Thanks to generous grant funding from United Way and the Viersen Foundation, the Okmulgee County Family Resource Center is undergoing a meaningful transformation – one that is already making a powerful difference in the lives of the individuals and families it serves.

In a recent interview, Director Keyna Richardson shared how the improvements are not only enhancing the facility itself, but also restoring a sense of dignity, comfort and independence for clients.

“These upgrades were much needed,” Richardson said. “We wanted to create a space where our clients feel safe, respected and empowered – and now we’re getting there.”

— A Kitchen That Feels Like Home Among the most impactful improvements is a newly renovated kitchen and conference area spaces that now serve as the heart of the center.

The kitchen, outfitted with handcrafted cabinetry and updated appliances, was built almost entirely by hand by local craftsman Jerry Hoover and a small crew. Every cabinet in the facility was constructed onsite, a testament to both craftsmanship and community investment.

“They built everything by hand,” Richardson noted. “You don’t see work like that much anymore. It took about three months, but it was absolutely worth it.”

The new kitchen is more than just a place to prepare meals-it represents independence for the families staying at the center.

“Our residents can come in and cook whenever they want,” Richardson explained. “If it’s two in the morning and someone wants to make a meal, they can. It gives them a sense of normalcy and control.”

For many, that simple ability is life-changing.

“One of the women who came in after it was finished said, ‘I’ve always wanted to cook in a big kitchen,’” Richardson said with a smile.

The upgrades are seen around the kitchen as spaces have been carefully designed to better serve families in transition.

Each resident now has designated personal storage areas, complete with numbered spaces and secure locks-helping ensure privacy and organization.

“These were designed with families in mind,” Richardson said. “Everyone has their own space for their belongings, and that’s important when you’re sharing a facility with others.”

Workstations have also been added, giving residents a place to use laptops, search for employment, complete schoolwork or access resources.

Additionally, a clothing area has been organized so residents can easily access needed items.

“When they need clothes, they can just come and get what they need,” Richardson said. “That’s something we’re really proud of.”

With the aid of grants, the center has addressed several long-standing maintenance issues. Flooring has been replaced in the kitchen and dining area, and worn-out fixtures refreshed.

“We had to change out vents that were old and rusty,” Richardson said. “You don’t want people walking into a space like that-it needed a facelift.”

While much progress has been made, Richardson emphasized that the work is ongoing. Plans are in place to install new carpeting in certain areas and then hopefully address exterior fencing issues that have persisted since around 2019 or 2020.

“That fence is still one of our main concerns,” she said. “We’re working toward getting that fixed next.”

Richardson credits the center’s dedicated board of directors for helping guide these improvements and supporting the mission every step of the way.

“Our board is very supportive,” she said. “They believe in what we’re doing, and that makes all the difference.”

The board currently consists of seven members, including President Louanne Robinson, Treasurer Nicole Winters, Vice President Louann Moudy and members Javier Ramirez, Billy Tennison, Mary Cossey and Larissa Williams.

Their leadership, combined with community partnerships and grant funding, has positioned the center for continued growth.

For Richardson, the upgrades represent more than physical improvements-they reflect a renewed commitment to those who rely on the center during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

“When people walk in now, it feels different,” she said. “It feels welcoming. It feels like someone cares.”

Though not a faithbased organization, Richardson believes the environment still carries a deeper sense of hope.

“We want people to know they’re not alone,” she said. “Whatever they believe, whoever they lean on-we want them to feel supported here.”

As the Okmulgee County Family Resource Center continues to evolve, one thing is clear: these improvements are not just about buildings-they’re about people, and the promise of a better tomorrow.