classes are always
a hit, he weeds our flowerbeds, and he even plays Santa around Christmas.
All this and HE THANKS US for letting him come and serve.
VOLUNTEERS : United Methodist Women
NOMINATED BY : Rev. Angela Fleming
I have only been with this church (Geary UMC) for a few months, yet I am impressed with the quality of their commitment to serve. They run the Angel’s Attic - a thrift store - which provides quality, used items that are affordable to this community. They also do the Operation Shoe Box drive for children internationally located to receive a box of love. They work well with the youth group, providing support when they engage in projects for the church. Kaye Base and Sandy Kerns stand out to me because they are “Johnny on the spot” kind of ladies who care about this church and its outreach to others. I am honored to pastor a church that cares about others as this group of women do.
VOLUNTEER : Marti Duggan (and team)
NOMINATED BY : Rev. Levi Duggan
This group at Ceili Community involves people who pick up food from Crest 3 mornings per week, receive and weigh over 5,000 pounds of food per month, keep the store clean and stocked, and serve over 400 people per month with open choice grocery style shopping for their food needs. We book over 40 hours per week of volunteer time to make the store run. Marti herself actually runs the store, booking clients all week, recruiting and training and scheduling volunteers, maintaining compliance with the Regional Food Bank, all pro bono.
Marti puts in over 40 hours per week of volunteer time in addition to her full time job helping our church serve families. This includes our children’s ministry, store, and hospitality over the last year. Without her, these programs would not exist in this new church plant.
VOLUNTEER : Rosanna Kiser
NOMINATED BY : Diandra Nelson
Rosanna has a hand in everything at New Hope UMC! Everything at New hope is growing, including our outreach! Rosanna runs the blessing box at our church, keeping it stocked with thoughtful items, always ensuring that you can make a whole nutritious meal! Our blessing box is cleaned out every 12 hours by people in our community so it is a full time job!
She’s also volunteered answering phones, working at the front desk and honestly doing anything she can to support the work and life of the church! We are all so, so thankful for her.
VOLUNTEER
:
Debi
Smith NOMINATED BY : Meagan
Debi teaches 4th and 5th graders every Sunday morning at Acts 2 UMC.
Debi is an amazing volunteer for a lot of reasons. I can count on her to be here every Sunday. She arrives early to prepare for the lesson. The children know who will be in their classroom when they arrive, and look forward to seeing her. She makes an effort to learn every child’s name and something about them.
Debi has an amazing heart, loves Jesus, and cares so deeply that the kids in our church know Jesus as well. Volunteers are another adult for kids to have in their corner, and I am so happy that my child, as well as the kids in our church, get to have an adult like her in their lives!
Durham
VOLUNTEER : Charlotte Langley NOMINATED
BY
: Rev. Emily Robnett
Charlotte is a member of our board, but she does so much more than show up to meetings. She has cleaned and organized our kitchen, top to bottom, labeling every cabinet and creating sustainable systems that any volunteer can follow to keep the space clean and ready to utilize. She has shampooed our carpets and cleaned every couch. She has shopped for a cook top and even had it installed for us.
She has taken a space that was unkempt and turned it into a warm, inviting, and organized place where students can feel at home. She always goes above and beyond the call of duty - no one even has to ask for her help (though she is always willing to!). If she sees something that needs to be done, she does it.
She has done so much to help me in my transition into this job, but I know it really isn’t for me. She is passionate about college ministry and wants to make this Wesley Foundation a place where
students can grow in faith and love of Jesus.
She is THE BEST.
VOLUNTEER : Angela Rodgers NOMINATED BY : Alanna Ireland
Angela serves on the board (and is currently the chair), runs the food pantry, volunteers in the drop-in center, and handles extra administrative tasks to relieve the burden on our staff at Lazarus Community.
Angela does everything with compassion. She is great at communicating with staff, volunteers, professionals, and those experiencing homelessness. She is always thinking of new ways to better serve our unhoused congregants and help to ease their burdens just a little more. On top of this, she often offers to help staff with administrative tasks and runs our neighborhood food pantry, which includes a food choice pantry, a feeding ministry, and food packs for those living on the streets of Oklahoma City. She exemplifies the heart of Christ in everything she does.
VOLUNTEER : Clarence Kelly NOMINATED BY : Ginger Strong
Clarence does it all at FUMC Yukon. He is our first person in the building each Sunday, He is our first call when we have a little something special that needs done. He is our all around go-to guy. He takes care of everything, mostly without anyone asking for him to do so.
He is a treasure. He stops by the office every few days - if not daily - to check in and see if the office staff needs anything done (moving packages to correct areas, setting up tables and chairs for special events, bringing in packages left at the doors, changing light bulbs, helping leaders of large events set up and break down, running extension cords where needed for special events, setting up extra seating for special events, delivering outgoing mail, picking up packages from different companies for us, helping fold bulletins, helping fill pew cards and prepare them when needed, delivering bulletins to the narthex when they are ready for Sundays, and all things office-related that needs any type of help - he’s the one). He responds to our alarm company if alarms go off, and will come up at any hour to check things out. He walks the grounds to make sure all things are safe. He make sure all doors are
locked every Sunday after service. Additionally, he’s the first one here to open the doors and start the coffee on Sundays. He picks up donuts on his way to church on Sunday. He checks on all things everywhere without prompting. He is our funeral go-to guy. If there will be a funeral, he makes sure all pews have tissues, and that the doors are open for funeral directors for casket entry and flower entry. He stays to the end and makes sure all areas are locked up. He is the one you can ALWAYS COUNT ON for anything. The one you TRUST. The one you LOVE.
VOLUNTEER : Maria Boyles
NOMINATED BY : Daniel Hubbard
Maria is the director of neighborhood ministries and the food bank at Perkins First UMC.
She leads a band of volunteers who distribute food and emergency support to over 125 families every two weeks with support from the Oklahoma City Regional Food Bank and Our Daily Bread in Stillwater. She is on call 24/7.
VOLUNTEERS : Leona Alexander and Watonga FUMC United Women in Faith
NOMINATED BY : Dianna
Leona facilitated United Methodist Women and United Women of Faith for over 35 years. Leona moved to Owasso, OK to be closer to her son. Leona is a great communicator and coordinator. One of the reasons I want to nominate the Watonga FUMC UWF is this group coordinates and serves at nearly every event at the church. There is a weekly rotation to provide brunch each Sunday. They plan and serve at funeral dinners. This group provides breakfast every August to the new teachers in the Watonga Public School System. They prepare an annual Easter egg hunt and brunch for Easter Sunday. Also, included are Mother’s and Father’s Day brunch, Graduation Sunday brunch and celebration,
Matli
handing out 900 water bottles at the Ministerial Alliance Trunk or Treat. I am sure there are many more positive things I can say about them. As their pastor I truly do not know how we would function as a church without each one of them.
VOLUNTEER : Sarah Herring NOMINATED BY : Pastor Janet Fitz
Sarah is a worker within Mutual United UMC. She has coffee ready for meetings and Sunday morning service, she serves with and open heart to her brothers and sisters in Christ. Sarah makes sure bills are taken to payee and then mailed where they need to be. She loves people and always is doing and setting up gift boxes for the college students . Sarah has undergone cancer treatments and three surgeries in the last year and she hardly missed a Sunday. Her goal in life is to read her bible and tell others about her relationship with God and how he has healed her. We are a tiny church but this lady loves her church and community so much that she will stand for hours and bake bierocks and cinnamon rolls to sell to keep the doors open on this church. There is so many things Sarah does that not even me as her minister knows she does for others. Prayer warrior she is , she prays for everyone and she doesn’t mind calling people and saying, “Lets get the prayers going.” She is instrumental in the running of MUMC.
VOLUNTEER : Sara Palmer
NOMINATED BY : Royce Caldron
Sara plays her guitar in leading us in a couple of opening songs each week in our morning worship service and also records a video that is part of an email that is sent to numerous people that are current or former members or just interested people. Those videos are available on Youtube.
When a long time member of Ponca City Albright UMC passed away in 2017, Sara stepped up. This former member had shared his musical talents and banjo skills by leading the Open Door class in song each week. He also led us in Christmas caroling. Sara felt the call to try to provide that same music so we could continue. She got his
notebook from his family, made copies, learned the chords and began accompanying the Open Door class each week. She would share the music with us then go to her own SS class.
When COVID shut things down and we were not having in person services, she came up with the idea of recording some music each week and that recording was sent out via email. It was a blessing to so many people and it helped our class and our church to stay connected during a difficult time.
When we resumed in person worship, she added on playing during the morning worship service each week. She is now completing seven years of faithfully doing this. As the person that sends out the emails each week, I am very much aware of how much this means to those who can no longer attend or happen to be away on a particular Sunday. Some have told me how they sing along with those that are there in person. Numerous people have contacted Sara directly to thank her for providing this music.
I could say more but I will end with this disclosure: I just happen to be Sara’s dad and leader of the Open Door SS class at Albright.
VOLUNTEERS : Deans & Speakers of
Local Pastor Licensing School 2024
NOMINATED BY : Charles Lawrence
This group is tasked with providing 80 contact hours with prospective Local Pastors over the course of 9-10 days. Not an easy task.
This group volunteered a lot of time and effort to work with and welcome prospective Local Pastors to an extremely challenging profession, and they had to do it without running any of
them off. I was fortunate enough to be a student this year at LPLS 2024, and the experience and knowledge they were able to pass on in such a short amount of time is incredible.
VOLUNTEER : Emily Hill
NOMINATED BY : Pastor Janet Fitz
Miss Emily works as a teacher assistant at school but makes sure she has time to give to her church. She is our youth director for two different age groups of kids. First she has young kids from 6-10 and then she works with junior high / high school kids. She loves to have fun activities once a month for the kids and makes sure no child goes away hungry. Saturday she goes to church and prepares video monitors and sound for next morning service. On Sunday mornings she arrives 30 minutes before anyone else and has the electronic devices ready to go for service. Miss Emily has a heart of love, compassion and serving in her church. She holds different offices within the church council . Emily is very active in the women’s program to help serve her church and community. When she is not busy at church you will find her at her youths’ games and cheering them on. We of the Vici UMC have gone under a lot of criticisms in the last two years about disaffiliations but not once did Emily let anyone’s remarks bring her down or the care she gave her youth. She stands proud to be a UM and a servant of God. Emily is a follower of God and pushes herself to be better everyday in learning and teaching the word to others.
VOLUNTEERS : McFarlin United Methodist Men NOMINATED BY : Elizabeth Horton-Ware
Each spring the UMM comes and cares for our gardens and landscape around The Wesley. This year they also helped repair and make over our janitor’s closet. In addition to all they do for The Wesley, they help with a variety of volunteer roles at McFarlin, and help build at least one, sometimes 2 Habitat for Humanity houses each year. They also work to be exceptionally generous. The individuals and leaders are a great gift in our community and in our UMC ministries.
Each of the men are exceptional in his own roles in the church and community, and when they come together as an organization, they truly help The Kingdom of God break in.
VOLUNTEERS : Susan and Roland McWhorter
NOMINATED BY : Rev. James Graham
Everything! They make popcorn for the children each week, they help out in the office every week, stuffing envelopes, preparing busy bags for the children, they are greeters at our doors, they answer the phones, they go shopping for us, they go to the post office, they assist with the homeless, they sweep floors and empty trash, they do anything you ask, and never ask for anything in return! They are generous givers in their prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness! They are a vital and essential part of our body of Christ!
Because they are such humble and selfless people. I quite literally would need a dozen different volunteers to replace all that they do!
VOLUNTEER : Virginia Ham NOMINATED BY : Pastor Janet Fitz
Virginia is a lady at Sharon UMC who is willing to rise to any occasion to serve her Lord and Savior. Virginia is the church pianist which plays every Sunday service and any special services. She is the women’s treasurer and works for the women to help with all church activities and community activities. The women make homemade noodles every year for the holidays and you will find Virginia mixing the dough and then helping cut and packaging the dried noodles. She is one that does not want to give up this tradition of the church. She will make it happen. Virginia
attends meetings for Administrative Council and takes the minutes. She has held every office there is and volunteered for every thing that comes up for our church.
Virginia has attended SUMC for over 40 years and when you ask her are you ready to retire from church offices and the piano, her answer is, “I am a servant and I will do the Lords work until I meet him in heaven.” It’s not the great big elaborate things a person does for their Lord , its all the love, commitment and serving one gives to show others that you are a Christian and you stand proud to be his follower and worker. Do we know how many people Virginia has touched with her gifts God has given her? No but kids that are grown now can tell you about the Sunday school teacher, the youth director, the mother of the church, the piano player that has not ever run out of fuel for Christ. Not every 78 year old woman can still work in her church like Virginia Ham.
VOLUNTEERS : Backpacks for Kids NOMINATED
BY : Cindy Brown
Our Backpacks for Kids program provides sacks with two breakfast items, two entree items, two fruit items and three snack items. It is a weekend sack of food for students with food insecurities. Our church has provided and supported this mission for 18 years. We have four very devoted ladies that sack the food each week, shop at Sam’s, order from the OK Food Bank and pick up the Food Bank order (delivered at another location) and bring it to the church. Other volunteers help them pick up the Food Bank delivery. They spend two to six hours a week working on this project. Some of these ladies have done this for 12 years. These special ladies are Mary Seward, Margie Wagner, Elaine Huston and Mary Ellen Maxson. Each year we have been serving 95 to 145 sacks to 4th, 5th and 6th graders. Miami has a normal enrollment for
these three grades of 440 students. So we are feeding 21-33 percent of the students in those grade levels in Miami. They are all low income and recommended by the school. Many of the kids, up to half, have Indian documentation.
A food sack averages $6-7 each. A month averages about $6,000 plus. We also have male volunteers from the church that deliver the sacks each week from the church to the school. Another volunteer schedules the men that deliver the sacks and helps with fund raising. It would not be possible to provide the food without the volunteers and donations from our church. The mission is completely funded by monetary donations, from church members and business owners in our church (Goforth Jewelry and Osborn Drugs). The community is also a very big supporter with donations from individuals, Pilot Club, Inter-tribal Council and Arvest Bank. It is an honor to recognize these four women, and all the men and women behind the scenes, making this possible.
All photos of volunteers are submitted by those who nominated them. Some photos were unavailable or the subject declined to have a photograph shared, which we respect. All submissions may have been edited for style and length, and/or adapted for publication purposes.
Getting personal Ministries share the true impact of volunteers
CAMPUS MINISTRIES
At the Wesley Foundation at Langston, volunteers are truly the backbone of our work. From students serving meals during our free lunch program and “Midnight Munchies” events to organizing important gatherings like “See You at the Pole” and worship services, volunteers are essential to everything we do. They create a welcoming environment, maintain our facilities, and help us reach students in ways we couldn’t achieve on our own. We also rely heavily on partnerships with local churches and student groups to host events and lead worship, which further enriches our ministry.
About 70 percent of our work is accomplished through volunteer efforts. Without them, we would have to significantly reduce our programs, particularly those that focus on providing meals, fellowship, and spiritual growth opportunities. The cost savings are substantial, especially considering the labor hours that would otherwise be paid. In a given school year, the contribution of volunteers likely saves us thousands of dollars—resources we can redirect toward expanding programs and serving even more students.
More than just financial savings, the presence of volunteers brings life and energy to our ministry. Their dedication, whether in leading worship, organizing “See You at the Pole,” or helping with everyday tasks, reflects the
spirit of community and service that is at the heart of our mission. Volunteers are the ones who help us turn our vision into a reality, and their impact is felt in every aspect of the Wesley Foundation’s work.
The role of volunteer to the OU Wesley Foundation is so often determined by the gifts of particular friends and alumni. We have had volunteers lead small groups on spiritual gifts, step in to care for specific needs for a student, and share their time and resources regularly through home cooked meals, caring for our gardens and organizing our pantry. We have opportunities for volunteers weekly, monthly, or once a semester.
One of the greatest gifts volunteers share with the OU Wesley is serving on our board of directors. As members of the board, they help decide the direction of the ministry, helps us connect with local churches, and support our staff and students. As we look to recruit board members, we see ongoing needs of expertise in finance, legal matters, and marketing. Yet each class of recruited board members helps move the ministry forward in their own unique ways.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
I’m Meagan Durham, and I am the director of children’s ministry at Acts 2 UMC. I could not run our program without volunteers. Each Sunday I need about 16 adults to run our program safely and effectively. There is no way I could do it alone.
Many volunteers commit to every other Sunday, or once a month, and they are so important to the faith journey the children are on. Having another adult in their lives, other than parents, is so important.
As adult volunteers create relationships with the kids that they teach, those kids then have someone else cheering them on, teaching them life skills, and supporting them.
EXTENSION MINISTRIES
Linda Brinkworth is a shining example of an NSO volunteer. Especially during the recent loss of our beloved Ms. Shiela (one of NSO’s residents at Palo Duro), Linda always ensures that our residents come together to celebrate the lives of our residents when they pass. She was a board member, our board chair for two years through Covid, dedicating countless hours of her time to ensure our agency’s success, and she is currently serving as a board committee member and is always willing to help anytime she is asked.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of Neighborhood Services Organization. Their contributions significantly impact our work through various aspects, such as expanding our capacity, reducing our costs, providing us with specialized expertise, strengthening our credibility and reputation within the community and helping create a core group of people who consistently champion NSO’s mission. Volunteers are the driving force
that enables NSO to maximize our impact and reach our goals efficiently and with a community centered approach.
Sign up for gift wrapping for residents. This is a great way to connect with our organization and we always have lots of fun!
Palo Duro provides permanent housing for 28 unhoused individuals living with a diagnosed mental illness; Martha’s House offers homes to seven unhoused mothers with two or more children; Gatewood houses four unhoused women who are pregnant or who have one child under the age of five. The Carolyn Williams Center houses young men aging out of foster care.
A summer volunteer opportunity with Project Transformation
During Project Transformation
Oklahoma day camp at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Muskogee, the leaders do not need a watch to know when camp begins. They can tell it is about time to open the doors when Mr. Ray walks in, grabs his coffee and heads upstairs to the reading room. For as long as anyone can remember, Mr. Ray has volunteered to read alongside elementary age children from the community. The students clamor to get to read with him due to his steady presence and calm demeanor.
Firefighters may bring the truck to the parking lot and allow students a close up view of the equipment necessary to keep people safe. A local rancher might bring up some animals to show the children the different breeds that they raise.
Reading volunteers spend 30 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes each day listening to a child read and providing encouraging prompts and reassurance. One on one reading gives the students the necessary attention to read confidently. Reading volunteer is just one of several roles that are essential for Project Transformation day camp to be successful.
Additional volunteers are needed to purchase supplies for the healthy breakfasts and lunches that are served each day, as well as the people who prepare and serve those meals. Field trips are dependent on extra volunteers to drive the vehicles and chaperone the children. One common feature for many sites is inviting community members to share their experiences, expertise and hobbies.
At the end of the summer, volunteers are invited to reflect on their experiences with the children. When asked to share in 2024, one volunteer mentioned that she read with three children who had different learning styles and that she was able to make personal connections with them. Another volunteer enjoyed the joy that her student expressed when she mastered words that had previously been challenging. One more volunteer was touched when a child drew a picture of her as a gift.
As the weather starts to cool, Project Transformation Oklahoma is already preparing for summer 2025. With new sites joining next year, more volunteers will be needed. Pray and think about how you can make an impact on the lives of children by volunteering.
Mr. Ray reads with a student during Project Transformation in Muskogee.
Students enjoy a variety of enrichment activities during Project Transformation.
Campus Ministries Which one do you claim?
Every United Methodist church should have a few things:
• A common set of beliefs
• A place to meet
• Leadership (clergy and laity)
• A set of young people to nurture into adulthood
• And, because we’re United Methodists, a lot of great cooks
Do you sometimes look around and see too few young people when you gather? What if you could meet young people where they are and support and nurture them as they grow into their adult selves?
Most of the campus ministries in Oklahoma have opportunities for church members to schedule days to feed students. Sometimes it’s lunch; other times it’s a weekly dinner. Sometimes, there are special occasions.
If your church wishes to see more young faces, or if you’d just like to get in touch with the younger generation of Oklahomans, please consider preparing and sharing a meal with young adults at a Wesley Foundation.
Langston University 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Thursdays
Oklahoma State University (OSU) Stillwater 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays
Eastern Oklahoma State College (EOSC) United Ministry Holiday breaks and special times throughout the semester
Oklahoma City University (OCU) Wesley Center 7 p.m., Mondays
University of Oklahoma (OU) Wesley 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays (Thursdays the international students prepare)
The Wesley at Tulsa University (TU) 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Thursdays
Southeastern Oklahoma State University 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Thursdays
University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) Wesley 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Thursdays. Dinner and study 7 - 8:30 p.m., Tuesdays.
“WE LOOKED AROUND BUT KEPT COMING BACK. EPWORTH WAS IN OUR HEARTS.”
LIFE AT EPWORTH VILLA IS ALL ABOUT FREEDOM from home maintenance hassles and chores, and from worrying about future needs. And like the Potts, who are retired Methodist ministers, you might just find your freedom here at Epworth Villa too. We have beautiful cottages and apartments designed to fit a range of lifestyles and budgets, and the peace of mind of LifeCare is available no matter what home you choose. Come experience how great it is to live life your way, every day, at Epworth Villa.
Never underestimate the volunteer capacity of children and youth.
At Boston Avenue, different classes and departments in the church take a month to sponsor our Blessing Box. In March, Children’s Ministry is responsible for hosting a drive and filling the Blessing Box each week. Kids help purchase items, repackage the food for pets, and then come with their families to refill the box three times a week. I do not have any pictures of it because I started the job in May but I will get some this year.
At VBS 5th & 6th graders go to mission partner sites every morning.
On a similar idea as making cards for people who can’t leave their homes, we have taken the top of cans of soda and put flowers in it to deliver to church members and friends at Trinity Woods. The children haven’t done this in a few years, but we plan to do it this Advent season.
Allie McMurry, Children’s Ministry Director
Boston Avenue
AtFaith UMC, we offer an opportunity called, “Local Mission Day Camp,” for 4th & 5th graders for three days at the end of July, 9:00am5:00pm. This year, we traveled in church vans to locations around the Tulsa area. We served the Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless, Iron Gate (food distribution), Restore Hope, Emergency Infant Services and Tulsa SPCA. The tweens thrive in these service opportunities and their
eyes are opened to areas of need.
We also give opportunities each Sunday to share an offering in Sunday School and Kids Connection. The kids decide where their money will go. We wait until we reach our goal (usually $100-150), then send the funds to the selected organization or make and deliver the purchased items.
Examples:
• purchase and package kid food packs for Iron Gate (a stand-alone soup kitchen and grocery pantry)
• purchase and package birthday bags for Emergency Infant Services
• purchase and package dog food for clients of Night Light Tulsa
• donate to Youth Spring Break Mission Trip
• Christmas gifts for children in Osage County DHS
• purchase and deliver stuffed animals to Saint Francis Children’s Hospital
• purchase and deliver Housewarming Kits for Tulsa Day Center
Linda Saviers, Director of Kids Ministries
Faith UMC
Acts 2 UMC youth volunteer for mission work each summer.
Our Acts 2 UMC children have gathered to clean up trash around campus, as well as packing care bags for places like Infant Crisis Services. Each VBS we collect items for different groups, and at Christmas collect items for kids in foster care.
Speaking for our youth director, our youth attend SOS each summer in Tennessee. They repair roofs in the community while they are there.
Meagan Durham, Children’s Director
Acts 2 UMC
At FUMC Enid, we serve at Welcome Table, which is a once a month community-wide dinner that serves the homeless in our area
We have seasonal opportunities, such as setting up the church pumpkin patch!
Some Sunday we swap our youth group for a trip to a local charity to help do things like fill Christmas boxes or meal boxes.
Once a month, our church offers parents night out and the youth group children often help with childcare as a community ( and church) service opportunity.
Since we have an Air Force Base in our town, about
once every three months, we have a craft Sunday where we make cards and thank you letters for the veterans and new pilots.
I have a “How Can We Help” board, on which members of our church will post a little task they need help with around their house - this is meant for our older senior church members who can’t do things like weed their flowerbeds or hang up Christmas lights. Every week or two, we look at the board and delegate the task for the kids to go help! Nothing we do is unsafe, and usually it becomes a family community service project, but it’s such a sweet way to connect generations.
Ashley Black FUMC Enid
Get Out Get Going
Volunteer opportunities you can plan today
5 p.m., Nov. 16 @ Langston University Wesley Foundation
Help host Thanksgiving dinner to mark the end of the semester. Participate in both the meal and the worship. This year, the community will also launch a Meals on Wheels initiative during the event, to deliver meals to those who are sick or shut-in. Reach out to Ja’lyn Betts at infowflu@gmail.com for more information.
9 a.m. - Noon, Nov. 23 @ OU Wesley
For each home football game, the OU Wesley has their building open, and parking spots for sale. Nov. 23 OU will play Alabama! We expect many people to come through that day. Could you or your group help us get ready? We are using this time to help reorganize our storage space and be ready to host hundreds of football fans. We will gather Saturday November 16 from 9-noon. We will also have smaller work days every Wednesday morning from now until the 23. If you or your group would like to volunteer, please reach out to wesley@okwesley.org.
Coming Soon @ Neighborhood Services Organization
Sign up to provide Thanksgiving or Christmas baskets for clients at Palo Duro, Martha’s House, or Gatewood. Adopt clients for gifts, or sign up to help wrap those gifts. Cook meals at the Carolyn Williams Center with the clients. Teach a life skills class or provide child care for participating families. For more information go to their website or contact lgutierrez@nsookc.org.
