Volunteers make a difference in OKC

Smiles, bags of groceries, bottles of antibiotics and hugs all have at least one thing in common: volunteers hand them out for free.

In 2007, Oklahoma City had 1,930 homeless residents, and volunteers provide them with much of the help they get.

School clubs, church groups, charitable organizations use volunteers of all ages to provide services. Capitol Hill Church of Christ in downtown Oklahoma City operates the Lighthouse Medical Clinic, a free clinic for those who cannot afford to pay for health care, and physicians donate their time to treat patients.

One such physician is Dr. Geoff Hoover, a family practice doctor and Capitol Hill parishioner who donates time to Lighthouse.

“He has a heart for the poor,” clinic worker Beverly North said, adding the patients Hoover and other physicians treat are relieved of a great burden by being able to turn to Capitol Hill for help.

“By volunteering, you help change the world for the better,” Edmond Memorial High School junior Christina Nguyen said.

Hannah Bingham
Junior
Edmond Memorial High School