Joining Forces Conference recognizes recipients in Duncan

May 22—Organizations, nonprofits and individuals were recognized during the 17th Annual Joining Forces: Supporting Family-Professional Partnerships Conference on April 19 in Duncan.

During the conference, Stephanie RedElk presented awards to Pam Dobbins, Pathways to a Healthier You and Robin Arter.

The first award went to Dobbins for the 2024 Family Partner of the Year.

RedElk said Dobbins' dedication to community service is "truly remarkable."

"Over the past decade that I've had the privilege of knowing her, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to collaborate effectively with various community organizations," she said. "Whenever she identifies a need within the community, she goes above and beyond to address it."

RedElk said Dobbins began Heather's Hope in Comanche.

"A commendable initiative aimed at assisting mothers transitioning from prison, treatment facilities and domestic violence situations," she said. "Through this program, she offers invaluable mentorship and implements a faith-based curriculum to empower these women on their journey to rehabilitation."

Aside from Heather's Hope, RedElk said Dobbins manages the food pantry and recently launched The Hope Center in Comanche.

"This center will serve as a hub for providing support and training not only to the women in her program, but also to the entire community at large," RedElk said. "Pam's unwavering commitment to uplifting others is truly inspiring."

Dobbins said it's a joy to be recognized, but she doesn't do anything by herself.

"It is always my staff and we do collaborate with a lot of different organizations," Dobbins said. "It's the community coming together that enables us to do all that we do."

Dobbins said they serve a lot of families through each of their ministries.

"It impacts families from all ages," she said.

Next, RedElk presented the 2024 Community Partnership Award to Pathways to a Healthier You.

RedElk said Pathways to a Healthier You "embodies an impressive coalition of partnerships, uniting committed professionals and community leaders, both in their professional roles and personal capacities."

RedElk said there are several influential figures in Southwest Oklahoma who make active contributions.

"Pathways has been instrumental in leading significant initiatives throughout Stephens and Jefferson counties, dedicated to improving wellness and ensuring access to care in rural settings," RedElk said. "From our perspective, no other rural area in Oklahoma showcases a more comprehensive partnership than Pathways, fostering invaluable connections between community organizations and the constituents they support across these counties."

Executive Director of Pathways to a Healthier You, Kim Whaley said receiving the award is humbling.

She said this is for the Southwest Oklahoma area and the nomination came from Terri Kinder with Oklahoma Family Network. She said she's been a partner with Pathways for several years.

Whaley said she will begin her 10th year with Pathways this coming summer.

"To see where we were 10 years ago — we had about 25 people at the table and now we're doing work in two counties with multiple partners, it's a humbling experience," she said.

Whaley said they work to build families, strengthen families and more.

"Strengthening the core of families in both of our counties is such a huge priority for us," she said.

Whaley said everything their committees do revolves around kids, teens and the family core.

"It's really exciting to be recognized for that work," she said.

For the final award, RedElk presented the 2024 Professional Partner of the Year to Arter.

RedElk said Arter's dedication and passion as an advocate for inclusion shows throughout Duncan.

"Her tireless efforts go beyond simply ensuring everyone feels included — she actively creates opportunities for a more equitable and flourishing society," she said. "Robin champions inclusivity within Duncan. Her unwavering commitment fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for all residents."

Professionally, RedElk said Arter strives to create job opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

"As a Partners in Policymaking graduate and a previous board member of the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma, Robin possesses extensive knowledge and experience in disability advocacy," RedElk said.

RedElk said Arter consistently finds opportunities to seek solutions and address any challenges.

"Her recent project converting a building into a market and restaurant exemplifies her innovative approach to creating new employment avenues," she said. "Robin's dedication transcends mere professional obligation and her work is fueled by a genuine passion for improving the lives of others, particularly those with disabilities."

RedElk said Arter focuses beyond immediate needs.

"Her initiatives aim to create a lasting positive impact for both the current and future generations of Duncan and Oklahoma," she said. "Robin's exceptional blend of expertise, innovative spirit and unwavering passion makes her a truly deserving nominee for the Professional of the Year Award."

Arter, Think Ability Executive Director, said it's a great honor to receive the nomination.

"Then to get the award is amazing," Arter said.

Arter said she's spent 33 years in Duncan at her job.

"I couldn't do it without a great support team behind me and with me and right beside me and that's who the award really belongs to is the people I work with," she said.