TEEM and ODOC partner to host Oklahoma Memorial 5K for women at Mabel Bassett

The Education and Employment Ministry, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and the Prison Health Initiative, is proud to announce a special 5K run for the women of Mabel Bassett Correctional Center. It will occur on April 27 to coincide with the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon.

PHI is designed to promote overall well-being by enhancing physical, mental, relational and emotional health. It encourages prosocial interaction and fosters community, support and accountability for residents inside MBCC. Collectively, 116 women have completed the program and shed 455 pounds.

“I was incarcerated at the old Mabel Bassett in OKC on April 19, 1995. When the attack on the Murrah Building occurred, it felt like an earthquake was shaking the prison,” said Verna, a MBCC resident. “It was such a sad day because so many lives were taken. So many people were affected.”

Throughout the month of April, women incarcerated at Mabel Bassett will participate in a running initiative, covering four to five miles daily as they work toward completing the full marathon distance of 26.2 miles. The 5K event on April 27 will serve as the last portion of the run, celebrating their dedication and perseverance.

“This initiative is about more than just running; it’s about empowerment, healing, connection to the community and fostering a sense of achievement for these women,” said Allie Gorman, Outreach and Communications Coordinator at TEEM. “By bringing the resilient spirit of the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon inside the gates of Mabel Bassett, we are providing an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.”

“The women incarcerated here continue to inspire me and fill me with pride,” said MBCC Warden Scott Tinsley. “Their commitment to honoring this significant moment in Oklahoma’s history is a powerful reminder that they remain Oklahoma citizens, even while incarcerated.”

The collaboration between TEEM, ODOC and PHI reflects a shared commitment to rehabilitation, reconciliation and reentry support. Prosocial events, like this 5K, have a lasting impact on participants by promoting discipline, confidence and a healthier lifestyle as they prepare to move forward in life.

“By committing to this challenge, they are not only improving their physical health but also building confidence, discipline and a sense of accomplishment that will benefit them far beyond the finish line,” said Corey Green, ODOC physician assistant and PHI sponsor.

“The OKC bombing is a significant event that impacts every Oklahoman. It is a reminder of the resiliency, resolve and ability to overcome that exist within our state," said Kris Steele, Director of TEEM. “We believe it is important to create an opportunity for everyone to commemorate these incredible attributes on April 27."