The OBF celebrated 75 Years of Impact at a sold-out event on June 10 at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City. Over $125,000 has been raised in honor of the OBF’s 75 years, which all goes to OBF Grantee Partners to provide legal aid, education and access to justice services for Oklahomans.
Guests dressed in cocktail attire with sparkle and modern disco flare to fit the of Diamonds & Disco. The event started with self-guided tours through the Tribal Nations and Mezzanine Galleries at the First Americans Museum. Modern indigenous inspired cuisine and cocktails were served by the chefs at the Thirty Nine Restaurant located inside the museum.
The Program, emceed by Bob Burke, included stories from three clients who received life changing legal services from OBF Grantee Partners. First, Maria Esther, victim of human trafficking and domestic violence, told her story via pre-recorded video of how she became a client of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Maria Esther received immigration legal services and is now a citizen of the US and a business owner.
Maria Esther Stands to be recognized.
Second, Qais, a new Neighbor to The Spero Project and a refugee from Afghanistan, shared his story of hope and how The Spero Project staff is helping him with citizenship, and English classes, and continues to serve as a resource as he settles into a new life in America.
Third, Sang Rem, refugee from Myanmar, told her journey of hope and how The Spero Project welcomed her and calmed her uneasy feelings about being in a new country. The staff at The Spero project also helped Sang with the process of citizenship and worked with her to speak English more comfortably. Two years later, Sang began working for The Spero Project as a Student Support Specialist, this role allowed her to pay her way through college. Last month, Sang graduated with a Master’s Degree in Family Life Education from the University of Central Oklahoma.
Sang Rem shares her story of hope.
After the program, guests enjoyed Magic Mirror Photobooth and the Take Cover band for the disco portion of the evening.
Among the many guests were OBF Grantee Partners from across the State who impact their local communities through providing legal services for children and families, domestic violence victims, first time juvenile offenders, court ordered diversion, mental health, civil legal aid, and law-related education. Event proceeds go to OBF Grantees during the allocations process for program funding.
There is still time to donate in support of our amazing Grantees through Diamonds & Disco75! Give Now!
Event photos can be found on the OBF Facebook Page