In early October 2024, Dawson Church of Birmingham, AL, made a profound impact in Oklahoma City (OKC) with a team of 149 dedicated volunteers. Partnering with the Kaleo Foundation, these volunteers brought essential resources, uplifting activities, and a message of hope to some of OKC’s most financially challenged neighborhoods.
A Four-Day Mission of Love and Service
The volunteers from Dawson Church stayed in OKC for four impactful days, channeling their passion and energy to serve local families in need. Working through the Kaleo Foundation, the team assembled an astounding 2,500 resource bags and hundreds of family boxes filled with essential items.
Each day, the Dawson volunteers visited four different local parks in economically disadvantaged areas, bringing an interactive experience to the community. Breaking into teams, they performed puppet shows, Bible lessons, and engaging Bible-based skits, offering entertainment, encouragement, and a positive message for both children and adults.
A Community Celebration on Day Four
To wrap up their mission, all the teams gathered on the fourth day for a grand community event in the parking lot of a local church. It was a true celebration, with a cookout serving hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, drinks, and more—all provided free to the community. Families enjoyed jump houses, face painting, and games, while the Dawson Christian band and choir performed, filling the air with uplifting music.
Volunteers distributed the remaining resource bags, family boxes, and any extra food and drinks to the hundreds of attendees, ensuring that every person left with something meaningful. This closing event was a joyous finale, uniting everyone who had been part of the mission over the previous days and leaving a lasting positive impact.
Kaleo Foundation: The Driving Force Behind the Mission
The Kaleo Foundation generously provided the resources needed for this event, making it possible for Dawson Church to carry out such a meaningful initiative. The foundation’s commitment to OKC’s underserved communities, combined with the compassion and hard work of Dawson Church’s volunteers, created a memorable experience that resonated deeply within the community.
This partnership between Dawson Church and the Kaleo Foundation was a powerful testament to the difference people can make when united in purpose. Through their dedication, they delivered not only practical resources but also messages of faith, hope, and unity to the OKC community.
