Every day across our state, individuals like Christopher Spradley and Kalla Anderson are redefining what it means to serve the community through their remarkable efforts with Oklahoma Human Services. Spradley, formerly a Specialist with Adult Protective Services (APS), now Social Services Inspector, and Anderson, an APS specialist, have embarked on an initiative aimed at bringing hope to Oklahoma's most vulnerable adults. Their innovative approach, centered around creating comprehensive resource packets, exemplifies their commitment to preventive care and community empowerment. Led by APS Supervisor Paul Goodner, the entire unite played a crucial role in supporting their efforts.

The idea for the resource packets emerged from a simple yet powerful observation by Rachel McAbe, a new worker in the unit, who observed that numerous individuals were unsure about where to seek assistance. "She brought it up right away that many people didn't know where to turn for help," Spradley recalls. Monthly coalition meetings revealed a significant gap in awareness and access to resources. Recognizing this, Spradley and Anderson reached out to Susan Wylie, a social worker at the McAlester Regional Health Center. Knowing Wylie’s deep connection to the local community, Spradley saw her as a crucial partner in reaching other service organizations. Together, they began compiling essential information into packets that could be easily distributed during home visits, providing clients with valuable resources to review at their convenience. This initiative quickly expanded, with packets being delivered to fire departments, hospitals, courthouses and other community hubs.

Their collaboration was seamless and rooted in a shared mission. "We work as a team; if we ever need anything, it's as simple as a phone call," Wylie explains. This spirit of cooperation extended beyond their immediate circle, fostering partnerships with other organizations striving to assist those in need. Despite challenges like limited media coverage and finding a central hub for information, their persistence paid off. Initiatives such as endorsements from local leadership and widespread distribution of brochures have helped raise awareness about available resources, providing a lifeline to many in crisis.

The impact of these resource packets is profound and deeply personal. Wylie recounts a case where a rehab patient, facing the loss of their home and ineligible for food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), found hope through the connections made via the resource packet. "We sat down with them, went through the brochure, and got them hooked up with the tribal nation. It was a domino effect as we knocked down barriers by helping them make connections," she says. For Spradley, the ultimate goal is to prevent the need for APS intervention entirely. "If they get referred to APS, something has already broken down. We want to stop the breakdown before it starts," he emphasizes.

Initiatives like this foster a sense of hope within the community by illuminating pathways out of darkness for those in despair. "When they're down on their luck and learn about these resources, it's a light in the darkness," Spradley explains. The relief and gratitude in the eyes of those they help fuel their ongoing efforts and inspire others in the community.

To those looking to initiate similar projects to support their own community, Spradley advises, "Find someone who has connections and build a network. Share information freely." His message underscores the importance of collaboration and persistent effort in making a tangible difference. For Spradley and his colleagues, being a "Hope Hero" means empowering others, opening doors and ultimately working toward a future where preventive measures render crisis intervention unnecessary.

The work of Spradley, Anderson and Wylie is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and community collaboration. Their efforts not only provide immediate assistance but also inspire a broader movement of hope and proactive care within Oklahoma and beyond.

Spradley also reflects on the deeper meaning behind being a hero. "I love classic literature, poetry, and history, where heroes often sacrifice their time, wealth, comfort, or even themselves to serve others. They might not even know their dedication is noticed until a great outcome occurs," he shares. This selfless attitude is mirrored in the efforts of people like Wylie, Anderson, and others within the agency and across the state who sacrifice to help those in need. They go beyond what’s expected of their job to search for new resources, learn about what’s needed, and make connections that benefit those in need. Their impact, though often unseen, is tremendous in the lives they touch.

The collective efforts of these individuals, along with support from numerous partners and organizations, underscore the power of community in creating lasting change.

For those needing assistance, or for organizations offering support and resources, check out beaneighbor.ok.gov.

Do you have a #HopeHeroes story you would like to share? Email it to HopeHeroes@okdhs.org.