3 20 643 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/2966bf6258db63547f9cc48e393b7b87.pdf 277b4191954a83a22a14519257bad1d4 PDF Text Text REVENUE Grant Revenue Contributions Clinic Services Store/Vending Sales (net) Bar/Concession Sales (net) Lynn Riggs/KitchenRental Event/Ticket Sales EBA/OkEq Membership Gala PrideFestival & Bingo Art Gallery (net) Investment Income TOTAL REVENUE* OKEQ Internal Actual FYE 9/30/2023 $268,455 ( $217,730 ( $60,804 ( $8,874 ( $20,699 ( $5,063 ( $40,706 ( $18,891 ( $262,174 ( $249,672 ( $1,873 ( $0 ( 1,154,941 ( EXPENDITURES Salaries & Wages Benefits Contract Services IT Software/Equipment Accounting & Legal Fees Insurance Utilities/Phone Office expenses Cleaning & supplies Repairs & Maintenance Business Licenses & Permits Memberships Marketing and Advertising Security (excluding Pride) Clinic Supplies & Lab Other Program Expenses Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) Non-Cap Equipment Vehicle Expenses Meals & Entertainment Travel Transaction Fees (excl Pride and Gala) Bank Fees & Charges Gala Expenses Pride Festival Expenses $352,490 ( $36,981 ( $49,626 ( $42,707 ( $81,340 ( $24,815 ( $45,582 ( $26,850 ( $21,552 ( $27,699 ( $4,964 ( $2,416 ( $1,474 ( $14,683 ( $15,435 ( $8,617 ( $16,725 ( $4,519 ( $178 ( $4,030 ( $2,228 ( $5,499 ( $2,404 ( $125,070 ( $218,495 ( TOTAL EXPENDITURES* 1,136,379 ( Proposed Budget Notes 350,000) 225,000) 95,000) Increase in services in FY2024 8,000) Net out Cost of goods sold 25,000) Net out Cost of goods sold 15,000) $600/month plus events 25,000) 15,000) 250,000) 225,000) Includes Pride Bingo 2,000) Net out artists costs 2,000) 1,237,000) 460,000) At current staff capacity. 91,000) Payroll taxes, phone, and benefits 12,000) HR $750/month plus flexibility 30,000) Avg $2500/month 30,000) OKNPP $2200/mo, audit and 990 28,000) Includes 10% increase 48,000) based on current 30,000) Supplies, software, printing, postage 31,000) $2500/mo plus supplies 30,000) 7,500) City permits, ABLE 2,500) 2,500) 25,000) 25,000) 5,000) 25,000) 3,000) 7,500) Van Storage$375/mo plus maintenance 5,000) 6,000) 6,000) 2,000) 125,000) 200,000) 1,237,000) �Net Revenue over Expenditures ( 18,562) ( - ) � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document REVENUE OKEQ Internal Actual FYE 9/30/2023 Proposed Budget Notes Grant Revenue $268,455 ( 350,000) Contributions $217,730 ( 225,000) Clinic Services $60,804 ( 95,000) Increase in services in FY2024 Store/Vending Sales (net) $8,874 ( 8,000) Net out Cost of goods sold Bar/Concession Sales (net) $20,699 ( 25,000) Net out Cost of goods sold Lynn Riggs/KitchenRental $5,063 ( 15,000) $600/month plus events Event/Ticket Sales $40,706 ( 25,000) EBA/OkEq Membership $18,891 ( 15,000) Gala $262,174 ( 250,000) PrideFestival & Bingo $249,672 ( 225,000) Includes Pride Bingo Art Gallery (net) $1,873 ( 2,000) Net out artists costs Investment Income $0 ( 2,000) TOTAL REVENUE* 1,154,941 ( 1,237,000) EXPENDITURES Salaries & Wages $352,490 ( 460,000) At current staff capacity. Benefits $36,981 ( 91,000) Payroll taxes, phone, and benefits Contract Services $49,626 ( 12,000) HR $750/month plus flexibility IT Software/Equipment $42,707 ( 30,000) Avg $2500/month Accounting & Legal Fees $81,340 ( 30,000) OKNPP $2200/mo, audit and 990 Insurance $24,815 ( 28,000) Includes 10% increase Utilities/Phone $45,582 ( 48,000) based on current Office expenses $26,850 ( 30,000) Supplies, software, printing, postage Cleaning & supplies $21,552 ( 31,000) $2500/mo plus supplies Repairs & Maintenance $27,699 ( 30,000) Business Licenses & Permits $4,964 ( 7,500) City permits, ABLE Memberships $2,416 ( 2,500) Marketing and Advertising $1,474 ( 2,500) Security (excluding Pride) $14,683 ( 25,000) Clinic Supplies & Lab $15,435 ( 25,000) Other Program Expenses $8,617 ( 5,000) Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) $16,725 ( 25,000) Non-Cap Equipment $4,519 ( 3,000) Vehicle Expenses $178 ( 7,500) Van Storage$375/mo plus maintenance Meals & Entertainment $4,030 ( 5,000) Travel $2,228 ( 6,000) Transaction Fees (excl Pride and Gala) $5,499 ( 6,000) Bank Fees & Charges $2,404 ( 2,000) Gala Expenses $125,070 ( 125,000) Pride Festival Expenses $218,495 ( 200,000) TOTAL EXPENDITURES* 1,136,379 ( 1,237,000) Net Revenue over Expenditures ( 18,562) ( - ) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] OKEQ FY2024 Draft Budget Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Draft from February 12, 2024 Description An account of the resource 2 pages of a draft of the Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) budget for the fiscal year of 2024. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource February 12, 2024 2023 2024 budget budgeting Financial OkEq OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/07f31b1526363bd70f1324014054f91c.pdf 78fdba7bf6ea9f3bdd9b4d9fc2c96023 PDF Text Text REVENUE Grant Revenue Contributions I Am Equality Giving Corps Clinic Services Store/Vending Sales (net) Bar/Concession Sales (net) Rentals (Theater/Kitchen/Event Center) Event/Ticket Sales Equality Business Alliance OKEQ Membership Gala (net proceeds) Pride Festival & Bingo Art Gallery/Misc Investment Income TOTAL REVENUE BUDGET FY2024 266,000 277,600 70,000 10,000 20,000 25,000 25,000 5,000 5,000 350,000 500 1,054,100 EXPENDITURES Salaries & Wages Payroll Taxes and Benefits Contract Services Storage Insurance-Liability & Cyber Insurance-D&O Insurance-Workers Comp Insurance-Property Insurance-Clinic Insurance-Van Utilities/Phone (see tab) Office expenses (see tab) Cleaning & supplies Repairs & Maintenance Business Licenses & Permits Memberships and Subscriptions Marketing and Advertising Security (excluding Pride) Clinic Supplies & Lab Other Program Expenses Community Outreach Library Materials Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) Non-Cap Equipment Vehicle Expenses Meals & Entertainment Travel & Training Transaction Fees (excl Pride and Gala) Bank Fees & Charges Gala Expenses Pride Festival Expenses TOTAL EXPENDITURES* Net Revenue over Expenditures Actual OctAugust 247,294 318,589 67,878 7,190 13,353 26,070 7,565 7,526 571,891 11,398 368 2 1,279,124 BUDGET FY2025 200,000 125,000 125,000 75,000 10,000 15,000 35,000 30,000 10,000 5,000 (net) 225,000 248,924 1,000 2,000 1,106,924 350,000 50,000 100,750 5,000 8,000 2,200 2,500 12,000 1,500 3,000 43,000 20,000 26,000 30,000 13,500 1,000 2,500 20,000 15,875 5,000 1,200 25,000 3,000 1,500 5,000 3,000 16,000 1,625 125,000 893,150 331,127 62,773 87,125 4,084 6,414 2,007 3,323 10,433 991 2,557 33,376 30,100 14,283 35,413 7,213 1,198 85 16,298 10,794 1,122 1,361 10,758 3,180 155 3,298 2,879 11,778 1,209 106,912 3,806 806,052 409,333 71,078 101,850 4,560 8,000 2,200 3,800 12,000 1,500 3,000 34,380 27,000 12,000 20,000 2,000 1,500 1,200 20,000 15,000 7,500 24,000 8,500 15,000 7,500 3,000 5,000 10,000 10,000 500 233,946 1,075,347 160,950 473,072 31,577 (included above) � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document REVENUE BUDGET FY2024 Actual Oct-August BUDGET FY2025 Grant Revenue 266,000 247,294 200,000 Contributions 277,600 318,589 125,000 I Am Equality Giving Corps - - 125,000 Clinic Services 70,000 67,878 75,000 Store/Vending Sales (net) 10,000 7,190 10,000 Bar/Concession Sales (net) 20,000 13,353 15,000 Rentals (Theater/Kitchen/Event Center) 25,000 26,070 35,000 Event/Ticket Sales 25,000 7,565 30,000 Equality Business Alliance 5,000 7,526 10,000 OKEQ Membership 5,000 (included above) 5,000 Gala (net proceeds) 350,000 571,891 (net) 225,000 Pride Festival & Bingo - 11,398 248,924 Art Gallery/Misc 500 368 1,000 Investment Income - 2 2,000 TOTAL REVENUE 1,054,100 1,279,124 1,106,924 EXPENDITURES Salaries & Wages 350,000 331,127 409,333 Payroll Taxes and Benefits 50,000 62,773 71,078 Contract Services 100,750 87,125 101,850 Storage 5,000 4,084 4,560 Insurance-Liability & Cyber 8,000 6,414 8,000 Insurance-D&O 2,200 2,007 2,200 Insurance-Workers Comp 2,500 3,323 3,800 Insurance-Property 12,000 10,433 12,000 Insurance-Clinic 1,500 991 1,500 Insurance-Van 3,000 2,557 3,000 Utilities/Phone (see tab) 43,000 33,376 34,380 Office expenses (see tab) 20,000 30,100 27,000 Cleaning & supplies 26,000 14,283 12,000 Repairs & Maintenance 30,000 35,413 20,000 Business Licenses & Permits 13,500 7,213 2,000 Memberships and Subscriptions 1,000 1,198 1,500 Marketing and Advertising 2,500 85 1,200 Security (excluding Pride) 20,000 16,298 20,000 Clinic Supplies & Lab 15,875 10,794 15,000 Other Program Expenses 5,000 1,122 7,500 Community Outreach - - 24,000 Library Materials 1,200 1,361 8,500 Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) 25,000 10,758 15,000 Non-Cap Equipment 3,000 3,180 7,500 Vehicle Expenses 1,500 155 3,000 Meals & Entertainment 5,000 3,298 5,000 Travel & Training 3,000 2,879 10,000 Transaction Fees (excl Pride and Gala) 16,000 11,778 10,000 Bank Fees & Charges 1,625 1,209 500 Gala Expenses 125,000 106,912 - Pride Festival Expenses - 3,806 233,946 TOTAL EXPENDITURES* 893,150 806,052 1,075,347 Net Revenue over Expenditures 160,950 473,072 31,577 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] OKEQ FY2025 Budget Approved September 2024 Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Approved September 2024 Description An account of the resource 1 page of the Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) budget for the fiscal year of 2025, approved in September 2024. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 2024 2024 2025 budget budgeting Financial OkEq OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/82e1ad4b35fd36fc03c731e87fd62957.pdf 0e8361bba9cc13e68f49514328c5c38f PDF Text Text OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY FY2024 Financial Statements Preliminary-unaudited �Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Statement of Financial Position As of September 30, 2024 ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 577,378 Accounts Receivable/POS System 5,007 Endowment-TFC-Capital 27,724 Endowment-TFC-Op 14,139 Prepaid Expenses 62,428 Inventory 8,946 Fixed Assets (Less: Accum. Dep) 1,117,415 TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,813,037 LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Liabilities Accounts Payable 18,199 Deferred Revenue 79,886 Accrued Expenses Payable 1,666 Payroll Payable 7,753 PTO Accrual Payable 19,763 Artists Payable 103 Sales tax to Pay 942 Total Liabilities $ 128,311 Net Assets With Donor Restriction 31,316 Without Donor Restriction 1,653,410 Total Net Assets $ 1,684,726 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $ 1,813,037 �Oklahoman's for Equality Statement of Activity October 1, 2023 - September 2024 Revenue Grant Revenue Contributions Clinic Services Sales Event/Kitchen Rental EBA/OKEQ Memberships Equality Gala Pride Festival & Bingo Misc Income Investment Income Total Revenue 255,794 324,548 76,030 26,296 26,670 7,881 571,891 11,277 276 231 1,300,893 Expenditures Personnel Contract Services Storage Insurance Office & Utilitie Expenses Business Licenses & Permits Marketing and Advertising Security Clinic Supplies & Lab Program Expenses Non-Cap Equipment Travel Bank Fees & CC Fees Gala Expenses Pride Festival & Bingo Total Expenditures 441,078 98,965 4,482 28,278 130,854 11,417 800 16,503 12,935 70,249 3,180 2,859 13,454 106,912 5,407 947,371 Depreciation-Fixed Assets Amortization-Building & Land Net Revenue over Expenses 7,619 93,384 252,520 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY FY2024 Financial Statements Preliminary-unaudited Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Statement of Financial Position As of September 30, 2024 ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 577,378 Accounts Receivable/POS System 5,007 Endowment-TFC-Capital 27,724 Endowment-TFC-Op 14,139 Prepaid Expenses 62,428 Inventory 8,946 Fixed Assets (Less: Accum. Dep) 1,117,415 TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,813,037 LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Liabilities Accounts Payable 18,199 Deferred Revenue 79,886 Accrued Expenses Payable 1,666 Payroll Payable 7,753 PTO Accrual Payable 19,763 Artists Payable 103 Sales tax to Pay 942 Total Liabilities $ 128,311 Net Assets With Donor Restriction 31,316 Without Donor Restriction 1,653,410 Total Net Assets $ 1,684,726 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $ 1,813,037 Oklahoman's for Equality Statement of Activity October 1, 2023 - September 2024 Revenue Grant Revenue 255,794 Contributions 324,548 Clinic Services 76,030 Sales 26,296 Event/Kitchen Rental 26,670 EBA/OKEQ Memberships 7,881 Equality Gala 571,891 Pride Festival & Bingo 11,277 Misc Income 276 Investment Income 231 Total Revenue 1,300,893 Expenditures Personnel 441,078 Contract Services 98,965 Storage 4,482 Insurance 28,278 Office & Utilitie Expenses 130,854 Business Licenses & Permits 11,417 Marketing and Advertising 800 Security 16,503 Clinic Supplies & Lab 12,935 Program Expenses 70,249 Non-Cap Equipment 3,180 Travel 2,859 Bank Fees & CC Fees 13,454 Gala Expenses 106,912 Pride Festival & Bingo 5,407 Total Expenditures 947,371 Depreciation-Fixed Assets 7,619 Amortization-Building & Land 93,384 Net Revenue over Expenses 252,520 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] OKEQ FY2024 Financial Statements Unaudited Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality Preliminary Unaudited Financial Statements Description An account of the resource 3 pages of financial statements for Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) for the fall period of 2024. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 30, 2024 2023 2024 Financial financial statements OkEq OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) statement of activity https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/31bfda5165b0746280882931c907e116.pdf c62a0d8cd65108708fdb1542b110edce PDF Text Text OKEQ-FY2025 Budget-Revision Draft REVENUE Grant Revenue Contributions I Am Equality Clinic Services Store/Vending Sales (net) Bar/Concession Sales (net) Art Gallery (net) Event/Ticket Sales Lynn Riggs/KitchenRental Equality Business Alliance OKEQ Membership In-Kind Donations Gala (net proceeds) Pride Festival & Bingo Investment Income TOTAL REVENUE FY2025 200,000 125,000 125,000 75,000 10,000 15,000 1,000 30,000 35,000 10,000 5,000 225,000 248,924 2,000 1,106,924 Revision Notes 275,000 Aids Coalition, DN, Ascension 110,000 Already at $85k Remove 85,000 7,500 15,000 1,000 5,000 Delay in hiring 20,000 Delay in hiring 10,000 1,000 Not ready to relaunch 5,000 Catering from TW-AB 300,000 134,547 3,000 972,047 EXPENDITURES Salaries & Wages Payroll Taxes and Benefits Workers Com Contract Services IT Services Accounting Services and Audit HR Consultant Executive Consultant Archivist/History Coordinator Marketing Services Data Services Legal Services Other Contract Services Storage Vehicle Expenses Insurance-Liability & Cyber Insurance-D&O Insurance-Property Insurance-Clinic Insurance-Van Utilities/Phone Office expenses Office Supplies & Services Software/TechPlatforms/Digital Apps Shipping & Postage Copy Lease & Printing Cleaning & supplies Repairs & Maintenance Business Licenses & Permits Memberships and Subscriptions Non-Cap Equipment Meals & Entertainment Marketing and Advertising Security (excluding Pride) Clinic Supplies & Lab Other Program Expenses Library Materials Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) Community Outreach Travel & Training Pride Festival Expenses Transaction Fees Bank Fees & Charges TOTAL EXPENDITURES Use of Reserves Net Revenue over Expenditures FY2025 409,333 71,078 3,800 101,950 4,560 3,000 8,000 2,200 12,000 1,500 3,000 34,380 27,000 12,000 20,000 2,000 1,500 7,500 5,000 1,200 20,000 15,000 7,500 8,500 15,000 24,000 10,000 233,946 10,000 500 1,075,447 31,477 Revision Notes 339,165 Adjust. based on current positions and 3 mos. ED 63,000 7,800 Increased due to 2023 wc audit and staff. Replaced with detailed line items 25,200 38,000 9,000 56,250 8,000 Grant funded 9,500 21,000 Data Capacity Group 5,000 25,000 Restorative Justice and Charity Engine 4,560 2,500 8,000 2,200 14,000 1,500 3,000 30,000 Replaced with detailed line items 4,000 27,500 Data Capacity Grant, Charity Engine 1,000 4,300 12,000 $595/month services, plus Cintas 12,000 2,000 1,500 7,500 5,000 Staff, donor relations, board 1,200 10,000 15,000 20,000 Gender Marker Grant, Food Insecurity Grant 8,500 Grant funded support for remote libraries 5,000 16,000 Support to other organizations 5,000 Conferences, staff development 186,372 5,000 500 1,022,047 50,000 0 �Beginning Year Cash Net Income/Loss Reserve Use Estimated Year End Cash FY2025 580,360 31,477 611,837 Revision 580,360 (50,000) 50,000 530,360 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document OKEQ-FY2025 Budget-Revision Draft REVENUE FY2025 Revision Notes Grant Revenue 200,000 275,000 Aids Coalition, DN, Ascension Contributions 125,000 110,000 Already at $85k I Am Equality 125,000 - Remove Clinic Services 75,000 85,000 Store/Vending Sales (net) 10,000 7,500 Bar/Concession Sales (net) 15,000 15,000 Art Gallery (net) 1,000 1,000 Event/Ticket Sales 30,000 5,000 Delay in hiring Lynn Riggs/KitchenRental 35,000 20,000 Delay in hiring Equality Business Alliance 10,000 10,000 OKEQ Membership 5,000 1,000 Not ready to relaunch In-Kind Donations - 5,000 Catering from TW-AB Gala (net proceeds) 225,000 300,000 Pride Festival & Bingo 248,924 134,547 Investment Income 2,000 3,000 TOTAL REVENUE 1,106,924 972,047 EXPENDITURES FY2025 Revision Notes Salaries & Wages 409,333 339,165 Adjust. based on current positions and 3 mos. ED Payroll Taxes and Benefits 71,078 63,000 Workers Com 3,800 7,800 Increased due to 2023 wc audit and staff. Contract Services 101,950 - Replaced with detailed line items IT Services - 25,200 Accounting Services and Audit - 38,000 HR Consultant - 9,000 Executive Consultant - 56,250 Archivist/History Coordinator - 8,000 Grant funded Marketing Services - 9,500 Data Services - 21,000 Data Capacity Group Legal Services - 5,000 Other Contract Services - 25,000 Restorative Justice and Charity Engine Storage 4,560 4,560 Vehicle Expenses 3,000 2,500 Insurance-Liability & Cyber 8,000 8,000 Insurance-D&O 2,200 2,200 Insurance-Property 12,000 14,000 Insurance-Clinic 1,500 1,500 Insurance-Van 3,000 3,000 Utilities/Phone 34,380 30,000 Office expenses 27,000 - Replaced with detailed line items Office Supplies & Services - 4,000 Software/TechPlatforms/Digital Apps - 27,500 Data Capacity Grant, Charity Engine Shipping & Postage - 1,000 Copy Lease & Printing - 4,300 Cleaning & supplies 12,000 12,000 $595/month services, plus Cintas Repairs & Maintenance 20,000 12,000 Business Licenses & Permits 2,000 2,000 Memberships and Subscriptions 1,500 1,500 Non-Cap Equipment 7,500 7,500 Meals & Entertainment 5,000 5,000 Staff, donor relations, board Marketing and Advertising 1,200 1,200 Security (excluding Pride) 20,000 10,000 Clinic Supplies & Lab 15,000 15,000 Other Program Expenses 7,500 20,000 Gender Marker Grant, Food Insecurity Grant Library Materials 8,500 8,500 Grant funded support for remote libraries Event Expenses (excl Pride and Gala) 15,000 5,000 Community Outreach 24,000 16,000 Support to other organizations Travel & Training 10,000 5,000 Conferences, staff development Pride Festival Expenses 233,946 186,372 Transaction Fees 10,000 5,000 Bank Fees & Charges 500 500 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 1,075,447 1,022,047 Use of Reserves - 50,000 Net Revenue over Expenditures 31,477 0 FY2025 Revision Beginning Year Cash 580,360 580,360 Net Income/Loss 31,477 (50,000) Reserve Use - 50,000 Estimated Year End Cash 611,837 530,360 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2025] OKEQ FY2025 Budget Revision Draft Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Revision Draft Description An account of the resource 2 pages of a draft revision of the Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) budget for the fiscal year of 2025. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 2025 budget budgeting Financial OkEq OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/4ac99159389ad070ebb7eaf1910efb37.pdf 56d06a1d8c479c60f7921ea91bf0633a PDF Text Text Finance Policy Manual Adopted (date) �Contents Section 1 – Introduction .............................................................................................. 4 Section 2 – General Provisions .................................................................................... 4 2.1 Segregation of Duties .................................................................................. 4 2.2 Accounting Period ....................................................................................... 4 2.3 Accounting Method ..................................................................................... 4 2.4 Accounting System ...................................................................................... 4 2.5 Consistent Treatment .................................................................................. 4 2.6 Finance Committee...................................................................................... 4 2.7 Non-Compliance .......................................................................................... 5 Section 3 – Cash, Banking and Investments ................................................................. 5 3.1 Bank Authority ........................................................................................... 5 3.2 Banking Relationships ................................................................................. 5 3.3 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Coverage (FDIC) .............................. 5 3.4 Bank Reconciliations.................................................................................... 5 3.5 Deposits ...................................................................................................... 5 3.6 Voided Checks ............................................................................................. 5 3.7 Petty Cash ................................................................................................... 6 3.8 Credit/Prepaid Debit Cards .......................................................................... 6 3.9 Investments................................................................................................. 7 Section 4 – Accounts Receivable and Revenue Recognition ......................................... 7 4.1 Invoicing ...................................................................................................... 7 4.2 Revenue Recognition ................................................................................... 7 4.3 Contribution Acknowledgement .................................................................. 7 Section 5 – Other Assets.............................................................................................. 7 5.1 Fixed Assets ................................................................................................. 7 5.2 Fixed Asset Depreciation ............................................................................. 7 5.3 Fixed Asset Disposition ................................................................................ 8 5.4 Prepaid Assets ............................................................................................. 8 Section 6 – Purchasing and Payables ........................................................................... 8 6.1 Open Competition ....................................................................................... 8 6.2 Approval Limits ........................................................................................... 8 6.3 Contracts and Agreements .......................................................................... 8 6.4 Accounts Payable ........................................................................................ 9 6.5 Tax Reporting and Compliance .................................................................... 9 Section 7 – Payroll and Related Liabilities.................................................................... 9 7.1 Payroll Processing ........................................................................................ 9 7.2 Payroll Liabilities ......................................................................................... 9 7.3 Payroll Reporting ......................................................................................... 9 7.4 Payroll Changes ........................................................................................... 9 Page 2 of 14 �Section 8 – Other Liabilities ....................................................................................... 10 8.1 Accruals ..................................................................................................... 10 8.2 Loans ......................................................................................................... 10 8.3 Assumption of Debt ................................................................................... 10 8.4 Long-Term Debt ......................................................................................... 10 8.5 Deferred Revenue ..................................................................................... 10 Section 9 – Travel and Expense Reimbursement ....................................................... 10 9.1 Travel Expenses ......................................................................................... 10 9.2 Employee Expense Reimbursement ........................................................... 10 9.3 Unallowable Expenses ............................................................................... 11 Section 10 – Financial Reporting................................................................................ 12 10.1 Review..................................................................................................... 12 10.2 Reporting Frequency ............................................................................... 12 10.3 Journal Entries ......................................................................................... 12 10.4 Balance Sheet Reconciliations.................................................................. 12 10.5 Financial Audit ......................................................................................... 12 Section 11 – Budgeting .............................................................................................. 12 11.1 Organization Budget ................................................................................ 12 11.2 Programmatic/Grant Budgets .................................................................. 13 11.3 Event Budgets.......................................................................................... 13 Section 12 – Document Retention and Destruction ................................................... 13 Page 3 of 14 �Section 1 – Introduction Oklahomans for Equality, hereinafter referred to as “OKEQ” is a tax-exempt organization pursuant to Internal Revenue Code §501(c)(3). The mission of OkEq is to seek equal rights for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Ace, and plus (2SLGBTQIA+) individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. This manual contains the internal controls and financial management standards used by OKEQ to safeguard all assets and ensure that they are used solely for authorized purposes. All Board of Directors, employees and/or contractors have a responsibility to utilize the organization’s assets in the most efficient manner possible and to guard against loss of the organization’s assets whether due to error or fraud. It is important that these internal controls are observed to maintain the highest level of fiscal integrity and accountability. Management, including but not limited to the Board of Directors (the Board), will have the responsibility for interpretation of these policies. All questions regarding financial policy should be directed to the Finance Committee. Section 2 – General Provisions 2.1 Segregation of Duties Proper segregation of duties shall be maintained at all times in order to safeguard the assets of the organization. No single individual shall have the authority to both request and approve the disbursement or obligation of funds. The Board and the Finance Committee are charged with general oversight of the finance function and will be provided periodic financial reports to facilitate this duty. 2.2 Accounting Period The accounting period of OKEQ is October 1 thru September 30. 2.3 Accounting Method OKEQ will utilize the accrual method of accounting, in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). 2.4 Accounting System OKEQ will use an ERP accounting system that includes the capability to segregate activity by funding source. Within this accounting system, a chart of accounts will be established that ensures proper classification of activity by account type and in alignment with line items included in approved budgets. 2.5 Consistent Treatment All financial policies and procedures shall be applied consistently across all funding sources and across all funding periods. 2.6 Finance Committee Page 4 of 14 �An integral part of the internal controls outlined in this document is the existence of a Finance Committee that reports to the Board. The Finance Committee will be chaired by the Treasurer. Other members of the Board and/or community members may be appointed to the committee by the Treasurer. 2.7 Non-Compliance Compliance with this policy is mandatory. No employee has the authority to act contrary to the provisions of this policy or to authorize, direct, or condone violations of it by any other employee or by any representative of OkEq. Any employee who has knowledge of facts or incidents which is to be believed in violation of this policy has an obligation, promptly after learning of such fact or incident, to review the matter with Executive Director or someone from the Executive Committee. Section 3 – Cash, Banking and Investments 3.1 Bank Authority Bank Signers should be voted by the board and be limited to three elected members of the Executive Committee. Upon approval of the Board, changes to the authorized signers will be communicated to the banking institution by a member of the Finance Committee. . 3.2 Banking Relationships Banking relationships will be reviewed every two years by the Finance Committee to ensure competitive interest rates are being received, determine if alternate banking products have become more suitable, and make sure fees and charges are reasonable. The results of any review of banking relationships will be provided to the Finance Committee along with a recommended course of action. The Finance Committee will review the recommendation and forward their recommendation to the full Board for approval. The Board Treasurer will execute any Board decisions regarding banking relationships. 3.3 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Coverage (FDIC) The Accountant will monitor bank balances on a continual basis to ensure FDIC coverage is maintained. If new bank accounts are needed to maintain FDIC coverage, the Finance Committee will research potential institutions and provide recommendations to the Board. The Board Treasurer will take the necessary steps to open new bank accounts and to move funding as directed by the Board. 3.4 Bank Reconciliations Bank reconciliations will be performed by the Accountant each month. Bank statements will be printed from online banking applications, if available, for reconciliation purposes. Completed bank reconciliations will be provided to the Board Treasurer for review. 3.5 Deposits Any checks or cash received will be deposited as soon as practical, but at least weekly, and recorded in the accounting system when deposited. Proof of deposit, check copies and any documentation accompanying the checks/cash will be maintained in the Finance files. 3.6 Voided Checks Every check that has been voided, regardless of reason, shall be recorded in the accounting Page 5 of 14 �system. If voided checks are physically available, they will be marked “VOID”, signature line removed and kept in the Finance files. 3.7 Petty Cash A petty cash fund may be needed for the store, events, and fundraising activities. Petty cash is used only when it is necessary to pay for small purchases and to provide an adequate amount of change where cash is accepted. A receipt or verifiable documentation must be acquired upon payment. Total petty cash funds do not exceed $500.00, except where more funds are needed for change at events. The petty cash fund must have a designated custodian responsible for that fund who is independent of the accounting department and the cash disbursement process. When necessary, the bank signers have authority to replenish the account. The custodian and the person approving replenishment of the petty cash fund cannot be the same person. Alternatively, petty cash may be replenished by depositing some cash into the petty cash account that would otherwise be deposited into the bank account. Full documentation for this deposit should be retained. The petty cash is counted and verified by two individuals using the Petty Cash Reconciliation form. The reconciliation is sent to the Accountant at the end of each month. Petty cash cannot be used for the following: • Purchases from or expenses incurred with a vendor that cannot provide an invoice or receipt. • Vendors that have an active account in the accounting system. • Employee expense reports. • Employee advances (salary, travel, or otherwise). • Any payroll-related costs or adjustments. • Inventory materials. • Anything related to taxes. • Anything related to government fees • Fixed Assets. 3.8 Credit/Prepaid Debit Cards Credit or Prepaid Debit Cards associated with OKEQ may be issued to staff and board members to be used for business-related expenditures. The Finance Committee shall determine who is authorized to have an OKEQ credit/prepaid debit card. All cards shall be under the name and federal identification number of OKEQ. It is strictly prohibited for staff to use their personal social security number to obtain a credit card in OKEQ’s name. Credit/prepaid cards shall not be used for personal charges at any time. If personal charges are made accidentally, the card holder will inform the Executive Director and immediately reimburse OKEQ. Written documentation will be kept in employee file stored within the locked storage in the office of the Executive Director. Card holders are required to submit itemized receipts each month to the Accountant for all charges monthly through the Finance Request Form. The Executive Director or Treasurer will review and approve transactions. The Accountant will enter transactions into the accounting system based on the supporting documentation provided. All policies related to purchasing also apply to transactions made by credit/prepaid debit cards, and full compliance is expected. The Page 6 of 14 �card holder can be held responsible for any transactions for which a receipt is not submitted. The card holder may be required to reimburse OKEQ for these unsubstantiated transactions. Repeated non-compliance with these requirements by a card holder will result in the loss of card privileges. Unauthorized charges or lost/stolen cards shall be immediately reported to the Executive Director so appropriate action may be taken. 3.9 Investments No funds of OKEQ shall be deposited in any name other than OKEQ, and no funds of OKEQ shall be invested without approval of the Board. The Board may approve an investment policy separate from this document. In addition, OKEQ may utilize an investment advisor. Section 4 – Accounts Receivable and Revenue Recognition 4.1 Invoicing Invoicing for grants and contracts will be prepared at the frequency and per the terms of the grant or contract. Invoices will be entered and tracked through the accounting system. Supporting documentation for any expenditures charged to a grant or contract will be maintained in the finance files along with a copy of the invoice. The Accountant will record payments on invoices when they are received. 4.2 Revenue Recognition Revenue will be recognized based on the terms of each grant or restricted funds and the appropriate GAAP revenue recognition principle. 4.3 Contribution Acknowledgement For all cash or in-kind donations of $250 or more, the contributor will receive an acknowledgement letter. All quid pro quo contributions of $75 or more will be documented as required and an acknowledgement sent to the contributor. Section 5 – Other Assets 5.1 Fixed Assets Fixed assets are defined as any piece of furniture or equipment valued at two thousand five hundred ($2,500.00) or more and having an expected useful life of greater than one year. All purchases that are classified as fixed assets will be recorded in a fixed asset records. An inventory of fixed assets will be performed at the end of each fiscal year using the fixed asset record as a guide. Assets are the property of OKEQ. Assets will be classified in the following categories with the useful life indicated below. • Furniture and Fixtures – 10 years • Computer & Electronic Equipment – 5 years • Software – 3 years 5.2 Fixed Asset Depreciation Page 7 of 14 �Depreciation will be calculated on an annual basis using the straight-line depreciation method and will be classified as an administrative expense. 5.3 Fixed Asset Disposition Fixed assets may be sold or traded-in on new equipment. Any asset that is missing or has been stolen will be reported in writing to the Board as soon as possible. The description and other pertinent information about the lost item shall be included in the report. The Board President will determine the proper course of action and will direct the notification of OKEQ’s insurance carrier and any outside authorities, if deemed necessary. If the asset is not recovered, it will be removed from the fixed asset records. Fixed assets that are deemed as unusable will be reported to the Board, disposed of properly and removed from the fixed asset records. 5.4 Prepaid Assets Any items over $1,000, such as insurance premiums, that are paid in advance and cover a future period will be classified as Prepaid Assets and amortized over the appropriate period. Section 6 – Purchasing and Payables 6.1 Open Competition All purchases must follow the approval requirements and processes outlined in this section. Goods or services costing more than five-thousand ($5,000.00) each require three bids. The supporting documents demonstrating that three bids have been obtained will be maintained in the finance files. A sole source purchase may be authorized when it is impossible or extremely impractical to obtain three bids and subject matter experts. The reason that the purchase was made as a sole source must be thoroughly documented, and the documentation must be kept in the finance files. 6.2 Approval Limits The following approval limits apply to all purchases. The limits apply to the total cost of a purchase. Purchases shall not be split in order to circumvent these limits. Whenever possible, purchases should be combined to reduce administrative burden, reduce shipping costs and/or obtain volume purchasing discounts. • • • Up to $5,000 – Executive Director $5,001 to $15,000 – Executive Committee Over $15,000 – Board approval 6.3 Contracts and Agreements Signature authority for contracts and agreements are limited to the Board Chair, Board Treasurer, and Executive Director following appropriate approval limits listed above in section 6.2. Contracts and legal documents should go through review prior to any action on them. A contract must be fully executed before payments can be made to vendors. A copy of the fully executed contract will be maintained in the finance files. Page 8 of 14 �6.4 Accounts Payable Request for invoice payment will be processed through the Finance Request Form with appropriate coding, invoice (not statements), and other supporting documents for the associated purchase. Upon submission, the Finance Request Form is routed to the Executive Director or Treasurer for approval. Once approved, the completed packet will be submitted to the Accountant to be entered into the accounting system and to be included on the weekly check run. The check run report is reviewed by the President and Treasurer. After review, the payments are disbursed by the Accountant either via paper check or electronic payment. No individual may request, approve and initiate payment. No vendor invoices will be paid from Petty Cash. All supporting documentation is maintained in the finance files. 6.5 Tax Reporting and Compliance All vendors will be required to provide Form W-9 Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification prior to payments being issued to the vendor. Backup withholding requirements, as specified by the Internal Revenue Service, will be applied, if necessary. The completed Form W9 will be maintained in the finance files. Form 1099 will be prepared and provided to vendors annually based on the Internal Revenue Service requirements in effect at the time. Section 7 – Payroll and Related Liabilities 7.1 Payroll Processing Payroll is processed on a bi-weekly basis, with payment dates on Friday. Payroll is paid via direct deposit only. Employees are responsible for tracking their time and recording actual hours worked in the designated timekeeping system. Hours entered in the timekeeping system should be approved by Supervisors. The Accountant is responsible for entering and processing payroll payments through the payroll system. Withholdings will be made from employee paychecks based on employee authorizations, Form W-4, and applicable law. 7.2 Payroll Liabilities All payroll liabilities, including federal and state taxes, will be paid as soon as practical following the end of each pay period. The Accountant is responsible for ensuring timely payment of payroll liabilities. 7.3 Payroll Reporting The Accountant is responsible for ensuring all required payroll tax returns are prepared and timely filed. W-2 Wage and Tax Statements and W-3 Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements will be prepared and distributed on an annual basis within applicable timelines established by the Internal Revenue Service. Deadlines and filing requirements will be monitored by the Accountant, and filing frequency and content will be modified, as needed. 7.4 Payroll Changes If changes need to be made in the payroll system, an Employee Change Form will be completed and signed by the employee and Executive Director. Changes in the payroll system will not be applied until all approvals are complete. The Employee Change Form will be filed in the finance Page 9 of 14 �files. Section 8 – Other Liabilities 8.1 Accruals Accruals are necessary from time to time to record costs or revenue to the appropriate accounting period. At a minimum, accruals will be prepared at fiscal year-end to ensure the accuracy of annual financial statements and/or in preparation for the annual financial audit. 8.2 Loans OKEQ prohibits loans to staff, Directors, Officers, or committee members. 8.3 Assumption of Debt The Board of Directors of OkEq shall not have the power or authority to obligate OkEq to any single capital debt exceeding $50,000 unless approved by a majority vote of the full Board of Directors and unanimous vote of all of the Trustees. The Finance Committee must review all debt agreements prior to the presentation of such agreements to the Board. The Board’s authorization to incur debt shall be documented in the minutes of the Board meetings. 8.4 Long-Term Debt Current portions of long-term debt will be included with current liabilities on the financial statements. Only the noncurrent portion of the long-term debt will be included in the long-term debt section of the financial statements. The current portion of debt is considered to be the amount of principal due to be paid over the ensuing twelve (12) month period, or any debt expected to be refinanced within the same twelve (12) month period. 8.5 Deferred Revenue Cash receipts in excess of costs incurred on conditional grants are to be reflected as Deferred Revenue and temporarily restricted net assets until they are expended for the purpose of the grant, at which time they will be considered earned and recognized as unrestricted support. Section 9 – Travel and Expense Reimbursement 9.1 Travel Expenses From time to time, staff or Board members may be approved for travel related to the business of OKEQ. All travel-related expenses must be appropriately documented and submitted through the Finance Request Form. All requests for reimbursement require approval from the Executive Director and Treasurer. 9.2 Employee Expense Reimbursement Reimbursement for other pre-approved expenses such as cell phone, business meals, supplies, and services (not an inclusive list) may be made for business purposes only. To request reimbursement a Finance Request Form is submitted along with relevant invoices, receipts, and other verifiable documentation. Page 10 of 14 �9.3 Unallowable Expenses Reimbursement will not be made for items of a personal nature or for entertainment unrelated to business purposes. The cost of entertainment may be reimbursed if such entertainment is for business purposes, with prior approval of the Executive Director or Treasurer. Page 11 of 14 �Section 10 – Financial Reporting 10.1 Review The internal control procedures built into the accounting system are designed to help safeguard the assets of the organization from loss due to error or fraud during daily operations. Finance Committee review of financial reports is an important part of these internal controls. Finance Committee review serves to test the accuracy of the recorded data and to ensure compliance with internal control procedures, as well as other established policies and procedures. 10.2 Reporting Frequency Monthly Budget versus Actual reports will be prepared monthly and provided to the Finance Committee. The reports will be based on the approved budgets in effect at the time. The Finance Committee will review the reports before they are submitted to the Board as a whole. Annual IRS Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax will be prepared annually based on finalized information for the reporting period. The completed form will be provided to Management for review prior to filing. Periodic Additional financial reporting as required by funding sources will be prepared and submitted in a timely manner to ensure compliance with the funder conditions. 10.3 Journal Entries Journal entries will be prepared on an as needed basis to ensure the accuracy of financial records. Journal entries will be prepared by Finance and appropriate supporting documentation will be maintained. 10.4 Balance Sheet Reconciliations At a minimum, all items on the balance sheet will be reconciled on a monthly basis. 10.5 Financial Audit When required, the organization will contract with an appropriate independent accounting firm to perform a financial audit. The audit will be scheduled as soon as possible after the fiscal year ends. The independent accounting firm will be re-evaluated after being contracted for three consecutive audits. Section 11 – Budgeting 11.1 Organization Budget An annual budget will be drafted by the Executive Director with assistance from the Accountant and Finance Committee. The budget will be presented to Board for review and approval prior to the beginning of the fiscal year. The Executive Director is authorized to reallocate funds among budget line items to the extent that the total budget approved by the Board is not exceeded. The Executive Director shall report any such reallocations to the Board. Page 12 of 14 �11.2 Programmatic/Grant Budgets Programmatic and grant budgets will be prepared for each funded program. Expenditures for programmatic activities will be restricted to the budget approved by the funding sponsor. Expenses charged to programmatic budgets will be made in accordance with the applicable guidance provided by the funding sponsor. 11.3 Event Budgets Fundraising and Event budgets will be prepared by the Event Chairperson with assistance from the Executive Director and Accountant. Fundraising and Event budgets will be presented to the Finance Committee for approval before spending may occur. Section 12 – Document Retention and Destruction The following document retention standards have been adopted from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The schedule reflects retention periods for specific types of documents. Notwithstanding the following, Oklahomans for Equality will adhere to any legal requirements that would supersede the retention periods outlines below. Additionally, all grant documents and related supporting documentation will be maintained for the audit look back period specified in each grant. Area Accounting Records Bank Records Corporate Records Document Type Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Audit Reports Chart of Accounts Depreciation Schedules Expense Records Financial Statements (Annual) Fixed Asset purchases General Ledger Inventory Records Loan Payment Schedules Purchase Orders (1 copy) Sales Records Tax Return Bank reconciliations Bank statements Canceled checks Electronic payment records Board Minutes Bylaws Business Licenses Retention Period 7 years 7 years Permanent Permanent Permanent 7 years Permanent Permanent Permanent 7 years 7 years 7 years 7 years Permanent 2 years 7 years 7 years 7 years Permanent Permanent Permanent Page 13 of 14 �Contracts-major Contracts-minor Insurance policies Leases/mortgages Employee Records Benefit Plans Employee files (exemployees) Employment applications Employment taxes Payroll records Pension/profit sharing plans Real Property Records Construction records Leasehold improvements Lease payment records Real estate purchases Life +4 years Life +3 years Permanent Permanent Permanent 7 years 1 years 7 years 7 years Permanent Permanent Permanent Life +4 years Permanent Documents will be destroyed by a secured destruction methodology once the specified retention period has expired. Page 14 of 14 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Oklahomans for Equality Finance Policy Manual Adopted (date) Contents Section 1 – Introduction .............................................................................................. 4 Section 2 – General Provisions .................................................................................... 4 2.1 Segregation of Duties .................................................................................. 4 2.2 Accounting Period ....................................................................................... 4 2.3 Accounting Method ..................................................................................... 4 2.4 Accounting System ...................................................................................... 4 2.5 Consistent Treatment .................................................................................. 4 2.6 Finance Committee ...................................................................................... 4 2.7 Non-Compliance .......................................................................................... 5 Section 3 – Cash, Banking and Investments ................................................................. 5 3.1 Bank Authority ........................................................................................... 5 3.2 Banking Relationships ................................................................................. 5 3.3 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Coverage (FDIC) .............................. 5 3.4 Bank Reconciliations .................................................................................... 5 3.5 Deposits ...................................................................................................... 5 3.6 Voided Checks ............................................................................................. 5 3.7 Petty Cash ................................................................................................... 6 3.8 Credit/Prepaid Debit Cards .......................................................................... 6 3.9 Investments ................................................................................................. 7 Section 4 – Accounts Receivable and Revenue Recognition ......................................... 7 4.1 Invoicing ...................................................................................................... 7 4.2 Revenue Recognition ................................................................................... 7 4.3 Contribution Acknowledgement .................................................................. 7 Section 5 – Other Assets .............................................................................................. 7 5.1 Fixed Assets ................................................................................................. 7 5.2 Fixed Asset Depreciation ............................................................................. 7 5.3 Fixed Asset Disposition ................................................................................ 8 5.4 Prepaid Assets ............................................................................................. 8 Section 6 – Purchasing and Payables ........................................................................... 8 6.1 Open Competition ....................................................................................... 8 6.2 Approval Limits ........................................................................................... 8 6.3 Contracts and Agreements .......................................................................... 8 6.4 Accounts Payable ........................................................................................ 9 6.5 Tax Reporting and Compliance .................................................................... 9 Section 7 – Payroll and Related Liabilities .................................................................... 9 7.1 Payroll Processing ........................................................................................ 9 7.2 Payroll Liabilities ......................................................................................... 9 7.3 Payroll Reporting ......................................................................................... 9 7.4 Payroll Changes ........................................................................................... 9 Page 2 of 14 Section 8 – Other Liabilities ....................................................................................... 10 8.1 Accruals ..................................................................................................... 10 8.2 Loans ......................................................................................................... 10 8.3 Assumption of Debt ................................................................................... 10 8.4 Long-Term Debt ......................................................................................... 10 8.5 Deferred Revenue ..................................................................................... 10 Section 9 – Travel and Expense Reimbursement ....................................................... 10 9.1 Travel Expenses ......................................................................................... 10 9.2 Employee Expense Reimbursement ........................................................... 10 9.3 Unallowable Expenses ............................................................................... 11 Section 10 – Financial Reporting ................................................................................ 12 10.1 Review ..................................................................................................... 12 10.2 Reporting Frequency ............................................................................... 12 10.3 Journal Entries ......................................................................................... 12 10.4 Balance Sheet Reconciliations .................................................................. 12 10.5 Financial Audit ......................................................................................... 12 Section 11 – Budgeting .............................................................................................. 12 11.1 Organization Budget ................................................................................ 12 11.2 Programmatic/Grant Budgets .................................................................. 13 11.3 Event Budgets .......................................................................................... 13 Section 12 – Document Retention and Destruction ................................................... 13 Page 3 of 14 Section 1 – Introduction Oklahomans for Equality, hereinafter referred to as “OKEQ” is a tax-exempt organization pursuant to Internal Revenue Code §501(c)(3). The mission of OkEq is to seek equal rights for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Ace, and plus (2SLGBTQIA+) individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. This manual contains the internal controls and financial management standards used by OKEQ to safeguard all assets and ensure that they are used solely for authorized purposes. All Board of Directors, employees and/or contractors have a responsibility to utilize the organization’s assets in the most efficient manner possible and to guard against loss of the organization’s assets whether due to error or fraud. It is important that these internal controls are observed to maintain the highest level of fiscal integrity and accountability. Management, including but not limited to the Board of Directors (the Board), will have the responsibility for interpretation of these policies. All questions regarding financial policy should be directed to the Finance Committee. Section 2 – General Provisions 2.1 Segregation of Duties Proper segregation of duties shall be maintained at all times in order to safeguard the assets of the organization. No single individual shall have the authority to both request and approve the disbursement or obligation of funds. The Board and the Finance Committee are charged with general oversight of the finance function and will be provided periodic financial reports to facilitate this duty. 2.2 Accounting Period The accounting period of OKEQ is October 1 thru September 30. 2.3 Accounting Method OKEQ will utilize the accrual method of accounting, in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). 2.4 Accounting System OKEQ will use an ERP accounting system that includes the capability to segregate activity by funding source. Within this accounting system, a chart of accounts will be established that ensures proper classification of activity by account type and in alignment with line items included in approved budgets. 2.5 Consistent Treatment All financial policies and procedures shall be applied consistently across all funding sources and across all funding periods. 2.6 Finance Committee Page 4 of 14 An integral part of the internal controls outlined in this document is the existence of a Finance Committee that reports to the Board. The Finance Committee will be chaired by the Treasurer. Other members of the Board and/or community members may be appointed to the committee by the Treasurer. 2.7 Non-Compliance Compliance with this policy is mandatory. No employee has the authority to act contrary to the provisions of this policy or to authorize, direct, or condone violations of it by any other employee or by any representative of OkEq. Any employee who has knowledge of facts or incidents which is to be believed in violation of this policy has an obligation, promptly after learning of such fact or incident, to review the matter with Executive Director or someone from the Executive Committee. Section 3 – Cash, Banking and Investments 3.1 Bank Authority Bank Signers should be voted by the board and be limited to three elected members of the Executive Committee. Upon approval of the Board, changes to the authorized signers will be communicated to the banking institution by a member of the Finance Committee. . [sic] 3.2 Banking Relationships Banking relationships will be reviewed every two years by the Finance Committee to ensure competitive interest rates are being received, determine if alternate banking products have become more suitable, and make sure fees and charges are reasonable. The results of any review of banking relationships will be provided to the Finance Committee along with a recommended course of action. The Finance Committee will review the recommendation and forward their recommendation to the full Board for approval. The Board Treasurer will execute any Board decisions regarding banking relationships. 3.3 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Coverage (FDIC) The Accountant will monitor bank balances on a continual basis to ensure FDIC coverage is maintained. If new bank accounts are needed to maintain FDIC coverage, the Finance Committee will research potential institutions and provide recommendations to the Board. The Board Treasurer will take the necessary steps to open new bank accounts and to move funding as directed by the Board. 3.4 Bank Reconciliations Bank reconciliations will be performed by the Accountant each month. Bank statements will be printed from online banking applications, if available, for reconciliation purposes. Completed bank reconciliations will be provided to the Board Treasurer for review. 3.5 Deposits Any checks or cash received will be deposited as soon as practical, but at least weekly, and recorded in the accounting system when deposited. Proof of deposit, check copies and any documentation accompanying the checks/cash will be maintained in the Finance files. 3.6 Voided Checks Every check that has been voided, regardless of reason, shall be recorded in the accounting system. If voided checks are physically available, they will be marked “VOID”, signature line removed and kept in the Finance files. Page 5 of 14 3.7 Petty Cash A petty cash fund may be needed for the store, events, and fundraising activities. Petty cash is used only when it is necessary to pay for small purchases and to provide an adequate amount of change where cash is accepted. A receipt or verifiable documentation must be acquired upon payment. Total petty cash funds do not exceed $500.00, except where more funds are needed for change at events. The petty cash fund must have a designated custodian responsible for that fund who is independent of the accounting department and the cash disbursement process. When necessary, the bank signers have authority to replenish the account. The custodian and the person approving replenishment of the petty cash fund cannot be the same person. Alternatively, petty cash may be replenished by depositing some cash into the petty cash account that would otherwise be deposited into the bank account. Full documentation for this deposit should be retained. The petty cash is counted and verified by two individuals using the Petty Cash Reconciliation form. The reconciliation is sent to the Accountant at the end of each month. Petty cash cannot be used for the following: • Purchases from or expenses incurred with a vendor that cannot provide an invoice or receipt. • Vendors that have an active account in the accounting system. • Employee expense reports. • Employee advances (salary, travel, or otherwise). • Any payroll-related costs or adjustments. • Inventory materials. • Anything related to taxes. • Anything related to government fees • Fixed Assets. 3.8 Credit/Prepaid Debit Cards Credit or Prepaid Debit Cards associated with OKEQ may be issued to staff and board members to be used for business-related expenditures. The Finance Committee shall determine who is authorized to have an OKEQ credit/prepaid debit card. All cards shall be under the name and federal identification number of OKEQ. It is strictly prohibited for staff to use their personal social security number to obtain a credit card in OKEQ’s name. Credit/prepaid cards shall not be used for personal charges at any time. If personal charges are made accidentally, the card holder will inform the Executive Director and immediately reimburse OKEQ. Written documentation will be kept in employee file stored within the locked storage in the office of the Executive Director. Card holders are required to submit itemized receipts each month to the Accountant for all charges monthly through the Finance Request Form. The Executive Director or Treasurer will review and approve transactions. The Accountant will enter transactions into the accounting system based on the supporting documentation provided. All policies related to purchasing also apply to transactions made by credit/prepaid debit cards, and full compliance is expected. The card holder can be held responsible for any transactions for which a receipt is not submitted. The card holder may be required to reimburse OKEQ for these unsubstantiated transactions. Page 6 of 14 Repeated non-compliance with these requirements by a card holder will result in the loss of card privileges. Unauthorized charges or lost/stolen cards shall be immediately reported to the Executive Director so appropriate action may be taken. 3.9 Investments No funds of OKEQ shall be deposited in any name other than OKEQ, and no funds of OKEQ shall be invested without approval of the Board. The Board may approve an investment policy separate from this document. In addition, OKEQ may utilize an investment advisor. Section 4 – Accounts Receivable and Revenue Recognition 4.1 Invoicing Invoicing for grants and contracts will be prepared at the frequency and per the terms of the grant or contract. Invoices will be entered and tracked through the accounting system. Supporting documentation for any expenditures charged to a grant or contract will be maintained in the finance files along with a copy of the invoice. The Accountant will record payments on invoices when they are received. 4.2 Revenue Recognition Revenue will be recognized based on the terms of each grant or restricted funds and the appropriate GAAP revenue recognition principle. 4.3 Contribution Acknowledgement For all cash or in-kind donations of $250 or more, the contributor will receive an acknowledgement letter. All quid pro quo contributions of $75 or more will be documented as required and an acknowledgement sent to the contributor. Section 5 – Other Assets 5.1 Fixed Assets Fixed assets are defined as any piece of furniture or equipment valued at two thousand five hundred ($2,500.00) or more and having an expected useful life of greater than one year. All purchases that are classified as fixed assets will be recorded in a fixed asset records. An inventory of fixed assets will be performed at the end of each fiscal year using the fixed asset record as a guide. Assets are the property of OKEQ. Assets will be classified in the following categories with the useful life indicated below. • Furniture and Fixtures – 10 years • Computer & Electronic Equipment – 5 years • Software – 3 years 5.2 Fixed Asset Depreciation Page 7 of 14 Depreciation will be calculated on an annual basis using the straight-line depreciation method and will be classified as an administrative expense. 5.3 Fixed Asset Disposition Fixed assets may be sold or traded-in on new equipment. Any asset that is missing or has been stolen will be reported in writing to the Board as soon as possible. The description and other pertinent information about the lost item shall be included in the report. The Board President will determine the proper course of action and will direct the notification of OKEQ’s insurance carrier and any outside authorities, if deemed necessary. If the asset is not recovered, it will be removed from the fixed asset records. Fixed assets that are deemed as unusable will be reported to the Board, disposed of properly and removed from the fixed asset records. 5.4 Prepaid Assets Any items over $1,000, such as insurance premiums, that are paid in advance and cover a future period will be classified as Prepaid Assets and amortized over the appropriate period. Section 6 – Purchasing and Payables 6.1 Open Competition All purchases must follow the approval requirements and processes outlined in this section. Goods or services costing more than five-thousand ($5,000.00) each require three bids. The supporting documents demonstrating that three bids have been obtained will be maintained in the finance files. A sole source purchase may be authorized when it is impossible or extremely impractical to obtain three bids and subject matter experts. The reason that the purchase was made as a sole source must be thoroughly documented, and the documentation must be kept in the finance files. 6.2 Approval Limits The following approval limits apply to all purchases. The limits apply to the total cost of a purchase. Purchases shall not be split in order to circumvent these limits. Whenever possible, purchases should be combined to reduce administrative burden, reduce shipping costs and/or obtain volume purchasing discounts. • Up to $5,000 – Executive Director • $5,001 to $15,000 – Executive Committee • Over $15,000 – Board approval 6.3 Contracts and Agreements Signature authority for contracts and agreements are limited to the Board Chair, Board Treasurer, and Executive Director following appropriate approval limits listed above in section 6.2. Contracts and legal documents should go through review prior to any action on them. A contract must be fully executed before payments can be made to vendors. A copy of the fully executed contract will be maintained in the finance files. Page 8 of 14 6.4 Accounts Payable Request for invoice payment will be processed through the Finance Request Form with appropriate coding, invoice (not statements), and other supporting documents for the associated purchase. Upon submission, the Finance Request Form is routed to the Executive Director or Treasurer for approval. Once approved, the completed packet will be submitted to the Accountant to be entered into the accounting system and to be included on the weekly check run. The check run report is reviewed by the President and Treasurer. After review, the payments are disbursed by the Accountant either via paper check or electronic payment. No individual may request, approve and initiate payment. No vendor invoices will be paid from Petty Cash. All supporting documentation is maintained in the finance files. 6.5 Tax Reporting and Compliance All vendors will be required to provide Form W-9 Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification prior to payments being issued to the vendor. Backup withholding requirements, as specified by the Internal Revenue Service, will be applied, if necessary. The completed Form W9 will be maintained in the finance files. Form 1099 will be prepared and provided to vendors annually based on the Internal Revenue Service requirements in effect at the time. Section 7 – Payroll and Related Liabilities 7.1 Payroll Processing Payroll is processed on a bi-weekly basis, with payment dates on Friday. Payroll is paid via direct deposit only. Employees are responsible for tracking their time and recording actual hours worked in the designated timekeeping system. Hours entered in the timekeeping system should be approved by Supervisors. The Accountant is responsible for entering and processing payroll payments through the payroll system. Withholdings will be made from employee paychecks based on employee authorizations, Form W-4, and applicable law. 7.2 Payroll Liabilities All payroll liabilities, including federal and state taxes, will be paid as soon as practical following the end of each pay period. The Accountant is responsible for ensuring timely payment of payroll liabilities. 7.3 Payroll Reporting The Accountant is responsible for ensuring all required payroll tax returns are prepared and timely filed. W-2 Wage and Tax Statements and W-3 Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements will be prepared and distributed on an annual basis within applicable timelines established by the Internal Revenue Service. Deadlines and filing requirements will be monitored by the Accountant, and filing frequency and content will be modified, as needed. 7.4 Payroll Changes If changes need to be made in the payroll system, an Employee Change Form will be completed and signed by the employee and Executive Director. Changes in the payroll system will not be applied until all approvals are complete. The Employee Change Form will be filed in the finance files. Page 9 of 14 Section 8 – Other Liabilities 8.1 Accruals Accruals are necessary from time to time to record costs or revenue to the appropriate accounting period. At a minimum, accruals will be prepared at fiscal year-end to ensure the accuracy of annual financial statements and/or in preparation for the annual financial audit. 8.2 Loans OKEQ prohibits loans to staff, Directors, Officers, or committee members. 8.3 Assumption of Debt The Board of Directors of OkEq shall not have the power or authority to obligate OkEq to any single capital debt exceeding $50,000 unless approved by a majority vote of the full Board of Directors and unanimous vote of all of the Trustees. The Finance Committee must review all debt agreements prior to the presentation of such agreements to the Board. The Board’s authorization to incur debt shall be documented in the minutes of the Board meetings. 8.4 Long-Term Debt Current portions of long-term debt will be included with current liabilities on the financial statements. Only the noncurrent portion of the long-term debt will be included in the long-term debt section of the financial statements. The current portion of debt is considered to be the amount of principal due to be paid over the ensuing twelve (12) month period, or any debt expected to be refinanced within the same twelve (12) month period. 8.5 Deferred Revenue Cash receipts in excess of costs incurred on conditional grants are to be reflected as Deferred Revenue and temporarily restricted net assets until they are expended for the purpose of the grant, at which time they will be considered earned and recognized as unrestricted support. Section 9 – Travel and Expense Reimbursement 9.1 Travel Expenses From time to time, staff or Board members may be approved for travel related to the business of OKEQ. All travel-related expenses must be appropriately documented and submitted through the Finance Request Form. All requests for reimbursement require approval from the Executive Director and Treasurer. 9.2 Employee Expense Reimbursement Reimbursement for other pre-approved expenses such as cell phone, business meals, supplies, and services (not an inclusive list) may be made for business purposes only. To request reimbursement a Finance Request Form is submitted along with relevant invoices, receipts, and other verifiable documentation. Page 10 of 14 9.3 Unallowable Expenses Reimbursement will not be made for items of a personal nature or for entertainment unrelated to business purposes. The cost of entertainment may be reimbursed if such entertainment is for business purposes, with prior approval of the Executive Director or Treasurer. Page 11 of 14 Section 10 – Financial Reporting 10.1 Review The internal control procedures built into the accounting system are designed to help safeguard the assets of the organization from loss due to error or fraud during daily operations. Finance Committee review of financial reports is an important part of these internal controls. Finance Committee review serves to test the accuracy of the recorded data and to ensure compliance with internal control procedures, as well as other established policies and procedures. 10.2 Reporting Frequency Monthly Budget versus Actual reports will be prepared monthly and provided to the Finance Committee. The reports will be based on the approved budgets in effect at the time. The Finance Committee will review the reports before they are submitted to the Board as a whole. Annual IRS Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax will be prepared annually based on finalized information for the reporting period. The completed form will be provided to Management for review prior to filing. Periodic Additional financial reporting as required by funding sources will be prepared and submitted in a timely manner to ensure compliance with the funder conditions. 10.3 Journal Entries Journal entries will be prepared on an as needed basis to ensure the accuracy of financial records. Journal entries will be prepared by Finance and appropriate supporting documentation will be maintained. 10.4 Balance Sheet Reconciliations At a minimum, all items on the balance sheet will be reconciled on a monthly basis. 10.5 Financial Audit When required, the organization will contract with an appropriate independent accounting firm to perform a financial audit. The audit will be scheduled as soon as possible after the fiscal year ends. The independent accounting firm will be re-evaluated after being contracted for three consecutive audits. Section 11 – Budgeting 11.1 Organization Budget An annual budget will be drafted by the Executive Director with assistance from the Accountant and Finance Committee. The budget will be presented to Board for review and approval prior to the beginning of the fiscal year. The Executive Director is authorized to reallocate funds among budget line items to the extent that the total budget approved by the Board is not exceeded. The Executive Director shall report any such reallocations to the Board. Page 12 of 14 11.2 Programmatic/Grant Budgets Programmatic and grant budgets will be prepared for each funded program. Expenditures for programmatic activities will be restricted to the budget approved by the funding sponsor. Expenses charged to programmatic budgets will be made in accordance with the applicable guidance provided by the funding sponsor. 11.3 Event Budgets Fundraising and Event budgets will be prepared by the Event Chairperson with assistance from the Executive Director and Accountant. Fundraising and Event budgets will be presented to the Finance Committee for approval before spending may occur. Section 12 – Document Retention and Destruction The following document retention standards have been adopted from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The schedule reflects retention periods for specific types of documents. Notwithstanding the following, Oklahomans for Equality will adhere to any legal requirements that would supersede the retention periods outlines below. Additionally, all grant documents and related supporting documentation will be maintained for the audit look back period specified in each grant. Area Document Type Retention Period Accounting Records Accounts Payable 7 years Accounts Receivable 7 years Audit Reports Permanent Chart of Accounts Permanent Depreciation Schedules Permanent Expense Records 7 years Financial Statements (Annual) Permanent Fixed Asset purchases Permanent General Ledger Permanent Inventory Records 7 years Loan Payment Schedules 7 years Purchase Orders (1 copy) 7 years Sales Records 7 years Tax Return Permanent Bank Records Bank reconciliations 2 years Bank statements 7 years Canceled checks 7 years Electronic payment records 7 years Corporate Records Board Minutes Permanent Bylaws Permanent Business Licenses Permanent Page 13 of 14 Contracts-major Life +4 years Contracts-minor Life +3 years Insurance policies Permanent Leases/mortgages Permanent Employee Records Benefit Plans Permanent Employee files (exemployees) 7 years Employment applications 1 years Employment taxes 7 years Payroll records 7 years Pension/profit sharing plans Permanent Real Property Records Construction records Permanent Leasehold improvements Permanent Lease payment records Life +4 years Real estate purchases Permanent Documents will be destroyed by a secured destruction methodology once the specified retention period has expired. Page 14 of 14 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [ND] OKEQ Finance Policy Manual Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Finance Policy Manual Description An account of the resource 14 pages of an undated copy of an Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) finance policy manual. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/69ffbd3173a19891e4e35ec57b1a1985.pdf ba216b5df64947e913e202bd9852526f PDF Text Text OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY Finance Report June 2024 unaudited �Oklahoman's for Equality Cash Position As of June 2024 Current Cash Balance Accounts Receivable (Less: Restricted Grants/Funds) (Less: Affiliate/Chapters) Available Unrestricted Funds $ $ 513,427 (5,780) (5,958) 501,689 Restricted Grants/Funds As of June 2024 Balance Grant/Activity Name SAGE USA History Project Coordinator Rainbow Library Van Insurance SAGE-Support Group Total Restricted Grants 612.73 2,880.01 294.47 1,953.00 40.00 5,780 Affiliate Balances As of June 2024 Group Name Balance Green Country Bears SEQ McAlester Chapter Tulsa2Spirit Society Total Affiliates/Chapters 640.21 1,793.83 3,523.89 5,957.93 �Oklahoman's for Equality Budget vs Actual October 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 Budget Actual Revenue Grant Revenue Contributions Clinic Services Pride Store (Net) Bar/Concession (Net) Art Gallery Event/Shows Ticket Sales Event/Kitchen Rental EBA/OKEQ Memberships Equality Gala Pride Festival & Bingo Misc Income Investment Income Total Revenue 266,000 277,600 70,000 10,000 20,000 500 25,000 25,000 10,000 350,000 15,000 1,069,100 249,700 269,628 52,934 7,448 11,915 95 7,565 23,220 6,014 417,105 12,246 10 1,057,879 Expenditures Salaries & Wages Payroll Taxes and Benefits IT Software/Equipment Accounting & Legal Fees Audt & 990 Fees HR Consultant Other Contract Services Storage Insurance-Liability & Cyber Insurance-D&O Insurance-Workers Comp Insurance-Property Insurance-Clinic Insurance-Van Utilities/Phone Office expenses Cleaning & supplies Repairs & Maintenance 350,000 50,000 30,000 26,400 6,600 9,000 28,750 5,000 8,000 2,200 2,500 12,000 1,500 3,000 43,000 20,000 26,000 30,000 281,783 56,099 18,785 18,350 5,800 6,750 15,149 3,313 5,291 1,738 2,655 8,036 811 2,034 22,413 25,701 15,828 26,777 �Oklahoman's for Equality Budget vs Actual October 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 Budget Actual Expenditures Cont. Business Licenses & Permits Memberships and Subscriptions Marketing and Advertising Security (excluding Pride) Clinic Supplies & Lab Other Program Expenses Library Materials Event Expenses (excl Pride and G Non-Cap Equipment Vehicle Expenses Meals & Entertainment Travel Transaction Fees (excl Pride and G Bank Fees & Charges Gala Expenses Pride Festival & Bingo Total Expenditures 13,500 1,000 2,500 20,000 15,875 5,000 1,200 25,000 3,000 1,500 5,000 3,000 16,000 1,625 125,000 893,150 6,723 1,198 85 15,718 8,997 1,247 1,361 8,009 3,180 124 3,158 2,879 11,052 1,209 66,755 2,538 651,543 Release of Restriction to Gala Net Revenue over Expenses 175,950 (25,000) 381,336 �Oklahoman's for Equality Gala 2024 As of 06/30/24 Revenue Sponsorships Contributions Tickets Raffle Auction Live Ask Total Revenue Actual 364,750 29,055 23,300 417,105 Expenditures Cox Business IT Costs Printing Advertising/Marketing Entertainers Other Event Costs Transaction Fees Total Expenditures 48,001 1,200 6,350 7,321 3,883 66,755 Revenue over Expenses 350,350 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY Finance Report June 2024 unaudited Oklahoman's [sic] for Equality Cash Position As of June 2024 Current Cash Balance $ 513,427 Accounts Receivable - (Less: Restricted Grants/Funds) (5,780) (Less: Affiliate/Chapters) (5,958) Available Unrestricted Funds $ 501,689 Restricted Grants/Funds As of June 2024 Balance Grant/Activity Name SAGE USA 612.73 History Project Coordinator 2,880.01 Rainbow Library 294.47 Van Insurance 1,953.00 SAGE-Support Group 40.00 Total Restricted Grants 5,780 Affiliate Balances As of June 2024 Group Name Balance Green Country Bears 640.21 SEQ McAlester Chapter 1,793.83 Tulsa2Spirit Society 3,523.89 Total Affiliates/Chapters 5,957.93 Oklahoman's for Equality Budget vs Actual October 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 Budget Actual Revenue Grant Revenue 266,000 249,700 Contributions 277,600 269,628 Clinic Services 70,000 52,934 Pride Store (Net) 10,000 7,448 Bar/Concession (Net) 20,000 11,915 Art Gallery 500 95 Event/Shows Ticket Sales 25,000 7,565 Event/Kitchen Rental 25,000 23,220 EBA/OKEQ Memberships 10,000 6,014 Equality Gala 350,000 417,105 Pride Festival & Bingo 15,000 12,246 Misc Income - 10 Investment Income - - Total Revenue 1,069,100 1,057,879 Expenditures Salaries & Wages 350,000 281,783 Payroll Taxes and Benefits 50,000 56,099 IT Software/Equipment 30,000 18,785 Accounting & Legal Fees 26,400 18,350 Audt & 990 Fees 6,600 5,800 HR Consultant 9,000 6,750 Other Contract Services 28,750 15,149 Storage 5,000 3,313 Insurance-Liability & Cyber 8,000 5,291 Insurance-D&O 2,200 1,738 Insurance-Workers Comp 2,500 2,655 Insurance-Property 12,000 8,036 Insurance-Clinic 1,500 811 Insurance-Van 3,000 2,034 Utilities/Phone 43,000 22,413 Office expenses 20,000 25,701 Cleaning & supplies 26,000 15,828 Repairs & Maintenance 30,000 26,777 Oklahoman's for Equality Budget vs Actual October 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 Budget Actual Expenditures Cont. Business Licenses & Permits 13,500 6,723 Memberships and Subscriptions 1,000 1,198 Marketing and Advertising 2,500 85 Security (excluding Pride) 20,000 15,718 Clinic Supplies & Lab 15,875 8,997 Other Program Expenses 5,000 1,247 Library Materials 1,200 1,361 Event Expenses (excl Pride and G 25,000 8,009 Non-Cap Equipment 3,000 3,180 Vehicle Expenses 1,500 124 Meals & Entertainment 5,000 3,158 Travel 3,000 2,879 Transaction Fees (excl Pride and G 16,000 11,052 Bank Fees & Charges 1,625 1,209 Gala Expenses 125,000 66,755 Pride Festival & Bingo - 2,538 Total Expenditures 893,150 651,543 Release of Restriction to Gala (25,000) Net Revenue over Expenses 175,950 381,336 Oklahoman's for Equality Gala 2024 As of 06/30/24 Actual Revenue Sponsorships 364,750 Contributions 29,055 Tickets 23,300 Raffle - Auction - Live Ask - Total Revenue 417,105 Expenditures Cox Business 48,001 IT Costs 1,200 Printing 6,350 Advertising/Marketing - Entertainers - Other Event Costs 7,321 Transaction Fees 3,883 Total Expenditures 66,755 Revenue over Expenses 350,350 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] OKEQ June 2024 Unaudited Finance Report Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality Finance Report for June 2024, Unaudited Description An account of the resource 5 pages of the Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) finance report for the month of June 2024. Includes the organization's cash position, restricted grants/funds, affiliate balances, budget vs. actual, and Equality Gala revenue over expenses. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 30, 2024 2024 budget budgeting Equality Gala Equality Gala 2024 Financial financial reports gala grants OkEq OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/733d98a328ae3b423369c8c3e911e246.pdf 75cd536c6ac433fa28264c1141a38f7d PDF Text Text FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND ACCOMPANYING INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE Board of Directors .............................................................................................................................. 3 Independent Auditor’s Report ......................................................................................................... 4-5 Financial Statements Statement of Financial Position ............................................................................................ 6 Statement of Activities ......................................................................................................... 7 Statement of Functional Expenses ........................................................................................ 8 Statement of Cash Flows....................................................................................................... 9 Notes to the Financial Statements ................................................................................. 10-15 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Eric Wilson Bob Hanson Julie Chase Whitney Cipolla Liz Ortiz Eddie Carreno Claire Combs Kaylyn Compton Julia Fletcher Kylie Vanderslice Crista Patrick Paula Shannon Monique Washington Zoe Brett Kristy Vann President Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member Member at large 3 �124 S. Main Street, Miami, Oklahoma 74354 22 South Adair, Pryor, Oklahoma 74361 918-542-4401 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT Senior Management and Board of Directors Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma OPINION We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statement of financial position as of September 30, 2023, and the related statements of activities, statement of functional expenses, and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. as of September 30, 2023, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. BASIS FOR OPINION We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of the Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions. RESPONSIBILITIES OF MANAGEMENT FOR THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.'s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued. AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, 4 �To the Board of Directors Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Page 2 individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements. In performing an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, we:  Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.  Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.  Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.  Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time. We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit. OBER & LITTLEFIELD Certified Public Accountants, PLLC Miami, Oklahoma December 22, 2023 5 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents - restricted Investments held by others Promises to give Inventory Prepaid insurance Total Current Assets $ Noncurrent Assets: Furniture and Fixtures Buildings and Improvements Computers and Software Less: Accumulated Depreciation Total Noncurrent Assets Total Assets $ Liabilities Current Liabilities: Accounts payable Accrued expenses Deferred revenue Payroll tax payable Total Liabilities $ Net Assets Net assets without donor restrictions Net assets with donor restrictions Total Net Assets 80,446.42 97,766.15 43,994.38 22,690.07 13,004.85 19,590.23 277,492.10 134,098.46 2,013,376.54 15,080.30 (944,137.42) 1,218,417.88 1,495,909.98 27,000.36 32,186.42 1,723.75 856.31 61,766.84 1,336,376.99 97,766.15 1,434,143.14 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 1,495,909.98 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Without Donor With Donor Restriction Restriction Total Revenues, gains, and other support Support: Grants - federal and state $ 20,275.00 $ - $ 20,275.00 Grants 284,422.57 25,500.00 309,922.57 Contributions 213,182.27 163,300.41 376,482.68 Membership income 18,891.05 - 18,891.05 Sponsorship 184,589.10 - 184,589.10 Other Income 293,140.47 - 293,140.47 Total Support 1,014,500.46 188,800.41 Net assets released from restrictions 191,619.00 (191,619.00) Total support 1,206,119.46 (2,818.59) 1,203,300.87 1,203,300.87 Revenues and gains/(losses): Unrealized gain/(loss) on investment 2,462.20 - 2,462.20 Total revenue and gains/(losses) 2,462.20 - 2,462.20 Total revenues, gains/(losses), and other support 1,208,581.66 (2,818.59) 1,205,763.07 792,989.54 - 792,989.54 Support Services: Fundraising 48,454.12 - 48,454.12 Support Services: General and Administrative 345,035.04 - 345,035.04 Total expenses 1,186,478.70 - 1,186,478.70 Increase (decrease) in net assets 22,102.96 (2,818.59) 19,284.37 Net assets, beginning of year 1,314,274.03 100,584.74 1,414,858.77 97,766.15 $ 1,434,143.14 EXPENSES: Program Services Net assets, end of year $ 1,336,376.99 $ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 7 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF FUNCTIONAL EXPENSES FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Program Advertising $ Fundraising 893.20 $ 2,676.00 General & Admin $ 731.00 $ 4,300.20 Bank Fees 12,184.15 Chapter and Affiliate Expense 59,601.61 Computer and Software 7,728.71 Contracted Services 33,892.50 3,813.75 Cost of Goods Sold 34,681.62 - - 34,681.62 Dues, Fees and Registrations 5,057.37 - 3,906.63 8,964.00 Employee benefits 7,563.47 1,747.68 1,537.53 10,848.68 Event expense 101,344.65 2,668.97 - 104,013.62 Insurance 16,561.48 - 24,184.68 40,746.16 - 70.99 70.99 Interest Expense 5,373.62 Total - 2,333.28 19,891.05 - - 59,601.61 5,546.20 710.02 13,984.93 11,419.25 49,125.50 Lab Services 12,056.75 - - 12,056.75 Meals 1,995.94 - 2,254.65 4,250.59 Miscellaneous 877.31 - 2,565.07 3,442.38 Office/Postage Expense 1,691.66 - 796.93 2,488.59 Payroll tax expense 15,858.58 1,381.76 9,226.83 26,467.17 Performance Expense 46,093.70 - - 46,093.70 Printing/Copying Expense 4,210.95 897.89 1,332.13 6,440.97 Professional Services 25,769.75 370.00 81,788.65 107,928.40 Rental Expense 2,800.91 - Repairs and Maintenance 15,261.29 - Salaries and Wages 209,012.54 Security 61,080.00 Staff and Board Development - 18,204.98 - 2,800.91 12,123.08 27,384.37 121,565.61 348,783.13 - 2,185.85 63,265.85 495.00 - 495.00 Supplies 18,979.31 5,278.27 10,023.26 34,280.84 Travel Expense 1,930.50 - 2,291.71 4,222.21 Utilities Expense 31,681.33 - 12,207.52 43,888.85 Total Expenses Before Depreciation 728,809.28 303,254.67 1,080,518.07 Depreciation 64,180.26 41,780.37 105,960.63 Total Expenses $ 792,989.54 48,454.12 $ 48,454.12 $ 345,035.04 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 8 $ 1,186,478.70 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Cash flows from operating activities Change in net assets Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation expense Unrealized gain on investments (Increase)/decrease in operating assets: Promises to give Inventory Prepaid expenses Increase/(decrease) in operating liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued expenses Unearned revenue Net cash provided/(used) by operating activities $ 19,284.37 105,960.63 (2,444.51) (22,690.07) 2,696.63 (19,590.23) 19,053.41 1,723.75 103,993.98 Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property and equipment Net cash provided/(used) by investing activities Net increase/(decrease) in cash Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents, end of year (24,021.91) (24,021.91) $ 79,972.07 98,240.50 178,212.57 Reconciliation to statement of financial position: Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash $ $ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 9 80,446.42 97,766.15 178,212.57 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 1 – Nature of the Organization The Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (the “Organization”), is an Oklahoma nonprofit corporation, incorporated on November 20th, 2006. Oklahomans for Equality, Inc., formerly known as Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights (TOHR), have served the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community since the organization was founded in 1980. The Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. seeks equal rights for LGBT individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Accounting – The financial statements are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting. Accordingly, revenue is recorded when earned, and expenses are recorded when incurred. The financial statements are presented in accordance with authoritative accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. As such, the standards require contributions to be recognized as revenue when they are received, or unconditionally pledged, and net assets to be classified as net assets with donor restrictions or net assets without donor restrictions, depending on the limitations placed on the contributions when received. Income Taxes – The Organization is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, no provision has been made for federal or state income taxes. In addition, the Organization has been determined by the Internal Revenue Service not to be a private foundation, within the meaning of Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Organization’s Forms 990, Organization Exempt from Income Tax, for the years ending 2020, 2021, and 2022 are subject to examination by the IRS, generally for three years after they were filed. Estimates – The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates, and assumptions, that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents include all monies in banks, and highly liquid investments, with maturity dates of less than twelve months. The carrying value of cash, and cash equivalents, approximates fair value because of the short maturities of those financial instruments. Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk – Financial instruments that potentially expose the Organization to concentrations of credit, and market risk consist primarily of cash equivalents and investments. Cash equivalents are maintained at high-quality financial institutions, and credit risk exposure is limited at any one institution. The Organization has not experienced any losses on its cash equivalents. Property and Equipment – Property and equipment are recorded at acquisition cost. The Organization capitalizes assets with a cost greater than $2,500. Betterments and renewals are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations when incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method, over the following estimated useful lives: Building and improvements Equipment Vehicles 40 years 3-10 years 3 years 10 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued) Classification of Net Assets - Net assets of the Organization shall be classified based upon the existence, or absence, of donor-imposed restrictions, as follows: Net Assets without Donor Restrictions - Net assets that are not subject to donor-imposed stipulations. Net Assets with Donor Restrictions - Net assets subject to donor-imposed stipulations that may, or will be, satisfied through the actions of the Organization, and/or the passage of time. Net assets accumulated by the Organization that are not subject to donor-imposed restrictions, but which the Board of Directors of the Organization has earmarked for specific uses, shall be segregated in the accounting records as "board-designated" funds, within the category of net assets without donor restrictions. Note 3 – Concentrations of Credit Risk Custodial credit risk is the risk that, in the event of a bank failure, the Organization’s deposits may not be returned to it. The Organization’s cash deposits, including interest-bearing certificates of deposit, are maintained in financial institutions. The Organization does not currently have a deposit policy for custodial credit risk. Demand deposits Total $ $ A 178,212.57 178,212.57 Category B $ $ - C $ $ - Carrying Amount $ 178,212.57 $ 178,212.57 Bank Balance $ 176,816.18 $ 176,816.18 Category 1 – Cash and cash equivalents that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or collateralized with securities held by the Organization, or its agent, in the Organization’s name. Category 2 – Collateralized with securities held by the pledging financial institution’s trust department, or agent, in the Organization’s name. Category 3 – Uninsured or unregistered investments for which securities are held by the pledging financial institution’s trust department, or agent, but not in the Organization’s name. The Organization maintains investment accounts with the Tulsa Community Foundation. The balances are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), up to $500,000. Cash coverage is limited at $250,000. The Organization as not exceeded these insurance amounts. Management believes the funds are not exposed to any significant risk due to the diversity of high-grade financial instruments held by the fund and management’s routine assessment of the portfolio. As of September 30, 2023, none of the Organization’s deposits were exposed to credit risk. Note 4 – Promises to Give Promises to give are majorly comprised of contributions made to third parties on behalf of the Organization prior to yearend. These funds were received by the Organization after September 30, 2023. 11 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 5 – Restricted Cash As of September 30, 2023, the Organization had restricted cash in the amount of $97,766.15. Restricted as follows: Restricted Purpose Chapter and Affiliates Center link technology Counseling Services Senior Support Services 2024 Gala Various >$2K Total $ $ Amount 66,326.83 9,500.00 5,000.00 1,240.00 11,500.00 4,199.32 97,766.15 Note 6 – Investments Held by Others Investments held by others, as of September 30, 2023, consist of two investment funds held by Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF): The OkEq Operating Endowment Fund and the OkEq Capital Campaign Fund. These funds are invested in pooled funds, cash, and equivalents. The investments are carried on the Organization’s books at fair market value. These funds are component funds of Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF). As defined by the United States Treasury Regulations, TCF has the right to modify the terms of the fund agreement. This is sometimes referred to as “variance power”. As a result of the variance power all component funds are considered to be part of a single public charity, TCF. TCF is the legal owner of all assets contributed to any of its component funds. Financial Accounting Standards Board requires that if TCF accepts contributions from the Organization and agrees to transfer those assets and the return on investment of those assets back to the Organization, then these contributions are to be reported on the financial statements of the Organization. The OkEq Operating Endowment Fund -This fund was established as Oklahomans for Equality Fund, a TCF Agency Fund, in April 2001. It transitioned to the OkEq Operating Endowment Fund on 12/30/2010. Current fund advisors are Board President, Vice President, and Treasurer. With 2/3 of the Advisors, TCF can accept annual distribution requests and make changes to the fund including the investment strategy. The portion allocated to the Organization, and reported as investments held by others, is $14,139.04. The portion of funds contributed to TCF by unrelated third-party donors and not reported as investments held by others on the Organizations books is $13,162.36. The OkEq Capital Campaign Fund - This fund was originally established by Tulsa Oklahomans for Human, Rights, Inc. as the Pyramid Project Capital Campaign Reserve Fund, a TCF agency reserve fund, in April 2002. It was renamed to the OkEq Capital Campaign Fund in TCF records. It is an agency reserve fund, and the funds are available to purchase , furnish, maintain, or make improvements to a building to house the Tulsa gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Community Center owned by Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights. Current fund advisors are Board President, Vice President, and Treasurer. With 2/3 of the Advisors, TCF can accept annual distribution requests and make changes to the fund including the investment strategy. The portion allocated to the Organization and reported as investments held by others $29,855.34. The portion of funds contributed to TCF by unrelated third-party donors and not reported as investments held by others on the Organizations books is $106,157.22. 13 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 6 – Investments Held by Others (continued) As of September 30, 2023, the balances are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), up to $500,000. Cash coverage is limited at $250,000. At times, the Organization’s deposits may exceed insured amounts. Management believes the funds are not exposed to any significant risk due to the diversity of high-grade financial instruments held by the fund, and management’s routine assessment of the portfolio. Investment Interest Rate Risk Interest rate risk is the risk that changes in market interest rates will adversely affect the fair value of an investment. Generally, the longer the maturity of an investment, the greater the sensitivity of its fair value to changes in market interest rates. Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements The Organization reports fair value measurements of its assets and liabilities using a three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy, established by GAAP, requires that entities maximize the use of observable inputs, and minimize the use of unobservable inputs, when measuring fair value. The assets or liability’s measurement within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the measurement. The three levels of input used to measure fair value are as follows: Level 1. Quoted prices are for identical assets or liabilities in active markets to which the Organization has access at the measurement date. Level 2. Inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include:     Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; Quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active; Observable inputs other than quoted prices for the asset or liability (for example, interest rates and yield curves); and Inputs derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data by correlation, or by other means. Level 3. Unobservable inputs for the assets or liabilities. Unobservable inputs should be used to measure the fair value if observable inputs are not available. When available, the Organization measures fair value using Level 1 inputs because they generally provide the most reliable evidence of fair value. However, Level 1 inputs are not available for many of the assets and liabilities that the Organization is required to measure at fair value (for example, unconditional promise to give and in-kind contributions). The primary uses of fair value measurements in the Organization’s financial statements are the initial measurement of noncash gifts, gifts of investment assets, if any, including unconditional promises to give, and recurring measurement of short-term and long-term investments. 13 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 8 – Property and Equipment The following is an analysis of property and equipment, at cost, and related depreciation at September 30, 2023: Beginning of Year Furniture and Fixtures Building and Improvements Computers and Software Total Capital Assets Less: Accumulated Depreciation Net Book Value $ 132,750.97 2,019,249.99 66,342.85 2,218,343.81 (917,987.21) 1,300,356.60 $ Additions Deletions 24,021.91 24,021.91 (105,960.63) (81,938.72) (22,674.42) (5,873.45) (51,262.55) (79,810.42) 79,810.42 $ - End of Year $ 134,098.46 2,013,376.54 15,080.30 2,162,555.30 (944,137.42) 1,218,417.88 Note 9 – Deferred Revenue Deferred revenue represents payments received for events occurring subsequent to year end. Note 10 – Note Payable The Organization had no notes payable as of September 30, 2023. Note 11 – Donated Services The Organization receives a significant amount of donated services from unpaid volunteers, who assist in fundraising and special projects. No amounts have been recognized in the statement of activities because the criteria for the recognition, under authoritative accounting standards, have not been satisfied. Note 12 – Functional Allocation of Expenses The costs of providing the various programs, and supporting services, have been summarized on a functional basis, in the statement of functional expenses. Costs that are not directly associated with providing specific services have been allocated based on the relative time spent by the employees providing these services. Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies As of the date of this report, the Organization had not commitments or contingencies other than those reported on the statement of financial position. 14 �OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 14 – Liquidity and Availability Financial assets available for general expenditure, that is, without donor or other restrictions limiting their use, within one year of September 30, 2023, are: Cash and cash equivalents Investments Promises to give Total financial assets, at year end Less those unavailable for general expenditures within on year, due to: Contractual or donor-imposed restrictions Restricted by donor with time or purpose restrictions Financial assets available to meet cash needs for general expenditures within one year $ 178,212.57 43,994.38 22,690.07 244,897.02 97,766.15 $ 147,130.87 Note 15 – Net Assets with Donor Restrictions The Organization has $97,766.15 net assets with donor restrictions at September 30, 2023. Restricted Purpose Chapter and Affiliates Center link technology Counseling Services Senior Support Services 2024 Gala Various >$2K Total $ $ Amount 66,326.83 9,500.00 5,000.00 1,240.00 11,500.00 4,199.32 97,766.15 Note 16 – Evaluation of Subsequent Events The Organization has evaluated subsequent events through December 22, 2023, the date which the financial statements were available to be issued, and no additional disclosures are required. 15 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND ACCOMPANYING INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE Board of Directors .............................................................................................................................. 3 Independent Auditor’s Report ......................................................................................................... 4-5 Financial Statements Statement of Financial Position ............................................................................................ 6 Statement of Activities ......................................................................................................... 7 Statement of Functional Expenses ........................................................................................ 8 Statement of Cash Flows....................................................................................................... 9 Notes to the Financial Statements ................................................................................. 10-15 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Eric Wilson President Bob Hanson Vice-President Julie Chase Treasurer Whitney Cipolla Secretary Liz Ortiz Member Eddie Carreno Member Claire Combs Member Kaylyn Compton Member Julia Fletcher Member Kylie Vanderslice Member Crista Patrick Member Paula Shannon Member Monique Washington Member Zoe Brett Member Kristy Vann Member at large 3 OBER & LITTLEFIELD Certified Public Accountants, PLLC 124 S. Main Street, Miami, Oklahoma 74354 22 South Adair, Pryor, Oklahoma 74361 918-542-4401 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT Senior Management and Board of Directors Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma OPINION We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statement of financial position as of September 30, 2023, and the related statements of activities, statement of functional expenses, and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. as of September 30, 2023, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. BASIS FOR OPINION We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of the Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions. RESPONSIBILITIES OF MANAGEMENT FOR THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.'s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued. AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements. 4 To the Board of Directors Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Page 2 In performing an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, we:  Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.  Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.  Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.  Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Oklahomans for Equality, Inc.’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time. We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit. [Ober & Littlefield's signature] OBER & LITTLEFIELD Certified Public Accountants, PLLC Miami, Oklahoma December 22, 2023 5 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Assets Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 80,446.42 Cash and cash equivalents - restricted 97,766.15 Investments held by others 43,994.38 Promises to give 22,690.07 Inventory 13,004.85 Prepaid insurance 19,590.23 Total Current Assets 277,492.10 Noncurrent Assets: Furniture and Fixtures 134,098.46 Buildings and Improvements 2,013,376.54 Computers and Software 15,080.30 Less: Accumulated Depreciation (944,137.42) Total Noncurrent Assets 1,218,417.88 Total Assets $ 1,495,909.98 Liabilities Current Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 27,000.36 Accrued expenses 32,186.42 Deferred revenue 1,723.75 Payroll tax payable 856.31 Total Liabilities 61,766.84 Net Assets Net assets without donor restrictions 1,336,376.99 Net assets with donor restrictions 97,766.15 Total Net Assets 1,434,143.14 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 1,495,909.98 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Without Donor Restriction With Donor Restriction Total Revenues, gains, and other support Support: Grants - federal and state $ 20,275.00 $ - $ 20,275.00 Grants 284,422.57 25,500.00 309,922.57 Contributions 213,182.27 163,300.41 376,482.68 Membership income 18,891.05 - 18,891.05 Sponsorship 184,589.10 - 184,589.10 Other Income 293,140.47 - 293,140.47 Total Support 1,014,500.46 188,800.41 1,203,300.87 Net assets released from restrictions 191,619.00 (191,619.00) - Total support 1,206,119.46 (2,818.59) 1,203,300.87 Revenues and gains/(losses): Unrealized gain/(loss) on investment 2,462.20 - 2,462.20 Total revenue and gains/(losses) 2,462.20 - 2,462.20 Total revenues, gains/(losses), and other support 1,208,581.66 (2,818.59) 1,205,763.07 EXPENSES: Program Services 792,989.54 - 792,989.54 Support Services: Fundraising 48,454.12 - 48,454.12 Support Services: General and Administrative 345,035.04 - 345,035.04 Total expenses 1,186,478.70 - 1,186,478.70 Increase (decrease) in net assets 22,102.96 (2,818.59) 19,284.37 Net assets, beginning of year 1,314,274.03 100,584.74 1,414,858.77 Net assets, end of year 1,336,376.99 $ 97,766.15 $ 1,434,143.14 $ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 7 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF FUNCTIONAL EXPENSES FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Program Fundraising General & Admin Total Advertising $ 893.20 $ 2,676.00 $ 731.00 $ 4,300.20 Bank Fees 12,184.15 5,373.62 2,333.28 19,891.05 Chapter and Affiliate Expense 59,601.61 - - 59,601.61 Computer and Software 7,728.71 5,546.20 710.02 13,984.93 Contracted Services 33,892.50 3,813.75 11,419.25 49,125.50 Cost of Goods Sold 34,681.62 - - 34,681.62 Dues, Fees and Registrations 5,057.37 - 3,906.63 8,964.00 Employee benefits 7,563.47 1,747.68 1,537.53 10,848.68 Event expense 101,344.65 2,668.97 - 104,013.62 Insurance 16,561.48 - 24,184.68 40,746.16 Interest Expense - - 70.99 70.99 Lab Services 12,056.75 - - 12,056.75 Meals 1,995.94 - 2,254.65 4,250.59 Miscellaneous 877.31 - 2,565.07 3,442.38 Office/Postage Expense 1,691.66 - 796.93 2,488.59 Payroll tax expense 15,858.58 1,381.76 9,226.83 26,467.17 Performance Expense 46,093.70 - - 46,093.70 Printing/Copying Expense 4,210.95 897.89 1,332.13 6,440.97 Professional Services 25,769.75 370.00 81,788.65 107,928.40 Rental Expense 2,800.91 - - 2,800.91 Repairs and Maintenance 15,261.29 - 12,123.08 27,384.37 Salaries and Wages 209,012.54 18,204.98 121,565.61 348,783.13 Security 61,080.00 - 2,185.85 63,265.85 Staff and Board Development - 495.00 - 495.00 Supplies 18,979.31 5,278.27 10,023.26 34,280.84 Travel Expense 1,930.50 - 2,291.71 4,222.21 Utilities Expense 31,681.33 - 12,207.52 43,888.85 Total Expenses Before Depreciation 728,809.28 48,454.12 303,254.67 1,080,518.07 Depreciation 64,180.26 - 41,780.37 105,960.63 Total Expenses $ 792,989.54 $ 48,454.12 $ 345,035.04 $ 1,186,478.70 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 8 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Cash flows from operating activities Change in net assets $ 19,284.37 Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation expense 105,960.63 Unrealized gain on investments (2,444.51) (Increase)/decrease in operating assets: Promises to give (22,690.07) Inventory 2,696.63 Prepaid expenses (19,590.23) Increase/(decrease) in operating liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued expenses 19,053.41 Unearned revenue 1,723.75 Net cash provided/(used) by operating activities 103,993.98 Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property and equipment (24,021.91) Net cash provided/(used) by investing activities (24,021.91) Net increase/(decrease) in cash 79,972.07 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 98,240.50 Cash and cash equivalents, end of year 178,212.57 $ Reconciliation to statement of financial position: Cash and cash equivalents $ 80,446.42 Restricted cash 97,766.15 $ 178,212.57 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 9 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 1 – Nature of the Organization The Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (the “Organization”), is an Oklahoma nonprofit corporation, incorporated on November 20th, 2006. Oklahomans for Equality, Inc., formerly known as Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights (TOHR), have served the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community since the organization was founded in 1980. The Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. seeks equal rights for LGBT individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Accounting – The financial statements are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting. Accordingly, revenue is recorded when earned, and expenses are recorded when incurred. The financial statements are presented in accordance with authoritative accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. As such, the standards require contributions to be recognized as revenue when they are received, or unconditionally pledged, and net assets to be classified as net assets with donor restrictions or net assets without donor restrictions, depending on the limitations placed on the contributions when received. Income Taxes – The Organization is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, no provision has been made for federal or state income taxes. In addition, the Organization has been determined by the Internal Revenue Service not to be a private foundation, within the meaning of Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Organization’s Forms 990, Organization Exempt from Income Tax, for the years ending 2020, 2021, and 2022 are subject to examination by the IRS, generally for three years after they were filed. Estimates – The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates, and assumptions, that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents include all monies in banks, and highly liquid investments, with maturity dates of less than twelve months. The carrying value of cash, and cash equivalents, approximates fair value because of the short maturities of those financial instruments. Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk – Financial instruments that potentially expose the Organization to concentrations of credit, and market risk consist primarily of cash equivalents and investments. Cash equivalents are maintained at high-quality financial institutions, and credit risk exposure is limited at any one institution. The Organization has not experienced any losses on its cash equivalents. Property and Equipment – Property and equipment are recorded at acquisition cost. The Organization capitalizes assets with a cost greater than $2,500. Betterments and renewals are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations when incurred. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method, over the following estimated useful lives: Building and improvements 40 years Equipment 3-10 years Vehicles 3 years 10 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: (continued) Classification of Net Assets - Net assets of the Organization shall be classified based upon the existence, or absence, of donor-imposed restrictions, as follows: Net Assets without Donor Restrictions - Net assets that are not subject to donor-imposed stipulations. Net Assets with Donor Restrictions - Net assets subject to donor-imposed stipulations that may, or will be, satisfied through the actions of the Organization, and/or the passage of time. Net assets accumulated by the Organization that are not subject to donor-imposed restrictions, but which the Board of Directors of the Organization has earmarked for specific uses, shall be segregated in the accounting records as "board-designated" funds, within the category of net assets without donor restrictions. Note 3 – Concentrations of Credit Risk Custodial credit risk is the risk that, in the event of a bank failure, the Organization’s deposits may not be returned to it. The Organization’s cash deposits, including interest-bearing certificates of deposit, are maintained in financial institutions. The Organization does not currently have a deposit policy for custodial credit risk. Category Carrying Bank A B C Amount Balance Demand deposits $ 178,212.57 $ - $ - $ 178,212.57 $ 176,816.18 Total $ 178,212.57 $ - $ - $ 178,212.57 $ 176,816.18 Category 1 – Cash and cash equivalents that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or collateralized with securities held by the Organization, or its agent, in the Organization’s name. Category 2 – Collateralized with securities held by the pledging financial institution’s trust department, or agent, in the Organization’s name. Category 3 – Uninsured or unregistered investments for which securities are held by the pledging financial institution’s trust department, or agent, but not in the Organization’s name. The Organization maintains investment accounts with the Tulsa Community Foundation. The balances are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), up to $500,000. Cash coverage is limited at $250,000. The Organization as not exceeded these insurance amounts. Management believes the funds are not exposed to any significant risk due to the diversity of high-grade financial instruments held by the fund and management’s routine assessment of the portfolio. As of September 30, 2023, none of the Organization’s deposits were exposed to credit risk. Note 4 – Promises to Give Promises to give are majorly comprised of contributions made to third parties on behalf of the Organization prior to yearend. These funds were received by the Organization after September 30, 2023. 11 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 5 – Restricted Cash As of September 30, 2023, the Organization had restricted cash in the amount of $97,766.15. Restricted as follows: Restricted Purpose Amount Chapter and Affiliates $ 66,326.83 Center link technology 9,500.00 Counseling Services 5,000.00 Senior Support Services 1,240.00 2024 Gala 11,500.00 Various >$2K 4,199.32 Total $ 97,766.15 Note 6 – Investments Held by Others Investments held by others, as of September 30, 2023, consist of two investment funds held by Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF): The OkEq Operating Endowment Fund and the OkEq Capital Campaign Fund. These funds are invested in pooled funds, cash, and equivalents. The investments are carried on the Organization’s books at fair market value. These funds are component funds of Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF). As defined by the United States Treasury Regulations, TCF has the right to modify the terms of the fund agreement. This is sometimes referred to as “variance power”. As a result of the variance power all component funds are considered to be part of a single public charity, TCF. TCF is the legal owner of all assets contributed to any of its component funds. Financial Accounting Standards Board requires that if TCF accepts contributions from the Organization and agrees to transfer those assets and the return on investment of those assets back to the Organization, then these contributions are to be reported on the financial statements of the Organization. The OkEq Operating Endowment Fund -This fund was established as Oklahomans for Equality Fund, a TCF Agency Fund, in April 2001. It transitioned to the OkEq Operating Endowment Fund on 12/30/2010. Current fund advisors are Board President, Vice President, and Treasurer. With 2/3 of the Advisors, TCF can accept annual distribution requests and make changes to the fund including the investment strategy. The portion allocated to the Organization, and reported as investments held by others, is $14,139.04. The portion of funds contributed to TCF by unrelated third-party donors and not reported as investments held by others on the Organizations books is $13,162.36. The OkEq Capital Campaign Fund - This fund was originally established by Tulsa Oklahomans for Human, Rights, Inc. as the Pyramid Project Capital Campaign Reserve Fund, a TCF agency reserve fund, in April 2002. It was renamed to the OkEq Capital Campaign Fund in TCF records. It is an agency reserve fund, and the funds are available to purchase , furnish, maintain, or make improvements to a building to house the Tulsa gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Community Center owned by Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights. Current fund advisors are Board President, Vice President, and Treasurer. With 2/3 of the Advisors, TCF can accept annual distribution requests and make changes to the fund including the investment strategy. The portion allocated to the Organization and reported as investments held by others $29,855.34. The portion of funds contributed to TCF by unrelated third-party donors and not reported as investments held by others on the Organizations books is $106,157.22. 13 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 6 – Investments Held by Others (continued) As of September 30, 2023, the balances are insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), up to $500,000. Cash coverage is limited at $250,000. At times, the Organization’s deposits may exceed insured amounts. Management believes the funds are not exposed to any significant risk due to the diversity of high-grade financial instruments held by the fund, and management’s routine assessment of the portfolio. Investment Interest Rate Risk Interest rate risk is the risk that changes in market interest rates will adversely affect the fair value of an investment. Generally, the longer the maturity of an investment, the greater the sensitivity of its fair value to changes in market interest rates. Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements The Organization reports fair value measurements of its assets and liabilities using a three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. This hierarchy, established by GAAP, requires that entities maximize the use of observable inputs, and minimize the use of unobservable inputs, when measuring fair value. The assets or liability’s measurement within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the measurement. The three levels of input used to measure fair value are as follows: Level 1. Quoted prices are for identical assets or liabilities in active markets to which the Organization has access at the measurement date. Level 2. Inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include:  Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;  Quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active;  Observable inputs other than quoted prices for the asset or liability (for example, interest rates and yield curves); and  Inputs derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data by correlation, or by other means. Level 3. Unobservable inputs for the assets or liabilities. Unobservable inputs should be used to measure the fair value if observable inputs are not available. When available, the Organization measures fair value using Level 1 inputs because they generally provide the most reliable evidence of fair value. However, Level 1 inputs are not available for many of the assets and liabilities that the Organization is required to measure at fair value (for example, unconditional promise to give and in-kind contributions). The primary uses of fair value measurements in the Organization’s financial statements are the initial measurement of noncash gifts, gifts of investment assets, if any, including unconditional promises to give, and recurring measurement of short-term and long-term investments. 13 [sic] OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 8 – Property and Equipment The following is an analysis of property and equipment, at cost, and related depreciation at September 30, 2023: Beginning of Year Additions Deletions End of Year Furniture and Fixtures 132,750.97 24,021.91 (22,674.42) 134,098.46 Building and Improvements 2,019,249.99 - (5,873.45) 2,013,376.54 Computers and Software 66,342.85 - (51,262.55) 15,080.30 Total Capital Assets 2,218,343.81 24,021.91 (79,810.42) 2,162,555.30 Less: Accumulated Depreciation (917,987.21) (105,960.63) 79,810.42 (944,137.42) Net Book Value $ 1,300,356.60 $ (81,938.72) $ - $ 1,218,417.88 Note 9 – Deferred Revenue Deferred revenue represents payments received for events occurring subsequent to year end. Note 10 – Note Payable The Organization had no notes payable as of September 30, 2023. Note 11 – Donated Services The Organization receives a significant amount of donated services from unpaid volunteers, who assist in fundraising and special projects. No amounts have been recognized in the statement of activities because the criteria for the recognition, under authoritative accounting standards, have not been satisfied. Note 12 – Functional Allocation of Expenses The costs of providing the various programs, and supporting services, have been summarized on a functional basis, in the statement of functional expenses. Costs that are not directly associated with providing specific services have been allocated based on the relative time spent by the employees providing these services. Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies As of the date of this report, the Organization had not commitments or contingencies other than those reported on the statement of financial position. 14 OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY, INC. NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 Note 14 – Liquidity and Availability Financial assets available for general expenditure, that is, without donor or other restrictions limiting their use, within one year of September 30, 2023, are: Cash and cash equivalents $ 178,212.57 Investments 43,994.38 Promises to give 22,690.07 Total financial assets, at year end 244,897.02 Less those unavailable for general expenditures within on year, due to: Contractual or donor-imposed restrictions Restricted by donor with time or purpose restrictions 97,766.15 Financial assets available to meet cash needs for general expenditures within one year 147,130.87 $ Note 15 – Net Assets with Donor Restrictions The Organization has $97,766.15 net assets with donor restrictions at September 30, 2023. Restricted Purpose Amount Chapter and Affiliates $ 66,326.83 Center link technology 9,500.00 Counseling Services 5,000.00 Senior Support Services 1,240.00 2024 Gala 11,500.00 Various >$2K 4,199.32 Total $ 97,766.15 Note 16 – Evaluation of Subsequent Events The Organization has evaluated subsequent events through December 22, 2023, the date which the financial statements were available to be issued, and no additional disclosures are required. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2023] OKEQ Financial Statements from September 30, 2023 Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. Financial Statements and Accompanying Independent Auditor's Report for the Year Ended September 30, 2023 Description An account of the resource 15 pages of the Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (OKEQ) financial statements with auditor's report for the year ended September 30, 2023. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 22, 2023 2023 audit auditor's report Board President Board President Eric Wilson Board Secretary Board Secretary Whitney Cipolla Board Treasurer Board Treasurer Julie Chase Board Vice President Board Vice President Bob Hanson Financial financial statements independent auditor's report Ober & Littlefield Ober and Littlefield OkEq OKEQ Board OKEQ Board of Directors OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Taxes https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/10c9f60a829fb0ca48e26f13a3414595.pdf b0dd3ba97b94a4534efeebb22d19b9a5 PDF Text Text Oklahomans for Equality By-laws Effective October 19, 2023 �By-Laws of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (OkEq) ARTICLE I: NAME, PURPOSE, AND LOCATION Section 1: Name of Organization The name of this organization shall be Oklahomans for Equality, Inc., hereinafter referred to as “OkEq,” a not-for-profit corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Oklahoma. Section2: Purposes The purposes for which OkEq is formed are: a. To promote educational, health, cultural, and social services directed at furthering the well-being, equal treatment and development of the two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, ace plus ("2SLGBTQIA+") community and supportive allies. b. To promote, through advocacy and education, a better understanding of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and the necessity or the equal treatment thereof, including bringing an end to discrimination and oppression against all persons based upon sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Such activities shall be carried out to the extent permitted by federal regulations attributable to a 50l(c)(3) organization and other applicable regulations. c. To operate a 2SLGBTQIA+ equality center for the benefit of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and its allies. Section 3: Mission OkEq seeks equal rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. I �Section 4: Principal Office The principal office of OkEq shall be located in Tulsa, Oklahoma at 621 E. 4th Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120, known as the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center ("Equality Center"). OkEq may have such other offices as the Board of Directors determines or as OkEq affairs may require. Section 5: Fiscal Year Books The tax and fiscal year for OkEq shall begin on October 1st and end on September 30th of each year thereafter. An independent audit of the books and records of OkEq shall be conducted at least biannually. The Audit Committee shall ensure that documents for any audit are to be provided to the auditors by December 31st following the period to be audited and shall ensure the audit is completed as timely as possible. The audit report shall be presented to the Board of Directors within thirty (30) days of its completion and within sixty (60) days of completion shall be made available to the public for review. ARTICLE II: MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS, VOTING AND RIGHTS Section 1: Membership Membership shall be open to all persons who support the purpose and mission of OkEq. A person becomes a Member by submitting an application, making a financial contribution to OkEq, or making an in-kind contribution to OkEq at a level determined by the Board of Directors, which shall be no less than fifty dollars ($50.00) annually. Members: a. Shall be eligible to be the beneficiaries of all programs of OkEq and to participate in services provided at the Equality Center, subject to any participant fee established by the Board of Directors for any particular program, event, or service. b. Are eligible to be elected to the Board of Directors pursuant to Article III, Section 3, provided the Voting Member has been a person with such membership for at least thirty (30) days immediately preceding any vote. c Shall have the right to vote on any by-law revision which affects membership rights, provided the Voting Member has been a person with such membership for at least thirty (30) days immediately preceding any vote. d. Shall have the right to petition the Board of Directors of any grievance, �concern or suggestion. Any such petition shall be in writing, signed by no less than 15 Voting Members and presented to the Secretary for certification. A certified petition shall be presented to the Board at its next scheduled Board meeting, whereby petitioners shall have the right to make public comment. Petitions are not binding upon the Board and petitioners do not have the right to force a vote upon the petition. Section 2: Other Categories and Membership The Board of Directors may establish various other categories of membership and set forth benefits and requirements of such membership categories, including dues. Section 3: Changes to Membership Policy Any changes to this membership policy must be proposed at least thirty (30) days prior to an Annual Meeting or a Special Membership Meeting and must be made available for review by all Members prior to being voted upon. Such membership policy changes shall require two-thirds (2/3) approval of the full Board and a simple majority approval by the Members in attendance. Section 4: Membership Records The Board of Directors or its designee shall be required to keep accurate and up to date records pertaining to Membership. Such records shall be confidential and may not be disclosed to any other group or organization, except as may be required in applications for grants or third party funding. Additional exceptions to this policy may be approved by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE III: BOARD OF DIRECTORS Directors are members of the Board of Directors (hereafter "the Board" or "the Board of Directors," not to include the Trustees or Advisors) either elected pursuant Article III, Section 6 or appointed to the Board pursuant to Article III, Section 14. Directors must be Members. Section 1: General Powers Subject to the limitations provided by law, the Oklahoma General Corporation Act of the state of Oklahoma, and the Certificate of Incorporation for OkEq, all corporate powers and purposes shall be exercised by or under the authority of the Board of Directors, and the business and affairs of OkEq shall be managed and conducted exclusively by the Board of Directors. Without prejudice to the general powers established by law, but subject to the limitations set forth herein, the Board of Directors shall have the power and authority to: �a. Conduct, manage, and control the business and affairs of OkEq as the Board deems necessary and just. b. Pass resolutions not inconsistent with these by-laws, which shall remain effective until repealed as set forth in Article III, Section 17. c. Elect and remove at pleasure all the Officers, agents, and the Executive Director of OkEq not inconsistent with these by-laws, and to prescribe for them their duties, fix the terms of their service, and any compensation, if any, and to require from them any such forms of security for faithful service as the Board deems fit. d. Approve any incoming new or returning Directors. e. Remove any of its Directors pursuant to Section 13 of this Article or a Member for cause upon a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full Board. f. Establish and terminate committees as needed. Section 2: Limitations The Board of Directors of OkEq shall not have the power or authority to: a. Negotiate, develop, execute, or implement any lease agreement exceeding thirty (30) days for all or any part of the real estate held by OkEq; b. Encumber in any way the real property of OkEq; c. Obligate OkEq to any single capital debt exceeding $50,000 unless approved by a majority vote of the full Board of Directors and unanimous vote of all of the Trustees; d. Make any substantive changes to the physical and/or structural appearance of the principal office of OkEq except with approval of the Trustees; or e. Pledge as collateral, encumber in any way, spend, levy or have any access whatsoever to the principal or accrued interest or dividends of the Capital Endowment funds held in trust by the Tulsa Community Foundation on behalf of �OkEq except with the unanimous written approval of the full Board of Directors and the unanimous written approval of the Trustees. This provision does not apply to any funds specifically pledged or earmarked for operations whether held at the Tulsa Community Foundation or any other financial or trust institution. Section 3: Qualifications of Members of the Board of Directors Directors must have their principal place of residence in the state of Oklahoma. They must have been members of OkEq for at least thirty (30) days immediately prior to their election. No employee of OkEq may serve as a Director. The Board may not implement any additional qualification requirements for Directors except when such qualification changes have been approved by a majority of the Board of Directors. However, any qualification changes may not be implemented within ninety (90) days of any election. Prior to nomination, every Director shall agree to the terms of the "Oklahomans for Equality, Board Member Contract" as approved by the majority of the Board of Directors. Section 4: Number and Quorum The OkEq Board of Directors may have up to fifteen (15) and no fewer than nine (9) members. However, to the extent possible, the Board of Directors shall be comprised of an odd number of Directors. A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors shall consist of a simple majority of the current number of sitting Directors. Except as otherwise provided in these by-laws, a majority of all votes cast at a meeting of which a quorum is present is sufficient to approve any matter that properly comes before the meeting. Less than a quorum does not allow any voting on a matter, but the meeting may continue to conclusion or a new meeting may be called. Contemporaneous teleconferencing will count towards quorum and voting with prior notice to the Secretary. Written proxies may be used in voting but will not be counted in determining if a quorum is present. All "votes" prescribed within these bylaws shall require a majority of the quorum, unless the bylaws expressly state that the vote must be by a majority of the full Board of Directors. The requirements of quorum shall also apply to any digital voting in that a simple majority of the current total number of sitting Directors must participate in any �vote. If fewer than a simple majority of the current sitting Directors respond to a digital vote, then the result of that vote, regardless of outcome, will be invalid. Votes will be tabulated via emails in which Directors use the "reply all" function. The President will send out a follow up message detailing whether a quorum was met, and if it was, the result of the overall vote.The President or Secretary will retain copies of all digital votes. Section 5: Tenure and Term Limits Each Director shall hold office for two (2) years beginning October 1st following the date of election. Terms shall be staggered so that approximately onehalf (1/2) of the Board is elected each year. No Director may serve more than three consecutive two-year terms. After six consecutive years of service, a Director must roll off the Board for a minimum of one (1) year. Section 6: a. Nomination and Election Nominations Board of Director nominations shall be made by the Board Development and Governance Committee not less than thirty (30) days before the Annual Meeting, under Article III, Section 12. In making nominations, the Governance Committee shall strive to reflect the demographics and interests of the community it serves. Recruitment efforts shall include persons with diverse minority, racial, and cultural backgrounds, as well as persons with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. b. Elections The makeup of the Board of Directors shall be elected at the Annual Meeting by a majority of the remaining Directors. Section 7: Regular Meeting Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at a time and place to be decided by the President. A minimum of nine (9) Board of Directors' meetings shall be held within the fiscal year. Section 8: Meeting of Members of the Board of Directors and Members-elect of the Board of Directors A meeting of the members of the Board of Directors whose term continues through the next fiscal year and members-elect of the Board of Directors shall be held no �less than thirty (30) days after the Annual Meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to elect Officers for the fiscal year beginning October 1st. Section 9: Meeting Notice, Open Meetings Meeting notices are orchestrated by the Secretary and are given to Directors at least sixty (60) hours before the meeting. Regular meeting notices are to be posted in the OkEq newsletter and website. Any such notice shall contain the time, purposes, and place of the meeting. All Board meetings shall be open meetings except for executive sessions. Section 10: Special Meetings Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or at the request of the President or three (3) or more Directors. Section 11: Special Membership Meetings a. The purpose of a Special Membership Meeting shall be to afford Members the right to have specific grievances, concerns, or suggestions discussed and voted upon by the Board of Directors and all Members in attendance. b. Special Membership Meetings may be called by the Board of Directors or by means of a written petition to the Board of Directors signed by not less than fifteen (15) Members as certified by the Secretary of the Board of Directors. Upon certification, the Secretary shall present said petition for a Special Membership Meeting to the Board, which shall then arrange to hold such a Special Membership Meeting within a reasonable period of time after having received the petition, not to exceed forty-five (45) days. Special Membership Meetings may run concurrently with regular Board meetings. c. The Board shall notify the membership of the meeting at least fifteen (15) days prior to its occurrence. Sufficient notice consists of posting the date, time and place of the meeting in a conspicuous place in the Equality Center and giving notice in an OkEq newsletter, website, social media pages, or other such medium. d. Quorum for a Special Membership Meeting shall require the presence of at least fifteen (15) Members as certified by the Board Secretary unless �the Special Membership Meeting was called by the Board on its own motion. Quorum at a Special Membership Meeting called pursuant to a petition also requires a quorum of the Board of Directors. e. Only the specific issue(s) addressed in the original written petition submitted to the Board Secretary and noticed to the membership shall be up for discussion in the Special Membership Meeting. No other issues or matters not expressly identified in the petition shall be considered. f. Members shall have the right to make a motion for the Board to take specific action(s) as it expressly relates to the petition at hand. The Board shall be compelled to vote upon any such motion that meets the following criteria: (1) The motion must be presented in writing to the Board Secretary during the meeting. (2) The motion must be seconded by a Member. (3) The motion must be approved by a majority vote of the Members in attendance. (4) Any and all motions satisfying these criteria shall be voted upon by the Board of Directors after discussion of the issue. g. A simple majority vote of the Board of Directors shall be required to enact any motion approved by the Members unless restricted by Article III. In the absence of an approval by a majority vote of the Board the motion fails. If the Board is restricted by Article III from voting on the motion the matter fails. Section 12: Annual Meeting The Annual Meeting of the membership and the Board of Directors shall be held in September subject to inclement weather or on such other date as the Board of Directors may decide. Section 13: Removal from Board of Directors Unexcused absences from two (2) consecutive Board meetings within a Board year or three (3) total unexcused absences from Board meetings within a Board year, is equivalent to resignation from the Board of Directors. Sufficient "excuse" will be at the sole discretion and judgment of the Executive Committee in closed session. The Secretary shall confirm absences and shall provide notice of resignation to the �President in writing. Any Director may be removed for cause, including but not limited to violation of the "Board Member Contract," by a twothirds (2/3) vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 14: Vacancies/Resignation In the event of a vacancy on the Board of Directors, the Board Development and Governance Committee shall take suggestions from Directors and Members. The Board Development and Governance Committee shall then recommend a candidate for appointment by the Board of Directors. Appointed Directors shall only fill the unexpired term of the former incumbent up to the time of the next Annual Meeting at which time the Appointed Director may be eligible pursuant to Article III, Section 6 for election by the Board of Directors. The duration of appointment shall not count toward that Director's term limit of three consecutive two-year terms. The Secretary shall keep a record of term expiration dates for individual Directors. Section 15: Compensation Directors, as such, shall not receive any compensation for their services to OkEq. Section 16: Record Keeping Correct and complete records of the proceedings of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, designated committees and all financial accounts shall be kept and maintained at OkEq's principal office or electronically. The last twelve (12) months of Board minutes, the last Annual Membership Meeting minutes, the most recent audited financials, the current financials, and the budget shall be electronically maintained and readily available to Members on the Equality Center’s website. Section 17: Resolutions a. Resolutions of the Board of Directors shall be considered passed when approved by two-thirds (2/3) of the Directors present in quorum at a Board meeting. b. Resolutions shall be consecutively numbered with the year the resolution was passed appearing in the resolution number and then the consecutive number of the particular resolution starting with 2009-1. Example: Resolutions passed in 2010 shall be numbered beginning with 2010-1. �c. Resolutions shall have the force of law for OkEq and shall be effective until repealed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the full Board of Directors, notwithstanding a quorum. d. The Secretary of the Board of Directors shall certify the passage or denial of a particular resolution and note the “yeas” and “nays” on the document which shall be electronically available on OkEq’s website. e. A copy of these bylaws and all resolutions shall be made available for viewing by all Members on OkEq’s website. f. Resolutions may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the full Board of Directors, notwithstanding a quorum. Such amendments shall be attached to the particular resolution being amended and maintained pursuant to Article III, Section 16. Section 18: Confidentiality OkEq Directors, Trustees, Advisors and committee members shall recognize their fiduciary obligation to the membership by ensuring proper protection of confidential information and exercising good judgment in discussing the organization and its activities. At the end of a Director, Trustee, or Advisor's term, or at the end of service by a volunteer or committee member, they shall return all documents, papers, and other materials, regardless of medium, which were provided to them, or created by such person on behalf of the organization, except for those documents or materials which are clearly in the public domain (such as copies of minutes, financials, etc.). Section 19: Director' s Oath of Office Directors shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE IV: OFFICERS Section 1: The Enumerated Officers of the Board of Directors The Officers of OkEq shall be the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. All Officers shall be members of the Board of Directors. �Section 2: Election and Terms of Office Officers shall be elected by the returning members and members-elect of the Board of Directors by majority vote at the Board meeting held pursuant to Article III, Section 8. All Officers shall serve a one-year term. No Officer may serve more than two consecutive one-year terms in the same position. Section 3: Removal from Office Any Officer may be removed by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Notice of proposed removal shall be served in writing to the Officer by the President, or the Vice President if the President is the subject of removal, at least ten (10) days prior to a Board meeting deciding the matter. The notice of proposed removal shall clearly state the reasons. The Officer shall have the right to respond to the proposed removal both orally at a Board meeting deciding the matter and/or in writing. A vote by the Board of Directors sustaining the removal shall be effective immediately, and the Officer shall be notified by the President or Vice President as soon as possible. Removal of an Officer does not supplant that person's elected or appointed right to continue to serve their term as a Board Director unless also removed as a Director pursuant to Article III, Section 13. Section 4: Vacancies of Office A vacancy of any Officer position may be filled by appointment and approval by the Board of Directors for the duration of the unexpired term of the former incumbent Officer. The Board Development and Governance Committee shall recommend a successor for Board approval; however, a vacancy of the President's position shall be filled pursuant to Section 5 of this Article. Any appointed Officer shall serve for the duration of the Officer's term. The duration of appointment shall not count towards the Officer's term limit of two consecutive one-year terms. Section 5: President The President shall serve as President of the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Executive Committee. They shall preside at meetings of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. The President shall have such powers and/or perform such duties as are vested in them by the by-laws and such other duties as prescribed by the Board of Directors. If for some reason the President position shall become vacant, the Vice �President shall assume all of the duties of the President and shall serve as President of the Board of Directors for the duration of the remainder of the term. The President shall also have the power to call a meeting of the Trustees for the election of new Trustees and/or present for a vote all matters within the Trustees' authority. The President shall be a non-voting member of the Trustee Board. Section 6: Vice President The Vice President performs all duties as may be assigned by the Board of Directors and will perform the duties of the President in their absence or incapacity. A Vice President vacancy shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. Section 7: Secretary The Secretary shall be the keeper of corporate records and resolutions. The Secretary shall keep a record of attendance and the minutes of all Board of Directors and Executive Committee meetings; oversee the timely and accurate notice of all meetings and actions set forth within these bylaws; establish and keep all files and documents necessary to support the operations of the Board and its committees; keep a record of Director contact information; certify the passage of all resolutions of the Board of Directors; certify current membership signatures on petitions; certify the membership; and shall perform all other duties as may be assigned to them by the Board of Directors. A Secretary vacancy shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. Section 8: Treasurer The Treasurer shall ensure that accurate and complete corporate financial records are maintained; that financial reports are made at each Board of Directors and Executive Committee meeting; that an audited financial report is timely prepared biannually; and that appropriate financial controls exist throughout the organization. The Treasurer shall also serve as a non-voting member of the Trustees and shall perform all other duties as may be assigned to them by the Board of Directors. A Director elected to encumber the position of Treasurer shall first be subject to a reasonable background investigation, undertaken by OkEq. The Treasurer shall be bonded by a reputable surety insurance company selected by the Board of Directors at the expense of OkEq, provided OkEq has sufficient funds to pay for such bonding. A vacancy in the Treasurer's position shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. �ARTICLE V: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Section 1: Number and Qualifications The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and one at-large member of the Board of Directors. The at-large Board member selected to the Executive Committee shall be elected by members-elect and returning members of the Board at the Board meeting in September pursuant to the guidelines for Officer election in Article IV, Section 2. The Board member at-large may be removed pursuant to Article IV, Section 3. A vacancy of the at-large Board member shall be filled pursuant to Article IV, Section 4. Section 2: Authority The Executive Committee may act for the Board of Directors between meetings of the Board, within policies established by the Board of Directors, and with such additional authority as may be delegated by the Board of Directors or bylaws. All decisions made by the Executive Committee must be timely communicated to the entire Board of Directors. Any act by the Executive Committee may be vetoed by a majority vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 3: Meetings The Executive Committee shall meet as needed at a time and place to be determined by the President. Section 4: Quorum and Procedure Three (3) members of the Executive Committee serving at the time of any meeting shall constitute a quorum. The act of a majority of the Officers present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall keep regular minutes of its proceedings electronically. A report of all actions of the Executive Committee shall be made to the Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting, and the minutes of all Executive Committee meetings shall be available to the Board of Directors and Members upon request by notifying the Secretary. �ARTICLE VI: STANDING COMMITTEES Section 1: Standing Committee Membership The President shall recommend all Standing Committee chairs and obtain approval from the Board. Each committee shall consist of at least one (1) Director as chair and additional persons as needed to carry out the work of the committee. Section 2: Standing Committees The Board of Directors shall utilize Standing Committees to assist in running OkEq’s affairs. The Standing Committees shall be: a. Finance Committee The Finance Committee shall prepare and oversee an annual budget, and develop and implement financial operating procedures for approval by the Board of Directors. The Finance Committee shall be chaired by the Treasurer. b. Board Development and Governance Committee The Board Development and Governance Committee shall be responsible for establishing and maintaining board recruitment procedures, recruitment and nomination of Director/Officer positions, and vacancies. The committee shall, to the extent possible, in board recruitment and nomination, ensure gender balance and the diverse representation of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The committee shall serve the ongoing duty of Board orientation, development, and evaluation. The committee shall ensure that all OkEq by-laws and policies and procedures are adhered to and kept current. c. Audit Committee The Audit Committee shall be responsible for ensuring that the biannual audit of OkEq is conducted in a timely fashion by a qualified licensed professional. Neither the Executive Director nor the Treasurer may serve as a member of the Audit Committee. d. Pride Committee The Pride Committee shall be responsible for assisting OkEq staff and/or contracted designees in planning and executing Pride. �The Pride Committee coordinates the annual Pride event and is responsible for providing progress reports and issues encountered during the organization and coordination of the event to the Board. The committee chair will present a report of financial requirements for the event and will submit a budget for approval to the Board of Directors. The committee chair will also present a report of expenses incurred after the closing of the event. The chair can at their own discretion recruit volunteers to help with the coordination and execution of the event. Coordination between the Pride committee chair and employees should be scheduled ahead of time or the employees can be invited to attend the Pride committee meetings to assist the chair with the coordination of the event. Any complaints from volunteers, staff, vendors, or attendees regarding Pride leadership are to be submitted to the Executive Committee or anonymously via an electronic form for the Executive Committee to review and decide if the complaint warrants action by the Pride committee or the Board. No member of the Executive Committee should serve as the Pride Committee Chair. e. Gala Committee The Gala Committee shall be responsible for selecting a theme, venue, and date for OkEq’s annual fundraising event. The committee shall create programming for the evening, secure donations for the silent auction, and work to promote the event in the Tulsa community. f. Advocacy and Policy Committee The Advocacy and Policy Committee shall monitor policy as it pertains to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at the local, state, and federal level. The committee shall proactively determine policy issues of focus for each state legislative session, create advocacy alert language to engage community advocates, and draft position statements or responses to 2SLGBTQIA+ policy. The policy issues of focus for each state legislative session should be approved by the Board of Directors. g. Communications Committee The Communications Committee shall assist the Executive Director of OkEq in matters of branding, messaging, communications, and public relations. �Section 3: Special Committees The Board of Directors, by motion or resolution, may designate and appoint additional Special Committees. Section 4: Reporting �Committee chairs shall report to the Board of Directors at each regularly scheduled meeting or as deemed necessary by the President of the Board. Minutes shall be taken at all committee meetings and copies thereof in a legible fashion should be provided to the Secretary in a timely manner. Section 5: Quorum Unless otherwise provided in a motion or resolution of the Board, two (2) committee members shall constitute a quorum. ARTICLE VII: Section 1: ADVISORY BOARD Advisory Board Constitution The Board of Directors may establish an Advisory Board. Membership may consist of past Officers, Directors, Members, volunteers of OkEq, current members of allied organizations, or others with expertise deemed valuable to the organization. Advisory Board members shall not have the authority to vote during Board meetings. The President and Executive Director may independently or jointly nominate members of the Advisory Board. Section 2: Approval Advisory Board members shall be voted upon and approved by the Board of Directors. Section 3: Conflict of Interest The Advisory Board members shall not be subject to Article XIII, conflict of interest, unless otherwise required by a motion or resolution of the Board. Section 4: Oath of Office Advisors shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE VIII: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Section 1: Executive Director �At the Board's discretion and subject to budgetary considerations, the Board may approve the hiring and oversee the recruiting of an Executive Director. The Executive Director has day-to-day responsibility for the Equality Center, including carrying out the goals and policies established by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director shall attend all Board of Directors and Trustees meetings, regularly report on the progress of OkEq, answer questions of Board members, and carry out the duties described in the position description as approved by the Board. The Board can designate other duties as necessary. The Executive Director's compensation, inclusive of any awards from time to time, shall be set and approved by the Board of Directors. Section 2: Background Investigation Subject to a favorable background investigation an Executive Director may be hired by a majority vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 3: Duties of the Executive Director The Executive Director's duties shall be set out in a position description developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee and approved by the full Board. The Executive Director shall have the following powers and duties: a. To manage the day-to-day responsibilities in operating the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center and in carrying out OkEq's goals and mission. b. To attend all Board of Directors meetings and Trustee meetings and report on the progress of OkEq in meeting established goals set by the Board. c. To account on a monthly basis at a regularly scheduled Board meeting for all funds received and expended for the month prior to the Board meeting. d. The Executive Director shall not enter into any contract binding OkEq nor execute or deliver any instrument on behalf of OkEq unless authorized in writing by the Board of Directors. To �do otherwise will be considered an act outside the scope of the Executive Director's employment by OkEq. e. Unless approved by a motion of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director shall not open or establish any credit card or debit card in the name of or by any account payable by OkEq. The Executive Director shall have the authority to hire, supervise, direct, and dismiss all employees. f. g. The Executive Director shall serve as an ex-officio member on all committees, except the Audit Committee. h. The Executive Director shall have other duties as specifically prescribed in writing by the Board of Directors and/or the Executive Committee. ARTICLE IX: PROGRAMS The Executive Director may authorize such programs as may be found expedient for the provision of services to the community. Each program shall be administered in accordance with the structure, policies, and procedures approved by the Board of Directors. Any fees for participation shall be at the discretion of the Executive Director or designee. The Executive Director shall report to the Board of Directors on the implementation and progress of new and established programs at the Board meetings. ARTICLE X: Section 1: TRUSTEES Composition and Terms of Office The Trustees shall be comprised of not more than five (5) and not fewer than three (3) Trustees consisting of persons who have donated or raised $5,000.00 or more of funds annually by fiscal year, at least $1,000.00 of that having been a capital gift, and who are not currently serving as a Director on the Board of Directors. Any new Trustees must be Members of OkEq and must be appointed and approved by a majority of the Board of Directors. A new Trustee shall also be approved by a majority vote of the then sitting Trustees. The current members of the Trustees shall be notified of the nominee and his or her qualifications at least fifteen (15) days prior to any vote. The Treasurer of the Board of Directors shall serve as a non-voting member. �The Executive Director may serve as a non-voting member. The Trustees shall elect a Chair. The President of the Board of Directors shall serve as a non-voting member. The Trustees shall be elected to three-year staggered terms to the extent possible. In the event of a vacancy, the Board of Directors, following consultation with the remaining Trustees, shall appoint a qualified Member by majority vote as successor to complete the remainder of an unexpired term. Such new Trustee appointed shall also be approved by a majority vote of the remaining Trustees. No Trustee may serve more than two (2) consecutive terms (six consecutive years). After one year of being off the Trustees, they may be reappointed for another three (3) year term. Section 2: Duties The Trustee's duties and responsibilities shall be comprised of the following and no more: a. Safeguard the principal endowment held in trust by the Tulsa Community Foundation. No monies from the corpus of the restricted permanent capital endowment may be spent unless approved by unanimous consent of all of the Trustees and the unanimous consent of the full Board of Directors. b. Negotiate, develop, execute, and implement any lease agreement exceeding 30 days for all or any part of the real estate held by OkEq, which shall be enacted upon concurrent approval by a majority of the Board of Directors and the Trustees. c. Approval of any substantive changes to the physical and/or structural appearance of the principal office of OkEq or any real property owned by OkEq. No such proposed improvement shall be enacted without the consent of the Trustees and approval by the full Board of Directors. d. Approval of any encumbrances on the real property owned by OkEq. No such proposed encumbrances shall be enacted without the unanimous consent of all of the Trustees and a three-quarters (3/4) approval by the Board of Directors. e. The Trustees are encouraged to annually enter into a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with the Board of Directors which shall not be inconsistent with these bylaws and the limitations imposed on the Board of Directors and the Trustees. Section 3: Removal, Resignation and Appointment �A vacancy shall be created by the expiration of the term in office, or by the death, resignation, or failure of a Trustee to attend, without excuse, two consecutive meetings of the Trustees. A Trustee may be removed by a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the Trustees and a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the Board of Directors. Section 4: Meetings, Quorum and Voting The Trustees may set such meetings as are reasonably necessary with 72 hours notice as the Chair or a quorum of Trustees determines is appropriate under the circumstances. Notice and purpose of the meeting must be given to all Trustees, the Treasurer of the Board of Directors, the President of the Board of Directors, and any Executive Director. Votes may be recorded by any means that can be authenticated. A quorum shall exist where a majority of the Trustees are capable of casting authenticated votes as determined by the Chair. (By way of example, votes may be cast by telephone email). Any vote of the Trustees shall be by all sitting Trustees. Section 5: Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest The Trustees shall be subject to the confidentiality and conflict of interest policies that govern the Board of Directors. Section 6: Amendment of this Article X This Article may only be amended by a majority vote of all sitting Trustees and a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Section 7: Oath of Office Trustees shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE XI: JOINT RESOLUTIONS BETWEEN BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND TRUSTEES Any mortgage, encumbrance, conveyance, or sale of the real property of OkEq must be approved by a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the full Board of Directors and a unanimous vote of the Trustees. No monies from the corpus of the restricted permanent capital endowment �may be spent unless approved by a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors and a unanimous vote of the Trustees. Interest generated by the corpus may be expended by the Trustees for mortgage payments, maintenance, improvements, utilities, and renovation of the infrastructure. ARTICLE XII: CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS Section 1: Contracts The Executive Director or Board President may enter into any contract on behalf of OkEq or execute and deliver any instrument on behalf of OkEq under $10,000.00. Such authority is specifically limited to prior approval by the Board of Directors or the Executive Committee and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Any contracts, executables or delivery of instruments calling for payment of $10,000.00 or more shall require prior-approval from the Board of Directors. Section 2: Checks and Drafts All checks, drafts, or orders for the payment of money or other evidence of indebtedness in the name of OkEq shall be approved and signed by the OkEq Treasurer or such other Director as approved by the Board of Directors. In the absence of such approval by the Board, such instruments shall be signed by the President and countersigned by the Treasurer following approval by the Executive Committee. Under no circumstances shall an approval by the Executive Committee trump any prior disapproval by the Board of Directors. Section 3: Deposits All funds of OkEq shall be deposited in a timely manner to the credit of OkEq in such banks, trust companies or other depositories as the Board of Directors may select. Deposits on behalf of OkEq or any of its programs may be made by the Treasurer, President, Executive Director or any other Director or Officer so authorized by the Board of Directors to make such deposits. Section 4: Solicitation of Funds Solicitation of funds may be reviewed and restricted by the Board of Directors. All formal grant applications or other written instruments in support of the grant application, whether for operations or capital, must have the approval of �the Board of Directors or the Executive Director. ARTICLE XIII: CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 1: Defined Directors and Trustees must avoid conflicts of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest. When there is any question about whether any activity, representation, or conduct is a conflict of interest or gives the appearance of a conflict of interest, the Director or Trustee shall make full disclosure to the Board of Directors which shall determine if a conflict exists. A decision by the Board of Directors on any issue of conflict of interest is final. By way of example, conflicts of interest include situations: Where an individual Director or Trustee's private affairs, financial or material interests are in conflict with their duties and responsibilities or result in an appearance that a conflict of interest exists; Where a Director or Trustee's actions compromise or undermine the trust which the public and Members place in OkEq; and which could impair or appear to impair the Director's or Trustee's abilities to act impartially on behalf of OkEq. Section 2: Expected Behavior Directors and Trustees must act in the best interest of the Members of OkEq. Directors and Trustees shall not participate in decisions from which they could benefit financially, materially, or personally, including, but not limited to benefits accruing to immediate family, partners, or closely allied friends as if the Directors or Trustees in question were to receive the benefit. Directors and Trustees shall not use their position or information obtained therefrom to provide an unfair advantage to them, their family, partners, or closely allied friends, including cases involving funding, approvals, and appointments. The term "closely allied friend(s)" shall be interpreted by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE XIV: INDEMNIFICATION OkEq may, by resolution of the Board of Directors, provide for indemnification by OkEq of any and all of its Directors,Officers, volunteers, �employees, or former Directors and Officers against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by them in connection with the defense of any action, claim, suit or proceeding in which they or any of them are made parties or a party by reason of them acting within the scope of their duties and/or authority having been a Director or Officer of OkEq, except in matters as to which such Director or Officer or former Director or Officer shall be adjudged in such action, claim, suit, or proceeding to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her duty and/or to have been acting outside the scope of their duties and/or authority and to such matters as shall be settled by agreement predicated on the existence of such liability for negligence or misconduct. This clause or any indemnification hereunder shall not be effective if it would increase the liability of OkEq or any Director pursuant to Oklahoma law beyond policy limits and/or coverage of any such insurance. Insurance may be procured at the discretion of the Board of Directors. ARTICLE XV: AMENDMENT TO BYLAWS These bylaws may be amended pursuant to the procedures for a Special Membership Meeting provided for in Article III, Section 11, at the Annual Meeting, or in the event of an exigency the Board may amend these bylaws on its own motion, provided that the amendment is passed by unanimous consent of all the Directors on the Board, not just those present at the meeting. However, any amendment(s) to membership policy shall only comport with Article II, Section 3 and any amendment(s) to Article X shall comport with Article X, Section 6. ARTICLE XVI: BYLAW INTERPRETATION Should the need arise for an interpretation of any provision, language, clause, statement, or conflict between Articles or Sections of these bylaws, the matter shall first be discussed and decided upon by the Board of Directors. Should an impasse arise in an interpretation by the Board, the matter shall be submitted to an independent panel of five (5) Members, not to include any Director, Trustee, or employee of OkEq, to render a written decision on the interpretation which shall be binding, final, and conclusive. �Amendment History Approved December 11, 1987 Approved as amended, August 1, 1989 Approved as amended, July 22, 1997 Approved as amended, July 14, 1998 Approved as amended, September 12, 2000 Approved as amended, December 11, 2001 Approved as amended, February 12, 2002 Approved as amended, August 18, 2002 Approved as amended, September 9, 2003 Approved as amended, October 24, 2005 Approved as amended, July 27, 2006 Approved as amended, July 22, 2007 Approved as amended, November 29, 2007 Approved by the Board and Contributing Membership September 24, 2009 Approved by the Membership, Board and Trustees September 25, 2014 Approved by the Membership, Board and Trustees, September 6, 2018 Approve by the Membership and Board, May 13, 2021 Approved as amended by unanimous vote of the Board on April 20th, 2023 Approved as amended by unanimous vote of the Board on October 19th, 2023 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Oklahomans for Equality By-laws Effective October 19, 2023 By-Laws of Oklahomans for Equality, Inc. (OkEq) ARTICLE I: NAME, PURPOSE, AND LOCATION Section 1: Name of Organization The name of this organization shall be Oklahomans for Equality, Inc., hereinafter referred to as “OkEq,” a not-for-profit corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Oklahoma. Section2 [sic]: Purposes The purposes for which OkEq is formed are: a. To promote educational, health, cultural, and social services directed at furthering the well-being, equal treatment and development of the two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, ace plus ("2SLGBTQIA+") community and supportive allies. b. To promote, through advocacy and education, a better understanding of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and the necessity or the equal treatment thereof, including bringing an end to discrimination and oppression against all persons based upon sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Such activities shall be carried out to the extent permitted by federal regulations attributable to a 50l(c)(3) organization and other applicable regulations. c. To operate a 2SLGBTQIA+ equality center for the benefit of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and its allies. Section 3: Mission OkEq seeks equal rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Section 4: Principal Office The principal office of OkEq shall be located in Tulsa, Oklahoma at 621 E. 4th Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120, known as the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center ("Equality Center"). OkEq may have such other offices as the Board of Directors determines or as OkEq affairs may require. Section 5: Fiscal Year Books The tax and fiscal year for OkEq shall begin on October 1st and end on September 30th of each year thereafter. An independent audit of the books and records of OkEq shall be conducted at least biannually. The Audit Committee shall ensure that documents for any audit are to be provided to the auditors by December 31st following the period to be audited and shall ensure the audit is completed as timely as possible. The audit report shall be presented to the Board of Directors within thirty (30) days of its completion and within sixty (60) days of completion shall be made available to the public for review. ARTICLE II: MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS, VOTING AND RIGHTS Section 1: Membership Membership shall be open to all persons who support the purpose and mission of OkEq. A person becomes a Member by submitting an application, making a financial contribution to OkEq, or making an in-kind contribution to OkEq at a level determined by the Board of Directors, which shall be no less than fifty dollars ($50.00) annually. Members: a. Shall be eligible to be the beneficiaries of all programs of OkEq and to participate in services provided at the Equality Center, subject to any participant fee established by the Board of Directors for any particular program, event, or service. b. Are eligible to be elected to the Board of Directors pursuant to Article III, Section 3, provided the Voting Member has been a person with such membership for at least thirty (30) days immediately preceding any vote. c [sic] Shall have the right to vote on any by-law revision which affects membership rights, provided the Voting Member has been a person with such membership for at least thirty (30) days immediately preceding any vote. d. Shall have the right to petition the Board of Directors of any grievance, concern or suggestion. Any such petition shall be in writing, signed by no less than 15 Voting Members and presented to the Secretary for certification. A certified petition shall be presented to the Board at its next scheduled Board meeting, whereby petitioners shall have the right to make public comment. Petitions are not binding upon the Board and petitioners do not have the right to force a vote upon the petition. Section 2: Other Categories and Membership The Board of Directors may establish various other categories of membership and set forth benefits and requirements of such membership categories, including dues. Section 3: Changes to Membership Policy Any changes to this membership policy must be proposed at least thirty (30) days prior to an Annual Meeting or a Special Membership Meeting and must be made available for review by all Members prior to being voted upon. Such membership policy changes shall require two-thirds (2/3) approval of the full Board and a simple majority approval by the Members in attendance. Section 4: Membership Records The Board of Directors or its designee shall be required to keep accurate and up to date records pertaining to Membership. Such records shall be confidential and may not be disclosed to any other group or organization, except as may be required in applications for grants or third party funding. Additional exceptions to this policy may be approved by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE III: BOARD OF DIRECTORS Directors are members of the Board of Directors (hereafter "the Board" or "the Board of Directors," not to include the Trustees or Advisors) either elected pursuant Article III, Section 6 or appointed to the Board pursuant to Article III, Section 14. Directors must be Members. Section 1: General Powers Subject to the limitations provided by law, the Oklahoma General Corporation Act of the state of Oklahoma, and the Certificate of Incorporation for OkEq, all corporate powers and purposes shall be exercised by or under the authority of the Board of Directors, and the business and affairs of OkEq shall be managed and conducted exclusively by the Board of Directors. Without prejudice to the general powers established by law, but subject to the limitations set forth herein, the Board of Directors shall have the power and authority to: a. Conduct, manage, and control the business and affairs of OkEq as the Board deems necessary and just. b. Pass resolutions not inconsistent with these by-laws, which shall remain effective until repealed as set forth in Article III, Section 17. c. Elect and remove at pleasure all the Officers, agents, and the Executive Director of OkEq not inconsistent with these by-laws, and to prescribe for them their duties, fix the terms of their service, and any compensation, if any, and to require from them any such forms of security for faithful service as the Board deems fit. d. Approve any incoming new or returning Directors. e. Remove any of its Directors pursuant to Section 13 of this Article or a Member for cause upon a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full Board. f. Establish and terminate committees as needed. Section 2: Limitations The Board of Directors of OkEq shall not have the power or authority to: a. Negotiate, develop, execute, or implement any lease agreement exceeding thirty (30) days for all or any part of the real estate held by OkEq; b. Encumber in any way the real property of OkEq; c. Obligate OkEq to any single capital debt exceeding $50,000 unless approved by a majority vote of the full Board of Directors and unanimous vote of all of the Trustees; d. Make any substantive changes to the physical and/or structural appearance of the principal office of OkEq except with approval of the Trustees; or e. Pledge as collateral, encumber in any way, spend, levy or have any access whatsoever to the principal or accrued interest or dividends of the Capital Endowment funds held in trust by the Tulsa Community Foundation on behalf of OkEq except with the unanimous written approval of the full Board of Directors and the unanimous written approval of the Trustees. This provision does not apply to any funds specifically pledged or earmarked for operations whether held at the Tulsa Community Foundation or any other financial or trust institution. Section 3: Qualifications of Members of the Board of Directors Directors must have their principal place of residence in the state of Oklahoma. They must have been members of OkEq for at least thirty (30) days immediately prior to their election. No employee of OkEq may serve as a Director. The Board may not implement any additional qualification requirements for Directors except when such qualification changes have been approved by a majority of the Board of Directors. However, any qualification changes may not be implemented within ninety (90) days of any election. Prior to nomination, every Director shall agree to the terms of the "Oklahomans for Equality, Board Member Contract" as approved by the majority of the Board of Directors. Section 4: Number and Quorum The OkEq Board of Directors may have up to fifteen (15) and no fewer than nine (9) members. However, to the extent possible, the Board of Directors shall be comprised of an odd number of Directors. A quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors shall consist of a simple majority of the current number of sitting Directors. Except as otherwise provided in these by-laws, a majority of all votes cast at a meeting of which a quorum is present is sufficient to approve any matter that properly comes before the meeting. Less than a quorum does not allow any voting on a matter, but the meeting may continue to conclusion or a new meeting may be called. Contemporaneous teleconferencing will count towards quorum and voting with prior notice to the Secretary. Written proxies may be used in voting but will not be counted in determining if a quorum is present. All "votes" prescribed within these bylaws shall require a majority of the quorum, unless the bylaws expressly state that the vote must be by a majority of the full Board of Directors. The requirements of quorum shall also apply to any digital voting in that a simple majority of the current total number of sitting Directors must participate in any vote. If fewer than a simple majority of the current sitting Directors respond to a digital vote, then the result of that vote, regardless of outcome, will be invalid. Votes will be tabulated via emails in which Directors use the "reply all" function. The President will send out a follow up message detailing whether a quorum was met, and if it was, the result of the overall vote.The President or Secretary will retain copies of all digital votes. Section 5: Tenure and Term Limits Each Director shall hold office for two (2) years beginning October 1st following the date of election. Terms shall be staggered so that approximately one half (1/2) of the Board is elected each year. No Director may serve more than three consecutive two-year terms. After six consecutive years of service, a Director must roll off the Board for a minimum of one (1) year. Section 6: Nomination and Election a. Nominations Board of Director nominations shall be made by the Board Development and Governance Committee not less than thirty (30) days before the Annual Meeting, under Article III, Section 12. In making nominations, the Governance Committee shall strive to reflect the demographics and interests of the community it serves. Recruitment efforts shall include persons with diverse minority, racial, and cultural backgrounds, as well as persons with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. b. Elections The makeup of the Board of Directors shall be elected at the Annual Meeting by a majority of the remaining Directors. Section 7: Regular Meeting Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at a time and place to be decided by the President. A minimum of nine (9) Board of Directors' meetings shall be held within the fiscal year. Section 8: Meeting of Members of the Board of Directors and Members-elect of the Board of Directors A meeting of the members of the Board of Directors whose term continues through the next fiscal year and members-elect of the Board of Directors shall be held no less than thirty (30) days after the Annual Meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to elect Officers for the fiscal year beginning October 1st. Section 9: Meeting Notice, Open Meetings Meeting notices are orchestrated by the Secretary and are given to Directors at least sixty (60) hours before the meeting. Regular meeting notices are to be posted in the OkEq newsletter and website. Any such notice shall contain the time, purposes, and place of the meeting. All Board meetings shall be open meetings except for executive sessions. Section 10: Special Meetings Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or at the request of the President or three (3) or more Directors. Section 11: Special Membership Meetings a. The purpose of a Special Membership Meeting shall be to afford Members the right to have specific grievances, concerns, or suggestions discussed and voted upon by the Board of Directors and all Members in attendance. b. Special Membership Meetings may be called by the Board of Directors or by means of a written petition to the Board of Directors signed by not less than fifteen (15) Members as certified by the Secretary of the Board of Directors. Upon certification, the Secretary shall present said petition for a Special Membership Meeting to the Board, which shall then arrange to hold such a Special Membership Meeting within a reasonable period of time after having received the petition, not to exceed forty-five (45) days. Special Membership Meetings may run concurrently with regular Board meetings. c. The Board shall notify the membership of the meeting at least fifteen (15) days prior to its occurrence. Sufficient notice consists of posting the date, time and place of the meeting in a conspicuous place in the Equality Center and giving notice in an OkEq newsletter, website, social media pages, or other such medium. d. Quorum for a Special Membership Meeting shall require the presence of at least fifteen (15) Members as certified by the Board Secretary unless the Special Membership Meeting was called by the Board on its own motion. Quorum at a Special Membership Meeting called pursuant to a petition also requires a quorum of the Board of Directors. e. Only the specific issue(s) addressed in the original written petition submitted to the Board Secretary and noticed to the membership shall be up for discussion in the Special Membership Meeting. No other issues or matters not expressly identified in the petition shall be considered. f. Members shall have the right to make a motion for the Board to take specific action(s) as it expressly relates to the petition at hand. The Board shall be compelled to vote upon any such motion that meets the following criteria: (1) The motion must be presented in writing to the Board Secretary during the meeting. (2) The motion must be seconded by a Member. (3) The motion must be approved by a majority vote of the Members in attendance. (4) Any and all motions satisfying these criteria shall be voted upon by the Board of Directors after discussion of the issue. g. A simple majority vote of the Board of Directors shall be required to enact any motion approved by the Members unless restricted by Article III. In the absence of an approval by a majority vote of the Board the motion fails. If the Board is restricted by Article III from voting on the motion the matter fails. Section 12: Annual Meeting The Annual Meeting of the membership and the Board of Directors shall be held in September subject to inclement weather or on such other date as the Board of Directors may decide. Section 13: Removal from Board of Directors Unexcused absences from two (2) consecutive Board meetings within a Board year or three (3) total unexcused absences from Board meetings within a Board year, is equivalent to resignation from the Board of Directors. Sufficient "excuse" will be at the sole discretion and judgment of the Executive Committee in closed session. The Secretary shall confirm absences and shall provide notice of resignation to the President in writing. Any Director may be removed for cause, including but not limited to violation of the "Board Member Contract," by a twothirds [sic] (2/3) vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 14: Vacancies/Resignation In the event of a vacancy on the Board of Directors, the Board Development and Governance Committee shall take suggestions from Directors and Members. The Board Development and Governance Committee shall then recommend a candidate for appointment by the Board of Directors. Appointed Directors shall only fill the unexpired term of the former incumbent up to the time of the next Annual Meeting at which time the Appointed Director may be eligible pursuant to Article III, Section 6 for election by the Board of Directors. The duration of appointment shall not count toward that Director's term limit of three consecutive two-year terms. The Secretary shall keep a record of term expiration dates for individual Directors. Section 15: Compensation Directors, as such, shall not receive any compensation for their services to OkEq. Section 16: Record Keeping Correct and complete records of the proceedings of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, designated committees and all financial accounts shall be kept and maintained at OkEq's principal office or electronically. The last twelve (12) months of Board minutes, the last Annual Membership Meeting minutes, the most recent audited financials, the current financials, and the budget shall be electronically maintained and readily available to Members on the Equality Center’s website. Section 17: Resolutions a. Resolutions of the Board of Directors shall be considered passed when approved by two-thirds (2/3) of the Directors present in quorum at a Board meeting. b. Resolutions shall be consecutively numbered with the year the resolution was passed appearing in the resolution number and then the consecutive number of the particular resolution starting with 2009-1. Example: Resolutions passed in 2010 shall be numbered beginning with 2010-1. c. Resolutions shall have the force of law for OkEq and shall be effective until repealed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the full Board of Directors, notwithstanding a quorum. d. The Secretary of the Board of Directors shall certify the passage or denial of a particular resolution and note the “yeas” and “nays” on the document which shall be electronically available on OkEq’s website. e. A copy of these bylaws and all resolutions shall be made available for viewing by all Members on OkEq’s website. f. Resolutions may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the full Board of Directors, notwithstanding a quorum. Such amendments shall be attached to the particular resolution being amended and maintained pursuant to Article III, Section 16. Section 18: Confidentiality OkEq Directors, Trustees, Advisors and committee members shall recognize their fiduciary obligation to the membership by ensuring proper protection of confidential information and exercising good judgment in discussing the organization and its activities. At the end of a Director, Trustee, or Advisor's term, or at the end of service by a volunteer or committee member, they shall return all documents, papers, and other materials, regardless of medium, which were provided to them, or created by such person on behalf of the organization, except for those documents or materials which are clearly in the public domain (such as copies of minutes, financials, etc.). Section 19: Director' s Oath of Office Directors shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE IV: OFFICERS Section 1: The Enumerated Officers of the Board of Directors The Officers of OkEq shall be the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. All Officers shall be members of the Board of Directors. Section 2: Election and Terms of Office Officers shall be elected by the returning members and members-elect of the Board of Directors by majority vote at the Board meeting held pursuant to Article III, Section 8. All Officers shall serve a one-year term. No Officer may serve more than two consecutive one-year terms in the same position. Section 3: Removal from Office Any Officer may be removed by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Notice of proposed removal shall be served in writing to the Officer by the President, or the Vice President if the President is the subject of removal, at least ten (10) days prior to a Board meeting deciding the matter. The notice of proposed removal shall clearly state the reasons. The Officer shall have the right to respond to the proposed removal both orally at a Board meeting deciding the matter and/or in writing. A vote by the Board of Directors sustaining the removal shall be effective immediately, and the Officer shall be notified by the President or Vice President as soon as possible. Removal of an Officer does not supplant that person's elected or appointed right to continue to serve their term as a Board Director unless also removed as a Director pursuant to Article III, Section 13. Section 4: Vacancies of Office A vacancy of any Officer position may be filled by appointment and approval by the Board of Directors for the duration of the unexpired term of the former incumbent Officer. The Board Development and Governance Committee shall recommend a successor for Board approval; however, a vacancy of the President's position shall be filled pursuant to Section 5 of this Article. Any appointed Officer shall serve for the duration of the Officer's term. The duration of appointment shall not count towards the Officer's term limit of two consecutive one-year terms. Section 5: President The President shall serve as President of the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Executive Committee. They shall preside at meetings of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. The President shall have such powers and/or perform such duties as are vested in them by the by-laws and such other duties as prescribed by the Board of Directors. If for some reason the President position shall become vacant, the Vice President shall assume all of the duties of the President and shall serve as President of the Board of Directors for the duration of the remainder of the term. The President shall also have the power to call a meeting of the Trustees for the election of new Trustees and/or present for a vote all matters within the Trustees' authority. The President shall be a non-voting member of the Trustee Board. Section 6: Vice President The Vice President performs all duties as may be assigned by the Board of Directors and will perform the duties of the President in their absence or incapacity. A Vice President vacancy shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. Section 7: Secretary The Secretary shall be the keeper of corporate records and resolutions. The Secretary shall keep a record of attendance and the minutes of all Board of Directors and Executive Committee meetings; oversee the timely and accurate notice of all meetings and actions set forth within these bylaws; establish and keep all files and documents necessary to support the operations of the Board and its committees; keep a record of Director contact information; certify the passage of all resolutions of the Board of Directors; certify current membership signatures on petitions; certify the membership; and shall perform all other duties as may be assigned to them by the Board of Directors. A Secretary vacancy shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. Section 8: Treasurer The Treasurer shall ensure that accurate and complete corporate financial records are maintained; that financial reports are made at each Board of Directors and Executive Committee meeting; that an audited financial report is timely prepared biannually; and that appropriate financial controls exist throughout the organization. The Treasurer shall also serve as a non-voting member of the Trustees and shall perform all other duties as may be assigned to them by the Board of Directors. A Director elected to encumber the position of Treasurer shall first be subject to a reasonable background investigation, undertaken by OkEq. The Treasurer shall be bonded by a reputable surety insurance company selected by the Board of Directors at the expense of OkEq, provided OkEq has sufficient funds to pay for such bonding. A vacancy in the Treasurer's position shall be filled pursuant to Section 4 of this Article. ARTICLE V: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Section 1: Number and Qualifications The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and one at-large member of the Board of Directors. The at-large Board member selected to the Executive Committee shall be elected by members-elect and returning members of the Board at the Board meeting in September pursuant to the guidelines for Officer election in Article IV, Section 2. The Board member at-large may be removed pursuant to Article IV, Section 3. A vacancy of the at-large Board member shall be filled pursuant to Article IV, Section 4. Section 2: Authority The Executive Committee may act for the Board of Directors between meetings of the Board, within policies established by the Board of Directors, and with such additional authority as may be delegated by the Board of Directors or bylaws. All decisions made by the Executive Committee must be timely communicated to the entire Board of Directors. Any act by the Executive Committee may be vetoed by a majority vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 3: Meetings The Executive Committee shall meet as needed at a time and place to be determined by the President. Section 4: Quorum and Procedure Three (3) members of the Executive Committee serving at the time of any meeting shall constitute a quorum. The act of a majority of the Officers present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall keep regular minutes of its proceedings electronically. A report of all actions of the Executive Committee shall be made to the Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting, and the minutes of all Executive Committee meetings shall be available to the Board of Directors and Members upon request by notifying the Secretary. ARTICLE VI: STANDING COMMITTEES Section 1: Standing Committee Membership The President shall recommend all Standing Committee chairs and obtain approval from the Board. Each committee shall consist of at least one (1) Director as chair and additional persons as needed to carry out the work of the committee. Section 2: Standing Committees The Board of Directors shall utilize Standing Committees to assist in running OkEq’s affairs. The Standing Committees shall be: a. Finance Committee The Finance Committee shall prepare and oversee an annual budget, and develop and implement financial operating procedures for approval by the Board of Directors. The Finance Committee shall be chaired by the Treasurer. b. Board Development and Governance Committee The Board Development and Governance Committee shall be responsible for establishing and maintaining board recruitment procedures, recruitment and nomination of Director/Officer positions, and vacancies. The committee shall, to the extent possible, in board recruitment and nomination, ensure gender balance and the diverse representation of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The committee shall serve the ongoing duty of Board orientation, development, and evaluation. The committee shall ensure that all OkEq by-laws and policies and procedures are adhered to and kept current. c. Audit Committee The Audit Committee shall be responsible for ensuring that the biannual audit of OkEq is conducted in a timely fashion by a qualified licensed professional. Neither the Executive Director nor the Treasurer may serve as a member of the Audit Committee. d. Pride Committee The Pride Committee shall be responsible for assisting OkEq staff and/or contracted designees in planning and executing Pride. The Pride Committee coordinates the annual Pride event and is responsible for providing progress reports and issues encountered during the organization and coordination of the event to the Board. The committee chair will present a report of financial requirements for the event and will submit a budget for approval to the Board of Directors. The committee chair will also present a report of expenses incurred after the closing of the event. The chair can at their own discretion recruit volunteers to help with the coordination and execution of the event. Coordination between the Pride committee chair and employees should be scheduled ahead of time or the employees can be invited to attend the Pride committee meetings to assist the chair with the coordination of the event. Any complaints from volunteers, staff, vendors, or attendees regarding Pride leadership are to be submitted to the Executive Committee or anonymously via an electronic form for the Executive Committee to review and decide if the complaint warrants action by the Pride committee or the Board. No member of the Executive Committee should serve as the Pride Committee Chair. e. Gala Committee The Gala Committee shall be responsible for selecting a theme, venue, and date for OkEq’s annual fundraising event. The committee shall create programming for the evening, secure donations for the silent auction, and work to promote the event in the Tulsa community. f. Advocacy and Policy Committee The Advocacy and Policy Committee shall monitor policy as it pertains to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at the local, state, and federal level. The committee shall proactively determine policy issues of focus for each state legislative session, create advocacy alert language to engage community advocates, and draft position statements or responses to 2SLGBTQIA+ policy. The policy issues of focus for each state legislative session should be approved by the Board of Directors. g. Communications Committee The Communications Committee shall assist the Executive Director of OkEq in matters of branding, messaging, communications, and public relations. Section 3: Special Committees The Board of Directors, by motion or resolution, may designate and appoint additional Special Committees. Section 4: Reporting Committee chairs shall report to the Board of Directors at each regularly scheduled meeting or as deemed necessary by the President of the Board. Minutes shall be taken at all committee meetings and copies thereof in a legible fashion should be provided to the Secretary in a timely manner. Section 5: Quorum Unless otherwise provided in a motion or resolution of the Board, two (2) committee members shall constitute a quorum. ARTICLE VII: ADVISORY BOARD Section 1: Advisory Board Constitution The Board of Directors may establish an Advisory Board. Membership may consist of past Officers, Directors, Members, volunteers of OkEq, current members of allied organizations, or others with expertise deemed valuable to the organization. Advisory Board members shall not have the authority to vote during Board meetings. The President and Executive Director may independently or jointly nominate members of the Advisory Board. Section 2: Approval Advisory Board members shall be voted upon and approved by the Board of Directors. Section 3: Conflict of Interest The Advisory Board members shall not be subject to Article XIII, conflict of interest, unless otherwise required by a motion or resolution of the Board. Section 4: Oath of Office Advisors shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE VIII: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Section 1: Executive Director At the Board's discretion and subject to budgetary considerations, the Board may approve the hiring and oversee the recruiting of an Executive Director. The Executive Director has day-to-day responsibility for the Equality Center, including carrying out the goals and policies established by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director shall attend all Board of Directors and Trustees meetings, regularly report on the progress of OkEq, answer questions of Board members, and carry out the duties described in the position description as approved by the Board. The Board can designate other duties as necessary. The Executive Director's compensation, inclusive of any awards from time to time, shall be set and approved by the Board of Directors. Section 2: Background Investigation Subject to a favorable background investigation an Executive Director may be hired by a majority vote of a quorum of the Board of Directors. Section 3: Duties of the Executive Director The Executive Director's duties shall be set out in a position description developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee and approved by the full Board. The Executive Director shall have the following powers and duties: a. To manage the day-to-day responsibilities in operating the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center and in carrying out OkEq's goals and mission. b. To attend all Board of Directors meetings and Trustee meetings and report on the progress of OkEq in meeting established goals set by the Board. c. To account on a monthly basis at a regularly scheduled Board meeting for all funds received and expended for the month prior to the Board meeting. d. The Executive Director shall not enter into any contract binding OkEq nor execute or deliver any instrument on behalf of OkEq unless authorized in writing by the Board of Directors. To do otherwise will be considered an act outside the scope of the Executive Director's employment by OkEq. e. Unless approved by a motion of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director shall not open or establish any credit card or debit card in the name of or by any account payable by OkEq. f. The Executive Director shall have the authority to hire, supervise, direct, and dismiss all employees. g. The Executive Director shall serve as an ex-officio member on all committees, except the Audit Committee. h. The Executive Director shall have other duties as specifically prescribed in writing by the Board of Directors and/or the Executive Committee. ARTICLE IX: PROGRAMS The Executive Director may authorize such programs as may be found expedient for the provision of services to the community. Each program shall be administered in accordance with the structure, policies, and procedures approved by the Board of Directors. Any fees for participation shall be at the discretion of the Executive Director or designee. The Executive Director shall report to the Board of Directors on the implementation and progress of new and established programs at the Board meetings. ARTICLE X: TRUSTEES Section 1: Composition and Terms of Office The Trustees shall be comprised of not more than five (5) and not fewer than three (3) Trustees consisting of persons who have donated or raised $5,000.00 or more of funds annually by fiscal year, at least $1,000.00 of that having been a capital gift, and who are not currently serving as a Director on the Board of Directors. Any new Trustees must be Members of OkEq and must be appointed and approved by a majority of the Board of Directors. A new Trustee shall also be approved by a majority vote of the then sitting Trustees. The current members of the Trustees shall be notified of the nominee and his or her qualifications at least fifteen (15) days prior to any vote. The Treasurer of the Board of Directors shall serve as a non-voting member. The Executive Director may serve as a non-voting member. The Trustees shall elect a Chair. The President of the Board of Directors shall serve as a non-voting member. The Trustees shall be elected to three-year staggered terms to the extent possible. In the event of a vacancy, the Board of Directors, following consultation with the remaining Trustees, shall appoint a qualified Member by majority vote as successor to complete the remainder of an unexpired term. Such new Trustee appointed shall also be approved by a majority vote of the remaining Trustees. No Trustee may serve more than two (2) consecutive terms (six consecutive years). After one year of being off the Trustees, they may be reappointed for another three (3) year term. Section 2: Duties The Trustee's duties and responsibilities shall be comprised of the following and no more: a. Safeguard the principal endowment held in trust by the Tulsa Community Foundation. No monies from the corpus of the restricted permanent capital endowment may be spent unless approved by unanimous consent of all of the Trustees and the unanimous consent of the full Board of Directors. b. Negotiate, develop, execute, and implement any lease agreement exceeding 30 days for all or any part of the real estate held by OkEq, which shall be enacted upon concurrent approval by a majority of the Board of Directors and the Trustees. c. Approval of any substantive changes to the physical and/or structural appearance of the principal office of OkEq or any real property owned by OkEq. No such proposed improvement shall be enacted without the consent of the Trustees and approval by the full Board of Directors. d. Approval of any encumbrances on the real property owned by OkEq. No such proposed encumbrances shall be enacted without the unanimous consent of all of the Trustees and a three-quarters (3/4) approval by the Board of Directors. e. The Trustees are encouraged to annually enter into a Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with the Board of Directors which shall not be inconsistent with these bylaws and the limitations imposed on the Board of Directors and the Trustees. Section 3: Removal, Resignation and Appointment A vacancy shall be created by the expiration of the term in office, or by the death, resignation, or failure of a Trustee to attend, without excuse, two consecutive meetings of the Trustees. A Trustee may be removed by a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the Trustees and a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the Board of Directors. Section 4: Meetings, Quorum and Voting The Trustees may set such meetings as are reasonably necessary with 72 hours notice as the Chair or a quorum of Trustees determines is appropriate under the circumstances. Notice and purpose of the meeting must be given to all Trustees, the Treasurer of the Board of Directors, the President of the Board of Directors, and any Executive Director. Votes may be recorded by any means that can be authenticated. A quorum shall exist where a majority of the Trustees are capable of casting authenticated votes as determined by the Chair. (By way of example, votes may be cast by telephone email). Any vote of the Trustees shall be by all sitting Trustees. Section 5: Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest The Trustees shall be subject to the confidentiality and conflict of interest policies that govern the Board of Directors. Section 6: Amendment of this Article X This Article may only be amended by a majority vote of all sitting Trustees and a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Section 7: Oath of Office Trustees shall take an oath of office administered by the President of OkEq or their designee. The oath shall be developed by the Board Development and Governance Committee. ARTICLE XI: JOINT RESOLUTIONS BETWEEN BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND TRUSTEES Any mortgage, encumbrance, conveyance, or sale of the real property of OkEq must be approved by a three-quarters (3/4) vote of the full Board of Directors and a unanimous vote of the Trustees. No monies from the corpus of the restricted permanent capital endowment may be spent unless approved by a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors and a unanimous vote of the Trustees. Interest generated by the corpus may be expended by the Trustees for mortgage payments, maintenance, improvements, utilities, and renovation of the infrastructure. ARTICLE XII: CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS Section 1: Contracts The Executive Director or Board President may enter into any contract on behalf of OkEq or execute and deliver any instrument on behalf of OkEq under $10,000.00. Such authority is specifically limited to prior approval by the Board of Directors or the Executive Committee and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Any contracts, executables or delivery of instruments calling for payment of $10,000.00 or more shall require prior-approval from the Board of Directors. Section 2: Checks and Drafts All checks, drafts, or orders for the payment of money or other evidence of indebtedness in the name of OkEq shall be approved and signed by the OkEq Treasurer or such other Director as approved by the Board of Directors. In the absence of such approval by the Board, such instruments shall be signed by the President and countersigned by the Treasurer following approval by the Executive Committee. Under no circumstances shall an approval by the Executive Committee trump any prior disapproval by the Board of Directors. Section 3: Deposits All funds of OkEq shall be deposited in a timely manner to the credit of OkEq in such banks, trust companies or other depositories as the Board of Directors may select. Deposits on behalf of OkEq or any of its programs may be made by the Treasurer, President, Executive Director or any other Director or Officer so authorized by the Board of Directors to make such deposits. Section 4: Solicitation of Funds Solicitation of funds may be reviewed and restricted by the Board of Directors. All formal grant applications or other written instruments in support of the grant application, whether for operations or capital, must have the approval of the Board of Directors or the Executive Director. ARTICLE XIII: CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 1: Defined Directors and Trustees must avoid conflicts of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest. When there is any question about whether any activity, representation, or conduct is a conflict of interest or gives the appearance of a conflict of interest, the Director or Trustee shall make full disclosure to the Board of Directors which shall determine if a conflict exists. A decision by the Board of Directors on any issue of conflict of interest is final. By way of example, conflicts of interest include situations: Where an individual Director or Trustee's private affairs, financial or material interests are in conflict with their duties and responsibilities or result in an appearance that a conflict of interest exists; Where a Director or Trustee's actions compromise or undermine the trust which the public and Members place in OkEq; and which could impair or appear to impair the Director's or Trustee's abilities to act impartially on behalf of OkEq. Section 2: Expected Behavior Directors and Trustees must act in the best interest of the Members of OkEq. Directors and Trustees shall not participate in decisions from which they could benefit financially, materially, or personally, including, but not limited to benefits accruing to immediate family, partners, or closely allied friends as if the Directors or Trustees in question were to receive the benefit. Directors and Trustees shall not use their position or information obtained therefrom to provide an unfair advantage to them, their family, partners, or closely allied friends, including cases involving funding, approvals, and appointments. The term "closely allied friend(s)" shall be interpreted by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE XIV: INDEMNIFICATION OkEq may, by resolution of the Board of Directors, provide for indemnification by OkEq of any and all of its Directors,Officers [sic], volunteers, employees, or former Directors and Officers against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by them in connection with the defense of any action, claim, suit or proceeding in which they or any of them are made parties or a party by reason of them acting within the scope of their duties and/or authority having been a Director or Officer of OkEq, except in matters as to which such Director or Officer or former Director or Officer shall be adjudged in such action, claim, suit, or proceeding to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her duty and/or to have been acting outside the scope of their duties and/or authority and to such matters as shall be settled by agreement predicated on the existence of such liability for negligence or misconduct. This clause or any indemnification hereunder shall not be effective if it would increase the liability of OkEq or any Director pursuant to Oklahoma law beyond policy limits and/or coverage of any such insurance. Insurance may be procured at the discretion of the Board of Directors. ARTICLE XV: AMENDMENT TO BYLAWS These bylaws may be amended pursuant to the procedures for a Special Membership Meeting provided for in Article III, Section 11, at the Annual Meeting, or in the event of an exigency the Board may amend these bylaws on its own motion, provided that the amendment is passed by unanimous consent of all the Directors on the Board, not just those present at the meeting. However, any amendment(s) to membership policy shall only comport with Article II, Section 3 and any amendment(s) to Article X shall comport with Article X, Section 6. ARTICLE XVI: BYLAW INTERPRETATION Should the need arise for an interpretation of any provision, language, clause, statement, or conflict between Articles or Sections of these bylaws, the matter shall first be discussed and decided upon by the Board of Directors. Should an impasse arise in an interpretation by the Board, the matter shall be submitted to an independent panel of five (5) Members, not to include any Director, Trustee, or employee of OkEq, to render a written decision on the interpretation which shall be binding, final, and conclusive. Amendment History Approved December 11, 1987 Approved as amended, August 1, 1989 Approved as amended, July 22, 1997 Approved as amended, July 14, 1998 Approved as amended, September 12, 2000 Approved as amended, December 11, 2001 Approved as amended, February 12, 2002 Approved as amended, August 18, 2002 Approved as amended, September 9, 2003 Approved as amended, October 24, 2005 Approved as amended, July 27, 2006 Approved as amended, July 22, 2007 Approved as amended, November 29, 2007 Approved by the Board and Contributing Membership September 24, 2009 Approved by the Membership, Board and Trustees September 25, 2014 Approved by the Membership, Board and Trustees, September 6, 2018 Approve [sic] by the Membership and Board, May 13, 2021 Approved as amended by unanimous vote of the Board on April 20th, 2023 Approved as amended by unanimous vote of the Board on October 19th, 2023 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2023] OKEQ By-Laws Subject The topic of the resource Oklahomans for Equality By-Laws Effective October 19, 2023 Description An account of the resource 26 pages of Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) By-Laws, approved as amended by unanimous vote of the Board on October 19, 2023. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource October 19, 2023 2023 Advisory Board Advocacy and Policy Committee Audit Committee Board President Board Secretary Board Treasurer by laws by-laws bylaw amendment bylaws Communications Committee contract executive director Gala Committee OkEq OKEQ Advisory Board OKEQ Board OKEQ Board and Trustees OKEQ Board of Directors OKEQ Board President OKEQ Board Secretary OKEQ Board Treasurer OKEQ Board Vice President OKEQ Executive Committee OKEQ Executive Director OKEQ financials OKEQ President of the Board OKEQ Secretary of the Board OKEQ Treasurer of the Board OKEQ trustees OKEQ Vice President of the Board Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Pride Committee https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/de069673b469757b8899914e7888df0e.pdf da2f2de28253cf29ef28c6d518c513d7 PDF Text Text OKEQ Strategic Plan Final Draft 2025 – 2030 For 45 years, Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have faced many obstacles in securing equal rights and a sense of safety and well-being. Over the years, important progress has been made. But recent internal and external issues, including a growing hostile political environment on many levels, are creating unprecedented challenges for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and those organizations providing services and support. In response, OKEQ must adapt to changing circumstances as it continues to support individuals, defend hard-fought rights, and stand against discriminatory policies. We believe the following goals, strategies, and actions will help us create a more resilient and capable organization to meet the moment as we work with others to show strength and a unified voice. Our Mission Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) seeks equal rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Our Goals GOAL ONE: Complete the reconciliation and restorative justice process started by the Community Relations Committee and Transition Team. GOAL TWO: Implement internal and external changes to increase organizational effectiveness and improve governmental operations. GOAL THREE: Employ highly qualified staff who are mission aligned and have lived experience in proximity to the community being served. GOAL FOUR: Expand programs and partnerships to improve services and outreach. GOAL FIVE: Improve the financial, fundraising, and operational structures to stabilize operations and provide a foundation to respond to future needs and challenges. GOAL SIX: Refresh and reimagine our Center to better serve today’s community. �OKEQ Detailed Strategies Action items should be considered a starting place; additional actions may be warranted by the staff, volunteers or committees tasked with the goals and strategies. GOAL ONE Complete the reconciliation and restorative justice process started by the Community Relations Committee and Transition Team. Strategy One: Take actions which demonstrate our durable commitment to the reconciliation work. Action Items: • • • • Engage Restorative Justice Institute of Oklahoma (RJIOK) for a second phase of culture work with the board, staff and larger community. With RJIOK help, host a mission / vision / values retreat with the board and community. Budget for an annual RJIOK board workshop as well as opportunities to share the training with the larger community. Examine and update our policies and practices, especially related to governance, membership, financial management, fundraising, and partnerships. Strategy Two: Ensure transparency and communicate frequently. Action Items: • • • • • Continue quarterly town halls and monthly president’s letter. Educate community members on our new code of conduct and the feedback mechanisms for handling incidents and grievances. Reaffirm recent statements regarding organizational challenges and harms; explain the processes completed or in development to address them. Communicate these updates with the community as they are implemented within the framework of a strategic communications plan. Utilize targeted communication strategies and innovative methods to engage members and stakeholders in the work. �GOAL TWO Implement internal and external changes to increase organizational effectiveness and improve governance operations. Strategy One: Create governance structures that support community involvement at every level. Action Items: • • • • • • • Finalize roles and responsibilities of trustees, board, advisors, including a structure for the financial expectations that ensures buy-in but also creates accessibility. Launch a revised membership strategy that clarifies benefits and responsibilities of membership and creates mechanisms to pay membership dues either through dollars or volunteer service. Grow our talent pipelines by engaging more individuals of varying backgrounds and skillsets in committee service. Review and update policies and processes for selecting and onboarding new board members. Ensure annual training for board members in the areas of nonprofit basics, board responsibilities, OkEq history, social media organization representation, and DEI awareness and action. Build new ways for business and funding partners to demonstrate allyship. Actively engage with CenterLink and other national resources so we can learn from best practices nation-wide. Strategy Two: Review community perceptions of OkEq and make appropriate changes to marketing and branding to address concerns and build on positives. Action Items: • • • • • Engage professional assistance to review branding and build layered communication strategies (i.e. website, e-news, apps, social media, print materials, etc.) Recognize our history and accomplishments as we make appropriate adjustments to respond to current and future challenges and opportunities. Promote Pride as something that lives year-round and is a visible aspect of our engagement in community. Use the power of storytelling to uplift the voices and diverse perspectives of the community as we expand our outreach and services. Ensure our images are representative of the diverse community we serve. �Strategy Three: Use data to tell our story of impact, report our outcomes, and make decisions regarding the implementation of our goals and strategies. Action Items: • • • • Develop an annual stakeholder survey to track progress on needs, goals, and engagement. Use this data to determine program priorities. Develop an annual staff survey to track progress on needs, goals, and engagement. Use this data to make staff related recommendations and in evaluation of the Executive Director performance. Utilize technology tools to track participation in programs and services. Develop surveys to determine client satisfaction as well as relevant impact. Engage in annual planning and review processes. o Executive Director creates annual operational plans to establish specific goals and metrics involved in meeting the goals of the plan. o Executive Committee reviews the plan quarterly and updates board on strategic plan implementation status. o The board annually reviews the plan at a summer planning retreat and adopts changes to the plan as needed at the Annual meeting. GOAL THREE Employ highly qualified staff who are mission aligned and have lived experience in proximity to the community being served. Strategy One: Ensure capable executive leadership. Action Items: • • Launch an Executive Director search committee to build out position description, identify the qualities and qualifications needed, and lead an effective recruitment and interview process. Hire and onboard an Executive Director with a track record of inclusive leadership and demonstrable skills to address the needs of the organization and those we serve. Strategy Two: Invest in a staff structure that provides the capacity to implement strategic initiatives and prioritizes ongoing training and development. Action Items: • Review organization needs and create a long-term staffing plan to address fundamental responsibilities including advocacy, programs, outreach, marketing, fundraising and building partnerships. �• • • • • Ensure up to date job descriptions and clear organization chart with every iteration of staff development. Develop staff recruitment and selection processes that balance community experience, diversity, mission alignment and technical skillsets. Examine compensation structures and benefits to assure workplace retention. Invest in training and accountability to support continued development for team members. Hire and train paid front desk workers as needed to augment volunteer contributions. Ensure all front desk workers have the training and updates needed to ensure consistent guest experiences, accurate referrals, and exceptional customer service. GOAL FOUR Expand programs and partnerships to improve services and outreach. Strategy One: Engage with community through collaboration and partnerships. Action Items: • • • • • • • Complete community asset mapping to identify potential partners as well as programmatic gaps that may still exist that could be filled by OkEq. Create structures through which it is absolutely clear and transparent what OkEq’s relationship is with those operating in our space or promoted on our social media (i.e. which are our programs, which are vetted services that are operating under formal agreements, which are given support but operate independently etc.) Maintain space for hosting third party providers delivering case management, counseling and other important social services on a consistent and widely promoted schedule. Clarify and strengthen our relationships with existing partners and develop new connections to better serve the community. Update our partnership agreements. Partner with affirming social safety net organizations to meet the needs of those most vulnerable in our community through services such as housing and rent assistance, food security, trans-friendly clothing and other important needs. Evaluate our clinic operations to determine which services are best done in-house and which can be provided through partnerships. Invite other clinic providers offering different types of affirming services to use our space during hours our inhouse provider is not in residence. Partner with credible social justice organizations to lend our name and resources to ongoing efforts to defend and expand civic liberties. Expand our engagement with others in the state around advocacy and public affairs. �Strategy Two: Be a hub for connecting people to the affirming resources and training they seek. Action Items: • • • • • • Expand training and resources for our volunteers to ensure consistent and informed information and referrals. Actively engage at tabling events and Pride celebrations across the state to both promote our own resources and stay aware of the resources being offered by others. Update our resource guides for affirming faith communities, supportive health resources, legal resources, equality business members, and other allied businesses and social services. Publish the resource guide on our website. Actively participate with interfaith and community networks that are seeking to improve equity and quality of life for the people of Tulsa, making sure the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are represented at the table. Expand outreach with local attorneys to provide various legal resources and periodic legal clinics to provide information and guidance to members on relevant topics. Partner with educational organizations to provide GED classes, language classes, and a variety of professional learning opportunities in our space, targeted to our members’ identified needs. Strategy Three: Offer opportunities to our community members to build leadership, give service, and advocate for positive change. Action Items: • • • • • • Train a cadre of board and staff representatives to speak to 2SLGBTQIA+ issues with the media and at community events. Partner with city government, emergency responders, and large institutions to ensure they are considering the needs of Oklahoma’s 2SLGBTQIA+ population when making policy. Expand the Equality Business Alliance Membership Program. Offer periodic service-day activities at OkEq and with other service agencies for members. Work with Leadership Tulsa to relaunch the Lead Together Program. Provide education, connection, and encouragement to our members and allies, especially those that have the social or financial capital to do so safely, to be advocates within institutions to foster safer spaces overall and push back on efforts to dismantle protections such as GSA’s, BRG’s, DEI offices, and other initiatives that have provided safe harbor. �Strategy Four: Always be a safe space where people find community, belonging, and support. Action Items: • • • • • • Review current safety protocols and security needs and make adjustment as needed to address concerns and potential threats. Continue and expand our successful line-up of support groups meeting at the center. Start a program to fill the gap in young adult programming (18-23) that was identified during community listening sessions. Invest in quarterly community feasts and holiday gatherings to make space for friendship and comradery. Host, cohost and/or amplify awareness of important community milestones and markers such as Trans Day of Remembrance, World Aids Day and more as appropriate. Honor those we have lost in our community by hosting an annual memorial service. Strategy Five: Embrace the power of the arts, affirming spiritual traditions, and wellness practices to build community across lines of difference, engage hearts, tell stories, and make powerful social change. Action Items: • • • • • Build on the potential of the art gallery with compelling shows and monthly or bimonthly art openings. At least once a year provide a show that highlights some aspect of our shared history. Support the efforts of the staff and the LRT Advisory Council to maximize the utilization of the black box theater for the benefit of OkEq and the community at large. Partner with others to offer author talks, lecture series, affirming religious or spiritual programs, holistic wellness workshops and retreats, film festivals, and other types of intergenerational, cultural, and educational programming. Maintain and expand access to the rich, diverse, and affirming collection provided by the Nancy and Joe McDonald Rainbow Library. Continue the work of the History Project to preserve OkEq documents, artifacts, and community donated items which tell the story of OkEq and of the local 2SLGBTQIA+ community. �GOAL FIVE Improve the financial, fundraising, and operational structures to stabilize operations and provide a foundation to respond to future needs and challenges. Strategy One: Complete the substantial investments in technology that have been started by the IT Special Committee Action Items: • • • • • • Finalize the customer relationship management software conversion process. Implement Asana project management software organization wide. Launch the “Let’s all do Good” app. As funding permits, upgrade technology in the meeting rooms to accommodate today’s virtual meeting landscape. Develop a secure and comprehensive document storing and sharing protocol so resources are available despite staff and volunteer transitions. Provide ongoing training to staff and committee chairs on best practices, organizational standard operating procedures, and use of available technology tools. Strategy Two: Create and implement a comprehensive financial plan that diversifies revenue streams, ensures financial stability, expands endowments and operating reserve, and supports sound fiscal decision making. Action Items: • • • • • • • • Continue quarterly reforecasting and mid-year rebudgeting protocols. Annually implement a successful end-of-year giving campaign that engages individuals and small businesses in the mission. Continuously innovate and improve on the annual gala strategy in ways that maximize proceeds and the participant experience. Prioritize ways that people can be included at a variety of giving levels. Expand our major gifts and foundation support by improved communication and direct contact with current and lapsed donors while cultivating and developing new funders and growing our base of support. Identify mission-related special-project giving opportunities in addition to seeking general operating support. Approve a facility rental strategy that balances earned income with in-kind hosting 2SLGBTQIA+ focused events. Market special rental packages that increase facility rental income. Improve earned revenue opportunities through a calendar of engaging and entertaining fee-based events. Create effective campaigns that solicit, cultivate and track paid memberships. �• • With board and trustee leadership, implement a planned giving program and other funding initiatives designed to add to the corpus of the existing endowments with the Tulsa Community Foundation. Review and update as appropriate the investment and distribution terms of the endowments. Publish a digital annual report that transparently shares sources and uses of funding while highlighting accomplishments and impact. Strategy Three: Expand the value and positive impact that Pride programming provides to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community while managing financial and liability issues. Action Items: • • • • Explore options and determine if OkEq remains the best organization to host and coordinate the Pride festival and programming for the future. Continue the community listening process related to priorities and most important aspects of the annual Pride Festival to the queer community members. To address the growing expense and significant staff and volunteer commitment, adjust the primary festival events to a one or two-day event. With the Pride committee, discuss the opportunities to include more educational and cultural programming with a Pride theme year-round. GOAL SIX Refresh and reimagine our Center to better serve today’s community. Strategy One: Continue organizing and refreshment of the Center. • • • • • • Engage staff, board and volunteers along with professional organizers to help with organizing and decluttering activities. Support the ongoing work of the archivist and volunteers in sorting and preserving meaningful materials that should be kept for historical purposes. With trustees, develop a budget and funding stream to provide for the maintenance and replacements of physical assets and allow for ongoing improvements to address changing needs. With trustees, complete an examination of current space usage and implement facility upgrades that improve the quality of the space, enhance user experience, and maximize facility use. Innovate new uses for old spaces that prioritize flexibility. With staff and stakeholders evaluate needs for spaces such as staff offices, counseling rooms, clothes closet/food pantry, meetings spaces. Consider co-working or coffee house type spaces that members can use during open hours. Refresh paint, floor coverings, furnishings, and lighting; add new plants, artwork and office furniture as needed. �Strategy Two: Plan and execute a capital campaign. • • • • • Engage with staff, architects, fundraising professionals, volunteers, trustees, and contractors to plan a renovation of the Equality Center. Create a budget for capital improvements and add to the endowment if possible. Conduct a capital campaign starting with major gift solicitation in 2026 and a public fundraising effort that launches with the 20th anniversary of the Center in 2027. Implement renovation plans with effective construction management in coordination with the needs of the Center. Plan a grand reopening celebration for the Center. � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document OKEQ Strategic Plan Final Draft 2025 – 2030 For 45 years, Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have faced many obstacles in securing equal rights and a sense of safety and well-being. Over the years, important progress has been made. But recent internal and external issues, including a growing hostile political environment on many levels, are creating unprecedented challenges for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and those organizations providing services and support. In response, OKEQ must adapt to changing circumstances as it continues to support individuals, defend hard-fought rights, and stand against discriminatory policies. We believe the following goals, strategies, and actions will help us create a more resilient and capable organization to meet the moment as we work with others to show strength and a unified voice. Our Mission Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) seeks equal rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and families through intersectional advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Our Goals GOAL ONE: Complete the reconciliation and restorative justice process started by the Community Relations Committee and Transition Team. GOAL TWO: Implement internal and external changes to increase organizational effectiveness and improve governmental operations. GOAL THREE: Employ highly qualified staff who are mission aligned and have lived experience in proximity to the community being served. GOAL FOUR: Expand programs and partnerships to improve services and outreach. GOAL FIVE: Improve the financial, fundraising, and operational structures to stabilize operations and provide a foundation to respond to future needs and challenges. GOAL SIX: Refresh and reimagine our Center to better serve today’s community. OKEQ Detailed Strategies Action items should be considered a starting place; additional actions may be warranted by the staff, volunteers or committees tasked with the goals and strategies. GOAL ONE Complete the reconciliation and restorative justice process started by the Community Relations Committee and Transition Team. Strategy One: Take actions which demonstrate our durable commitment to the reconciliation work. Action Items: • Engage Restorative Justice Institute of Oklahoma (RJIOK) for a second phase of culture work with the board, staff and larger community. • With RJIOK help, host a mission / vision / values retreat with the board and community. • Budget for an annual RJIOK board workshop as well as opportunities to share the training with the larger community. • Examine and update our policies and practices, especially related to governance, membership, financial management, fundraising, and partnerships. Strategy Two: Ensure transparency and communicate frequently. Action Items: • Continue quarterly town halls and monthly president’s letter. • Educate community members on our new code of conduct and the feedback mechanisms for handling incidents and grievances. • Reaffirm recent statements regarding organizational challenges and harms; explain the processes completed or in development to address them. • Communicate these updates with the community as they are implemented within the framework of a strategic communications plan. • Utilize targeted communication strategies and innovative methods to engage members and stakeholders in the work. GOAL TWO Implement internal and external changes to increase organizational effectiveness and improve governance operations. Strategy One: Create governance structures that support community involvement at every level. Action Items: • Finalize roles and responsibilities of trustees, board, advisors, including a structure for the financial expectations that ensures buy-in but also creates accessibility. • Launch a revised membership strategy that clarifies benefits and responsibilities of membership and creates mechanisms to pay membership dues either through dollars or volunteer service. • Grow our talent pipelines by engaging more individuals of varying backgrounds and skillsets in committee service. • Review and update policies and processes for selecting and onboarding new board members. • Ensure annual training for board members in the areas of nonprofit basics, board responsibilities, OkEq history, social media organization representation, and DEI awareness and action. • Build new ways for business and funding partners to demonstrate allyship. • Actively engage with CenterLink and other national resources so we can learn from best practices nation-wide. Strategy Two: Review community perceptions of OkEq and make appropriate changes to marketing and branding to address concerns and build on positives. Action Items: • Engage professional assistance to review branding and build layered communication strategies (i.e. website, e-news, apps, social media, print materials, etc.) • Recognize our history and accomplishments as we make appropriate adjustments to respond to current and future challenges and opportunities. • Promote Pride as something that lives year-round and is a visible aspect of our engagement in community. • Use the power of storytelling to uplift the voices and diverse perspectives of the community as we expand our outreach and services. • Ensure our images are representative of the diverse community we serve. Strategy Three: Use data to tell our story of impact, report our outcomes, and make decisions regarding the implementation of our goals and strategies. Action Items: • Develop an annual stakeholder survey to track progress on needs, goals, and engagement. Use this data to determine program priorities. • Develop an annual staff survey to track progress on needs, goals, and engagement. Use this data to make staff related recommendations and in evaluation of the Executive Director performance. • Utilize technology tools to track participation in programs and services. Develop surveys to determine client satisfaction as well as relevant impact. • Engage in annual planning and review processes. o Executive Director creates annual operational plans to establish specific goals and metrics involved in meeting the goals of the plan. o Executive Committee reviews the plan quarterly and updates board on strategic plan implementation status. o The board annually reviews the plan at a summer planning retreat and adopts changes to the plan as needed at the Annual meeting. GOAL THREE Employ highly qualified staff who are mission aligned and have lived experience in proximity to the community being served. Strategy One: Ensure capable executive leadership. Action Items: • Launch an Executive Director search committee to build out position description, identify the qualities and qualifications needed, and lead an effective recruitment and interview process. • Hire and onboard an Executive Director with a track record of inclusive leadership and demonstrable skills to address the needs of the organization and those we serve. Strategy Two: Invest in a staff structure that provides the capacity to implement strategic initiatives and prioritizes ongoing training and development. Action Items: • Review organization needs and create a long-term staffing plan to address fundamental responsibilities including advocacy, programs, outreach, marketing, fundraising and building partnerships. • Ensure up to date job descriptions and clear organization chart with every iteration of staff development. • Develop staff recruitment and selection processes that balance community experience, diversity, mission alignment and technical skillsets. • Examine compensation structures and benefits to assure workplace retention. • Invest in training and accountability to support continued development for team members. • Hire and train paid front desk workers as needed to augment volunteer contributions. Ensure all front desk workers have the training and updates needed to ensure consistent guest experiences, accurate referrals, and exceptional customer service. GOAL FOUR Expand programs and partnerships to improve services and outreach. Strategy One: Engage with community through collaboration and partnerships. Action Items: • Complete community asset mapping to identify potential partners as well as programmatic gaps that may still exist that could be filled by OkEq. • Create structures through which it is absolutely clear and transparent what OkEq’s relationship is with those operating in our space or promoted on our social media (i.e. which are our programs, which are vetted services that are operating under formal agreements, which are given support but operate independently etc.) • Maintain space for hosting third party providers delivering case management, counseling and other important social services on a consistent and widely promoted schedule. • Clarify and strengthen our relationships with existing partners and develop new connections to better serve the community. Update our partnership agreements. • Partner with affirming social safety net organizations to meet the needs of those most vulnerable in our community through services such as housing and rent assistance, food security, trans-friendly clothing and other important needs. • Evaluate our clinic operations to determine which services are best done in-house and which can be provided through partnerships. Invite other clinic providers offering different types of affirming services to use our space during hours our inhouse provider is not in residence. • Partner with credible social justice organizations to lend our name and resources to ongoing efforts to defend and expand civic liberties. Expand our engagement with others in the state around advocacy and public affairs. Strategy Two: Be a hub for connecting people to the affirming resources and training they seek. Action Items: • Expand training and resources for our volunteers to ensure consistent and informed information and referrals. • Actively engage at tabling events and Pride celebrations across the state to both promote our own resources and stay aware of the resources being offered by others. • Update our resource guides for affirming faith communities, supportive health resources, legal resources, equality business members, and other allied businesses and social services. Publish the resource guide on our website. • Actively participate with interfaith and community networks that are seeking to improve equity and quality of life for the people of Tulsa, making sure the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are represented at the table. • Expand outreach with local attorneys to provide various legal resources and periodic legal clinics to provide information and guidance to members on relevant topics. • Partner with educational organizations to provide GED classes, language classes, and a variety of professional learning opportunities in our space, targeted to our members’ identified needs. Strategy Three: Offer opportunities to our community members to build leadership, give service, and advocate for positive change. Action Items: • Train a cadre of board and staff representatives to speak to 2SLGBTQIA+ issues with the media and at community events. • Partner with city government, emergency responders, and large institutions to ensure they are considering the needs of Oklahoma’s 2SLGBTQIA+ population when making policy. • Expand the Equality Business Alliance Membership Program. • Offer periodic service-day activities at OkEq and with other service agencies for members. • Work with Leadership Tulsa to relaunch the Lead Together Program. • Provide education, connection, and encouragement to our members and allies, especially those that have the social or financial capital to do so safely, to be advocates within institutions to foster safer spaces overall and push back on efforts to dismantle protections such as GSA’s, BRG’s, DEI offices, and other initiatives that have provided safe harbor. Strategy Four: Always be a safe space where people find community, belonging, and support. Action Items: • Review current safety protocols and security needs and make adjustment as needed to address concerns and potential threats. • Continue and expand our successful line-up of support groups meeting at the center. • Start a program to fill the gap in young adult programming (18-23) that was identified during community listening sessions. • Invest in quarterly community feasts and holiday gatherings to make space for friendship and comradery. • Host, cohost and/or amplify awareness of important community milestones and markers such as Trans Day of Remembrance, World Aids Day and more as appropriate. • Honor those we have lost in our community by hosting an annual memorial service. Strategy Five: Embrace the power of the arts, affirming spiritual traditions, and wellness practices to build community across lines of difference, engage hearts, tell stories, and make powerful social change. Action Items: • Build on the potential of the art gallery with compelling shows and monthly or bimonthly art openings. At least once a year provide a show that highlights some aspect of our shared history. • Support the efforts of the staff and the LRT Advisory Council to maximize the utilization of the black box theater for the benefit of OkEq and the community at large. • Partner with others to offer author talks, lecture series, affirming religious or spiritual programs, holistic wellness workshops and retreats, film festivals, and other types of intergenerational, cultural, and educational programming. • Maintain and expand access to the rich, diverse, and affirming collection provided by the Nancy and Joe McDonald Rainbow Library. • Continue the work of the History Project to preserve OkEq documents, artifacts, and community donated items which tell the story of OkEq and of the local 2SLGBTQIA+ community. GOAL FIVE Improve the financial, fundraising, and operational structures to stabilize operations and provide a foundation to respond to future needs and challenges. Strategy One: Complete the substantial investments in technology that have been started by the IT Special Committee Action Items: • Finalize the customer relationship management software conversion process. • Implement Asana project management software organization wide. • Launch the “Let’s all do Good” app. • As funding permits, upgrade technology in the meeting rooms to accommodate today’s virtual meeting landscape. • Develop a secure and comprehensive document storing and sharing protocol so resources are available despite staff and volunteer transitions. • Provide ongoing training to staff and committee chairs on best practices, organizational standard operating procedures, and use of available technology tools. Strategy Two: Create and implement a comprehensive financial plan that diversifies revenue streams, ensures financial stability, expands endowments and operating reserve, and supports sound fiscal decision making. Action Items: • Continue quarterly reforecasting and mid-year rebudgeting protocols. • Annually implement a successful end-of-year giving campaign that engages individuals and small businesses in the mission. • Continuously innovate and improve on the annual gala strategy in ways that maximize proceeds and the participant experience. Prioritize ways that people can be included at a variety of giving levels. • Expand our major gifts and foundation support by improved communication and direct contact with current and lapsed donors while cultivating and developing new funders and growing our base of support. • Identify mission-related special-project giving opportunities in addition to seeking general operating support. • Approve a facility rental strategy that balances earned income with in-kind hosting 2SLGBTQIA+ focused events. Market special rental packages that increase facility rental income. • Improve earned revenue opportunities through a calendar of engaging and entertaining fee-based events. • Create effective campaigns that solicit, cultivate and track paid memberships. • With board and trustee leadership, implement a planned giving program and other funding initiatives designed to add to the corpus of the existing endowments with the Tulsa Community Foundation. Review and update as appropriate the investment and distribution terms of the endowments. • Publish a digital annual report that transparently shares sources and uses of funding while highlighting accomplishments and impact. Strategy Three: Expand the value and positive impact that Pride programming provides to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community while managing financial and liability issues. Action Items: • Explore options and determine if OkEq remains the best organization to host and coordinate the Pride festival and programming for the future. • Continue the community listening process related to priorities and most important aspects of the annual Pride Festival to the queer community members. • To address the growing expense and significant staff and volunteer commitment, adjust the primary festival events to a one or two-day event. • With the Pride committee, discuss the opportunities to include more educational and cultural programming with a Pride theme year-round. GOAL SIX Refresh and reimagine our Center to better serve today’s community. Strategy One: Continue organizing and refreshment of the Center. • Engage staff, board and volunteers along with professional organizers to help with organizing and decluttering activities. • Support the ongoing work of the archivist and volunteers in sorting and preserving meaningful materials that should be kept for historical purposes. • With trustees, develop a budget and funding stream to provide for the maintenance and replacements of physical assets and allow for ongoing improvements to address changing needs. • With trustees, complete an examination of current space usage and implement facility upgrades that improve the quality of the space, enhance user experience, and maximize facility use. • Innovate new uses for old spaces that prioritize flexibility. With staff and stakeholders evaluate needs for spaces such as staff offices, counseling rooms, clothes closet/food pantry, meetings spaces. Consider co-working or coffee house type spaces that members can use during open hours. • Refresh paint, floor coverings, furnishings, and lighting; add new plants, artwork and office furniture as needed. Strategy Two: Plan and execute a capital campaign. • Engage with staff, architects, fundraising professionals, volunteers, trustees, and contractors to plan a renovation of the Equality Center. • Create a budget for capital improvements and add to the endowment if possible. • Conduct a capital campaign starting with major gift solicitation in 2026 and a public fundraising effort that launches with the 20th anniversary of the Center in 2027. • Implement renovation plans with effective construction management in coordination with the needs of the Center. • Plan a grand reopening celebration for the Center. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2025] OKEQ Strategic Plan Final Draft 2025 - 2030 Subject The topic of the resource Final Draft of Oklahomans for Equality Strategic Plan for 2025 - 2030 Description An account of the resource 10 pages of a final draft for Oklahomans for Equality's (OKEQ) strategic plan for the years 2025 to 2030. It contains the organization's mission and goals, and detailed strategic goals with their action items. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://okeq.org/bylaws/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Accessed August 7, 2025 2025 Art Gallery Asana board training budget budgeting CenterLink community community engagement community feast community networks community outreach donations EBA Equality Business Alliance Equality Business Alliance (EBA) executive director executive director search executive director search committee fundraisers fundraising gala health clinic history project IT Special Committee Lead Together Leadership Tulsa legal resources Let's All Do Good LRT Advisory Council memorial memorial service mission statement Nancy and Joe McDonald Rainbow Library Nancy McDonald Rainbow Library OkEq OKEQ Board OKEQ Board and Trustees OKEQ mission OKEQ staff OKEQ strategic plan OKEQ volunteers Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Oklahomans for Equality Board Pride celebration pride festival Rainbow Library Restorative Justice Institute of Oklahoma Restorative Justice Institute of Oklahoma (RJIOK) RJIOK safety safety protocols security staff recruitment strategic plan support groups TCF Trans Day of Remembrance Tulsa Community Foundation Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF) volunteers World AIDS day young adult programming https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/683a4d754ac5db8340bc50dee27bd311.pdf bd8ca451c2a682e4fe218e391f367844 PDF Text Text 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality FAQ The following document answers some questions that we’ve received at the Equality Center over the past weeks and months. As staff, board members, advisors, and trustees we wanted to provide you with this resource as we continue to be as transparent as possible with our members and our community about what’s next for Oklahomans for Equality and the hard work everyone is doing to keep these critical programs and partnerships accessible for our community. We thank you for your patience as we work to stabilize our organization, rebuild trust, and move this organization forward in a way that serves our 2SLGBTQIA+ community for years to come. Our organization is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all our community members. It is important to acknowledge that our community is diverse, with members from various religious, cultural, and political backgrounds. We respect and value this diversity, as it enriches our understanding of the world and strengthens our ability to empathize with others. We encourage our members to engage in respectful dialogue and to seek understanding, even when faced with differing opinions or perspectives. It is through open and honest communication that we can foster a sense of unity and support within our community while still acknowledging the complexity of the world around us. If you have additional questions or concerns to share, we ask you to submit them on our Feedback form where they will be distributed to the proper individuals for awareness and response. Who is currently in charge of the Equality Center? Andi Gunter, who has been involved with the Center since 2019 and has been on staff since 2021, is serving as the Deputy Director of Oklahomans for Equality. Previously, she https://okeq.org/faq/ 1/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality served as the Health Clinic Operations Manager and has stepped up to lead the organization during this transition. Andi began her work at the Center as a volunteer as she sought resources and better understanding to support her trans daughter. Why did you hire Wendy Thomas as a consultant? Why not hire a new Executive Director right away? The OKEQ Board of Directors selected Wendy Thomas to facilitate this transition through a contract of 12 months because of her experience successfully leading a Tulsa nonprofit for more than 20 years and her specific expertise in nonprofit management, leadership transitions, and nonprofit best practices. The Board of Directors wishes to engage in deep, robust community participation in the process of strategic planning and selecting a new permanent executive director. Since this process will take time, the Board of Directors decided Wendy’s expertise would be invaluable for our staff and board while we work toward being ready to hire a new permanent executive director. At Leadership Tulsa, Wendy guided thousands of Tulsans through education, nonprofit, and civic engagement, and she developed programs that successfully educated and engaged underrepresented Tulsans in local nonprofit leadership positions including the Hispanic Leadership Institute, New Voices, Tulsa Changemakers, and a partnership with Oklahomans for Equality called Lead Together. Although not a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, she is an ally who is dedicated to supporting us and committed to engaging with everyone in our community through this transition process. What is the role of the consultant? Now through September, our consultant will be leading our Transition Team, assisting with organization stabilization, and conducting interviews with organization stakeholders to guide decision-making. In the fall, our consultant will help us with comprehensive strategic planning. Then, likely in the new year, she will help us launch a new Executive Director search effort. Until a permanent Executive Director is hired, all work will be overseen and reviewed by Andi Gunter, Deputy Director, as well as the OKEQ Board of Directors. https://okeq.org/faq/ 2/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality Why a Transition Team? To allow our staff to focus on the day-to-day needs of running the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, partnerships, and programs, the Executive Committee decided to assemble a Transition Team made up of volunteers, board members, and staff who can help with the extra efforts needed during this time. The Transition Team can focus on this transition period by supporting, supplementing, and guiding the work of our staff, committees, and various stakeholder groups. The Transition Team is made up of 2SLGBTQIA+ people who have served or are currently serving on the Board of Directors or Advisory Board or have volunteered for or partnered with OKEQ. They were asked to assist with the transition due to specific skill sets that can support this work including nonprofit management, communications, health care, fundraising, human relations, and DEI. It is important to note that the Board remains fully in charge of governance, policy setting, fiduciary oversight, and decisions about strategic direction including a new strategic plan, fundraising, and the search for the next Executive Director. How is the organization financially, right now? We are making progress in financially stabilizing the organization due in great part to support we’ve received from the community and new and long-time funders. The board has diligently streamlined the budget with additional short-term modifications in place as a new budget is developed to align with financial projections. We will be doing quarterly reforecasting and are committed to doing a financial audit every year for the next ten years even though our bylaws only require an audit every other year. We want to be transparent with our financials and cultivate confidence in our stakeholders. The I Am Equality Gala was a successful sold out event, and we are building our fundraising and grant-application pipeline to ensure we can continue to provide services, advocacy, community, and programs for and with our community. Financial updates are being provided monthly to our board, and these meetings are open to the public. Additionally, we post all finance reports on our website. Is the organization up to date with all federal filings including 990 forms? https://okeq.org/faq/ 3/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality We are up to date on all federal filings including the 990 forms that go to the Internal Revenue Service. Presently, we have worked with an independent external tax firm, and have timely filed the Form 990 for the 2022/2023 fiscal year, which was due in February 2024, and which covers our fiscal year starting on October 1, 2022, and ending on September 30, 2023. This form will be uploaded shortly to our public repository on our website. There are also copies of our Forms 990 going back to 2014. The IRS requires tax-exempt organizations to, at minimum, make the last 3 years’ worth of Forms 990 available for public inspection. We have chosen to provide additional years of forms on our website. Did OKEQ lose its accreditation? No. We are not aware of any accreditation required for 2SLGBTQIA+ community centers. We are compliant with all state and federal regulations for nonprofits. If you have specific concerns regarding this matter, please contact the Board President at president@okeq.org. Why did the Tulsa Pride including the festival, parade, and Rainbow Run move to October? Amidst a growing nationwide trend, Oklahomans for Equality has elected to move our Tulsa Pride festivities to October in 2024 and subsequent years. While we still celebrate the month of Pride in June and are engaged and supporting celebratory efforts, the Pride festival, parade, and Rainbow Run are tentatively scheduled for the weekend of October 11th through the 13th, which aligns with LGBT History Month and National Coming Out Day. This is still tentative until we definitively secure permitting from the City of Tulsa, which we have been working on diligently. This shift comes as a response to concerns about the scorching temperatures experienced in June that pose significant health risks for heat-related ailments. By transitioning the event to the fall season, we anticipate Tulsa Pride events will become safer and more inclusive for all attendees. Although historically we have hosted the Equality Gala in late spring and Tulsa Pride in June, this year having both in June created concerns about cash flow for the organization since our two largest events were back-to-back. Another consideration was our staff who tirelessly work to make these large scale events happen. Postponing OKEQ Pride events until the fall gives us a longer runway to raise the funding necessary for a great event, engage more volunteers, and incorporate community feedback. https://okeq.org/faq/ 4/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality What is the status of the investigation into the allegations of embezzlement? We continue to work with authorities to pursue avenues available to us to conclude the investigation and resolve the matter. We spoke to many of these issues in our previous report to the community. Starting in October 2022, OKEQ leadership implemented rigorous financial controls including engaging a nonprofit accounting firm to handle all finances, conducting a forensic audit, and implementing an annual CPA financial audit. Some of the new day-to-day controls include: multiple layers of approval for all invoices, specific approval from the board for the use of restricted funds to ensure that funds are used for intended purposes, elimination of all credit cards, and monthly meetings between the external accounting firm and the Finance Committee. Our audits demonstrate that OKEQ now has all of the needed and recommended financial controls in place. Our latest audit can be viewed here. 08/20/2024 Update: We have been informed that Paul Allen, the former Treasurer of Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ), has been charged with felony embezzlement. It is important to note that these charges are allegations, and Mr. Allen has not been convicted of any crime at this time. We are grateful to the Tulsa Police Department and Tulsa County’s District Attorney’s Office for their thorough investigation and ongoing efforts in this matter. We trust that the legal process will continue to unfold with fairness and due diligence. Our commitment to transparency and accountability remains unwavering, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities as this case progresses. We appreciate the community's support and patience as we navigate this challenging situation. What is OKEQs relationship with the former Executive Director? Dorothy (Des) Ballard served as Interim and then Executive Director of Oklahomans for Equality starting in November 2022. In February, 2024, she left OKEQ. She was not terminated nor was she asked to tender her resignation. OKEQ wishes her the best. What is OKEQ’s stance on Indigenous and Two Spirit issues? The 2SLGBTQIA+ community is made up of a diverse group of individuals. OKEQ https://okeq.org/faq/ 5/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality recognizes that intersectionality (the ways in which queer identities intersect with race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status, class, age, disability, country of origin, religion, languages spoken, and other identities) greatly impacts how certain people are able to move through the world and are perceived. In 2023, we changed our mission statement to include “2SLGBTQIA+” in an effort to center Two Spirit identities in recognition of the fact we are in Oklahoma and own a building on Muscogee Nation land. We have heard and understand that some Two Spirit and indigiqueer individuals have been hurt by our organization. We are committed to working in partnership on how to better serve 2SLGBTQIA+ indigenous people. Our staff and board will be undergoing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which will include how to be more anti-racist. Did OKEQ really ask the production of HBO’s We’re Here not to film? No. The HBO series We're Here was filmed in Oklahoma and aired this spring. In one of the episodes, an email was sent to the production of the show expressing concern about filming in Bartlesville due to political tensions since the Bartlesville City Council banned public drag performances. This email was not sent by Oklahomans for Equality located in Tulsa, but rather by Bartlesville Equality, a separate entity. While we did not issue this statement to We're Here, we understand the difficult nuances of being 2SLGBTQIA+ in a conservative, rural state where our community is always under threat of harm and violence. We look forward to the day when 2SLGBTQIA+ people and artists in Oklahoma don't feel like they have to choose between visibility and safety. What is OKEQ doing to rebuild trust with the community and answer criticisms about their engagement with parts of our diverse and intersectional community? We take feedback and criticisms about the diversity of our board and our relationships with our community seriously. For the past two years, the Board Governance Committee has utilized a board diversity matrix to help identify identity and skill-based gaps on the board. https://okeq.org/faq/ 6/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality We have also formed a new Community Relations Committee which will soon be launching a series of three community conversation sessions facilitated by our consultant to allow us to hear directly from community members in ways that will affect our decision-making and strategic plan going forward. If you would like to register for this event, please do so here. These are scheduled on the following dates: • Sunday, July 21 | 1 to 3 PM • Tuesday, August 6 | 6 to 8 PM • Monday, August 19 | 6 to 8 PM For those who don’t wish to attend a community conversation session, we are also launching a new feedback form on our website at https://okeq.org/feedback/. Furthermore, we will be putting out a community survey to hear from all members of our community. We commit to reinstituting quarterly town halls. We are reviewing our governance policies including future opportunities for public comment at board meetings. We are also reviewing our purpose and process for selecting advisory board members, engaging in community partnerships, and fundraising. We understand that some members of our community have not experienced the Equality Center as a safe or welcoming place, and we take those concerns seriously. We will be developing norms for all members and building users related to our interactions with others, methods for elevating concerns and filing incident reports, due process, opportunities for restoration, and fair and equally enforced consequences when restoration is not an option. In addition to training around board best practices, we are in the process of sourcing proposals for diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racist training for our board and staff. We recognize that where there is no trust, there is no partnership, and we depend on our community partnerships to allow us to effectively serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We are working hard to balance the need to go fast and be responsive to our community’s concerns and going slow and taking the time to be thoughtful and inclusive of multiple perspectives. We are focused on the deep work of self-examination, process https://okeq.org/faq/ 7/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality improvement, consensus building, and strategic planning. This is not a one-and-done process. It will be work that must be engaged with over time and with great attention. If you see ways in which we are coming up short, we welcome the opportunity to do better. Our board members, advisors, trustees and staff are ready, willing, and able to accept your feedback. Should you not feel heard, please reach out to our Board President, Whitney Cipolla, at president@okeq.org or the Community Relations Chair, Yonah Sienna Jasper, at secretary@okeq.org. How can I support OKEQ during this time of transition? If you would like to volunteer at the front desk, please contact hannah.tamplin@okeq.org. If you would like to volunteer for the Pride planning committee, please fill out this interest form. If you are interested in Board committees open to the public, please fill out this form. How will the revenue from Gala be used? Expenditures and revenue numbers from the I Am Equality Gala are being finalized. We will share a report with the Board and public this summer. The budget saving measures were enacted for this year’s gala to maximize profitability and honor our commitment to financial responsibility. This included downsizing to a smaller venue while still honoring the contract with Cox Convention and Business Center, and eliminating an open bar in favor of a cash bar for patrons. The revenue generated from the gala directly impacts our operating budget and will be used for payroll, costs of maintaining the building, and community programming and services. The Board will continue to take stewardship of our resources very seriously. The Board will ensure that a budget for FY2025 maximizes the use of this revenue to continue to stabilize and move the Center forward. If you have comments or ideas our Board should consider during the budgeting process, please submit your thoughts via our feedback form. FEEDBACK https://okeq.org/faq/ 8/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality CONTACT 918-743-4297 Phone 918-938-6537 Health Clinic 918-295-6885 Fax LOCATION Dennis R. Neill Equality Center 621 E 4th ST Tulsa, OK 74120 HOURS Sunday – Monday Closed Tuesday – Thursday 9 am to 9 pm Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday 12 noon to 6pm OKEQ eNEWS SIGNUP Email * https://okeq.org/faq/ 9/10 �8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality First Name * Last Name * I'm not a robot reCAPTCHA Privacy - Terms Submit Copyright © 2019 Oklahomans for Equality Powered by UniComm Solutions https://okeq.org/faq/ 10/10 � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ –Oklahomans for Equality OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY FAQ The following document answers some questions that we’ve received at the Equality Center over the past weeks and months. As staff, board members, advisors, and trustees we wanted to provide you with this resource as we continue to be as transparent as possible with our members and our community about what’s next for Oklahomans for Equality and the hard work everyone is doing to keep these critical programs and partnerships accessible for our community. We thank you for your patience as we work to stabilize our organization, rebuild trust, and move this organization forward in a way that serves our 2SLGBTQIA+ community for years to come. Our organization is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all our community members. It is important to acknowledge that our community is diverse, with members from various religious, cultural, and political backgrounds. We respect and value this diversity, as it enriches our understanding of the world and strengthens our ability to empathize with others. We encourage our members to engage in respectful dialogue and to seek understanding, even when faced with differing opinions or perspectives. It is through open and honest communication that we can foster a sense of unity and support within our community while still acknowledging the complexity of the world around us. If you have additional questions or concerns to share, we ask you to submit them on our Feedback form where they will be distributed to the proper individuals for awareness and response. Who is currently in charge of the Equality Center? Andi Gunter, who has been involved with the Center since 2019 and has been on staff since 2021, is serving as the Deputy Director of Oklahomans for Equality. Previously, she served as the Health Clinic Operations Manager and has stepped up to lead the organization during this transition. Andi began her work at the Center as a volunteer as she sought resources and better understanding to support her trans daughter. https://okeq.org/faq/ 1/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality Why did you hire Wendy Thomas as a consultant? Why not hire a new Executive Director right away? The OKEQ Board of Directors selected Wendy Thomas to facilitate this transition through a contract of 12 months because of her experience successfully leading a Tulsa nonprofit for more than 20 years and her specific expertise in nonprofit management, leadership transitions, and nonprofit best practices. The Board of Directors wishes to engage in deep, robust community participation in the process of strategic planning and selecting a new permanent executive director. Since this process will take time, the Board of Directors decided Wendy’s expertise would be invaluable for our staff and board while we work toward being ready to hire a new permanent executive director. At Leadership Tulsa, Wendy guided thousands of Tulsans through education, nonprofit, and civic engagement, and she developed programs that successfully educated and engaged underrepresented Tulsans in local nonprot leadership positions including the Hispanic Leadership Institute, New Voices, Tulsa Changemakers, and a partnership with Oklahomans for Equality called Lead Together. Although not a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, she is an ally who is dedicated to supporting us and committed to engaging with everyone in our community through this transition process. What is the role of the consultant? Now through September, our consultant will be leading our Transition Team, assisting with organization stabilization, and conducting interviews with organization stakeholders to guide decision-making. In the fall, our consultant will help us with comprehensive strategic planning. Then, likely in the new year, she will help us launch a new Executive Director search effort. Until a permanent Executive Director is hired, all work will be overseen and reviewed by Andi Gunter, Deputy Director, as well as the OKEQ Board of Directors. https://okeq.org/faq/ 2/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality Why a Transition Team? To allow our staff to focus on the day-to-day needs of running the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, partnerships, and programs, the Executive Committee decided to assemble a Transition Team made up of volunteers, board members, and staff who can help with the extra eorts needed during this time. The Transition Team can focus on this transition period by supporting, supplementing, and guiding the work of our staff, committees, and various stakeholder groups. The Transition Team is made up of 2SLGBTQIA+ people who have served or are currently serving on the Board of Directors or Advisory Board or have volunteered for or partnered with OKEQ. They were asked to assist with the transition due to specific skill sets that can support this work including nonprofit management, communications, health care, fundraising, human relations, and DEI. It is important to note that the Board remains fully in charge of governance, policy setting, fiduciary oversight, and decisions about strategic direction including a new strategic plan, fundraising, and the search for the next Executive Director. How is the organization nancially, right now? We are making progress in nancially stabilizing the organization due in great part to support we’ve received from the community and new and long-time funders. The board has diligently streamlined the budget with additional short-term modications in place as a new budget is developed to align with financial projections. We will be doing quarterly reforecasting and are committed to doing a financial audit every year for the next ten years even though our bylaws only require an audit every other year. We want to be transparent with our financials and cultivate condence in our stakeholders. The I Am Equality Gala was a successful sold out event, and we are building our fundraising and grant-application pipeline to ensure we can continue to provide services, advocacy, community, and programs for and with our community. Financial updates are being provided monthly to our board, and these meetings are open to the public. Additionally, we post all nance reports on our website. Is the organization up to date with all federal lings including 990 forms? https://okeq.org/faq/ 3/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality We are up to date on all federal lings including the 990 forms that go to the Internal Revenue Service. Presently, we have worked with an independent external tax firm, and have timely filed the Form 990 for the 2022/2023 scal year, which was due in February 2024, and which covers our fiscal year starting on October 1, 2022, and ending on September 30, 2023. This form will be uploaded shortly to our public repository on our website. There are also copies of our Forms 990 going back to 2014. The IRS requires tax-exempt organizations to, at minimum, make the last 3 years’ worth of Forms 990 available for public inspection. We have chosen to provide additional years of forms on our website. Did OKEQ lose its accreditation? No. We are not aware of any accreditation required for 2SLGBTQIA+ community centers. We are compliant with all state and federal regulations for nonprots. If you have specific concerns regarding this matter, please contact the Board President at president@okeq.org. Why did the Tulsa Pride including the festival, parade, and Rainbow Run move to October? Amidst a growing nationwide trend, Oklahomans for Equality has elected to move our Tulsa Pride festivities to October in 2024 and subsequent years. While we still celebrate the month of Pride in June and are engaged and supporting celebratory efforts, the Pride festival, parade, and Rainbow Run are tentatively scheduled for the weekend of October 11th through the 13th, which aligns with LGBT History Month and National Coming Out Day. This is still tentative until we denitively secure permitting from the City of Tulsa, which we have been working on diligently. This shift comes as a response to concerns about the scorching temperatures experienced in June that pose signicant health risks for heat-related ailments. By transitioning the event to the fall season, we anticipate Tulsa Pride events will become safer and more inclusive for all attendees. Although historically we have hosted the Equality Gala in late spring and Tulsa Pride in June, this year having both in June created concerns about cash ow for the organization since our two largest events were back-to-back. Another consideration was our staff who tirelessly work to make these large scale events happen. Postponing OKEQ Pride events until the fall gives us a longer runway to raise the funding necessary for a great event, engage more volunteers, and incorporate community feedback. https://okeq.org/faq/ 4/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality What is the status of the investigation into the allegations of embezzlement? We continue to work with authorities to pursue avenues available to us to conclude the investigation and resolve the matter. We spoke to many of these issues in our previous report to the community. Starting in October 2022, OKEQ leadership implemented rigorous nancial controls including engaging a nonprot accounting rm to handle all nances, conducting a forensic audit, and implementing an annual CPA financial audit. Some of the new day-to-day controls include: multiple layers of approval for all invoices, specific approval from the board for the use of restricted funds to ensure that funds are used for intended purposes, elimination of all credit cards, and monthly meetings between the external accounting firm and the Finance Committee. Our audits demonstrate that OKEQ now has all of the needed and recommended financial controls in place. Our latest audit can be viewed here. 08/20/2024 Update: We have been informed that Paul Allen, the former Treasurer of Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ), has been charged with felony embezzlement. It is important to note that these charges are allegations, and Mr. Allen has not been convicted of any crime at this time. We are grateful to the Tulsa Police Department and Tulsa County’s District Attorney’s Office for their thorough investigation and ongoing efforts in this matter. We trust that the legal process will continue to unfold with fairness and due diligence. Our commitment to transparency and accountability remains unwavering, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities as this case progresses. We appreciate the community's support and patience as we navigate this challenging situation. What is OKEQs relationship with the former Executive Director? Dorothy (Des) Ballard served as Interim and then Executive Director of Oklahomans for Equality starting in November 2022. In February, 2024, she left OKEQ. She was not terminated nor was she asked to tender her resignation. OKEQ wishes her the best. What is OKEQ’s stance on Indigenous and Two Spirit issues? The 2SLGBTQIA+ community is made up of a diverse group of individuals. OKEQ recognizes that intersectionality (the ways in which queer identities intersect with race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status, class, age, disability, country of origin, religion, languages spoken, and other identities) greatly impacts how certain people are able to move through the world and are perceived. https://okeq.org/faq/ 5/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality In 2023, we changed our mission statement to include “2SLGBTQIA+” in an effort to center Two Spirit identities in recognition of the fact we are in Oklahoma and own a building on Muscogee Nation land. We have heard and understand that some Two Spirit and indigiqueer individuals have been hurt by our organization. We are committed to working in partnership on how to better serve 2SLGBTQIA+ indigenous people. Our staff and board will be undergoing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, which will include how to be more anti-racist. Did OKEQ really ask the production of HBO’s We’re Here not to film? No. The HBO series We're Here was filmed in Oklahoma and aired this spring. In one of the episodes, an email was sent to the production of the show expressing concern about filming in Bartlesville due to political tensions since the Bartlesville City Council banned public drag performances. This email was not sent by Oklahomans for Equality located in Tulsa, but rather by Bartlesville Equality, a separate entity. While we did not issue this statement to We're Here, we understand the difficult nuances of being 2SLGBTQIA+ in a conservative, rural state where our community is always under threat of harm and violence. We look forward to the day when 2SLGBTQIA+ people and artists in Oklahoma don't feel like they have to choose between visibility and safety. What is OKEQ doing to rebuild trust with the community and answer criticisms about their engagement with parts of our diverse and intersectional community? We take feedback and criticisms about the diversity of our board and our relationships with our community seriously. For the past two years, the Board Governance Committee has utilized a board diversity matrix to help identify identity and skill-based gaps on the board. https://okeq.org/faq/ 6/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality We have also formed a new Community Relations Committee which will soon be launching a series of three community conversation sessions facilitated by our consultant to allow us to hear directly from community members in ways that will affect our decision-making and strategic plan going forward. If you would like to register for this event, please do so here. These are scheduled on the following dates: • Sunday, July 21 | 1 to 3 PM • Tuesday, August 6 | 6 to 8 PM • Monday, August 19 | 6 to 8 PM For those who don’t wish to attend a community conversation session, we are also launching a new feedback form on our website at https://okeq.org/feedback/. Furthermore, we will be putting out a community survey to hear from all members of our community. We commit to reinstituting quarterly town halls. We are reviewing our governance policies including future opportunities for public comment at board meetings. We are also reviewing our purpose and process for selecting advisory board members, engaging in community partnerships, and fundraising. We understand that some members of our community have not experienced the Equality Center as a safe or welcoming place, and we take those concerns seriously. We will be developing norms for all members and building users related to our interactions with others, methods for elevating concerns and filing incident reports, due process, opportunities for restoration, and fair and equally enforced consequences when restoration is not an option. In addition to training around board best practices, we are in the process of sourcing proposals for diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racist training for our board and staff. We recognize that where there is no trust, there is no partnership, and we depend on our community partnerships to allow us to effectively serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We are working hard to balance the need to go fast and be responsive to our community’s concerns and going slow and taking the time to be thoughtful and inclusive of multiple perspectives. We are focused on the deep work of self-examination, process improvement, consensus building, and strategic planning. This is not a one-and-done process. It will be work that must be engaged with over time and with great attention. https://okeq.org/faq/ 7/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality If you see ways in which we are coming up short, we welcome the opportunity to do better. Our board members, advisors, trustees and staff are ready, willing, and able to accept your feedback. Should you not feel heard, please reach out to our Board President, Whitney Cipolla, at president@okeq.org or the Community Relations Chair, Yonah Sienna Jasper, at secretary@okeq.org. How can I support OKEQ during this time of transition? If you would like to volunteer at the front desk, please contact hannah.tamplin@okeq.org. If you would like to volunteer for the Pride planning committee, please ll out this interest form. If you are interested in Board committees open to the public, please fill out this form. How will the revenue from Gala be used? Expenditures and revenue numbers from the I Am Equality Gala are being finalized. We will share a report with the Board and public this summer. The budget saving measures were enacted for this year’s gala to maximize protability and honor our commitment to financial responsibility. This included downsizing to a smaller venue while still honoring the contract with Cox Convention and Business Center, and eliminating an open bar in favor of a cash bar for patrons. The revenue generated from the gala directly impacts our operating budget and will be used for payroll, costs of maintaining the building, and community programming and services. The Board will continue to take stewardship of our resources very seriously. The Board will ensure that a budget for FY2025 maximizes the use of this revenue to continue to stabilize and move the Center forward. If you have comments or ideas our Board should consider during the budgeting process, please submit your thoughts via our feedback form. FEEDBACK https://okeq.org/faq/ 8/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality CONTACT 918-743-4297 Phone 918-938-6537 Health Clinic 918-295-6885 Fax LOCATION Dennis R. Neill Equality Center 621 E 4th ST Tulsa, OK 74120 HOURS Sunday – Monday Closed Tuesday – Thursday 9 am to 9 pm Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday 12 noon to 6pm OKEQ eNEWS SIGNUP Email * https://okeq.org/faq/ 9/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality First Name * Last Name * I'm not a robot reCAPTCHA Privacy - Terms Submit Copyright © 2019 Oklahomans for Equality Powered by UniComm Solutions https://okeq.org/faq/ 10/10 8/7/25, 3:55 PM FAQ – Oklahomans for Equality Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] OKEQ FAQs - August 2024 Subject The topic of the resource 2024 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers from Oklahomans for Equality, August 2024 Description An account of the resource 10 pages of a publicly available document posted to the main page of the Oklahomans for Equality website containing 16 frequently asked questions and answers regarding leadership transition, the organization's financial situation, moving Tulsa Pride to October, and the organization's relationship with intersecting communities. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Oklahomans for Equality https://okeq.org/faq/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Accessed August 7, 2025; last updated August 20, 2024 2024 Des Ballard Dorothy (Des) Ballard Dorothy Ballard embezzlement Equality Gala Equality Gala 2024 FAQ HBO We're Here I Am Equality Gala leadership transition OkEq OKEQ Board OKEQ Board of Directors OKEQ fundraising Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Oklahomans for Equality Board Oklahomans for Equality Executive Director Oklahomans for Equality fundraising pride festival pride Parade Pride Parade and festival Rainbow Run transition team Tulsa Pride Tulsa Pride 2024 two spirit We're Here Wendy Thomas https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/c4e4ab6a86452eca7ce441241c62a20b.pdf 33021efb3fdc448bab9ce21e290a91e0 PDF Text Text 2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory  Vernon Leon Jones May 03, 1935 - February 05, 2024 Share:    Obituary Event & Services Charities & Donations Gallery Videos https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 1/4 �2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Guestbook Send Flowers Obituary Vernon Leon Jones, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, left this earthly plane to be with his late partner Phil Wiley, on February 5th, 2024. He was born in Oklahoma, on May 3rd, 1935. As a gay man, born and raised here, Vernon’s chosen family is vast. He is survived by Hayward Jones, Nekesha Jones, JaKobe Jones, Sue Davis, Fred Hilliard, Arlowe Clementine, Mason Thomas, Rey Thomas, and so many other individuals that claimed Vernon as their friend, family, and elder. Vernon was an active learner, even in his later years. He was always working to understand the world around him and was eternally hopeful for a better world. He was a strong advocate for marginalized peoples and was particularly committed to Queer and Black Liberation. Vernon was a clear Taurus. He was intelligent, dependable, logical, honest, and generous. Vernon spent most of his life focused on making his community better. He was a holder of receipts. A maker of spreadsheets. A true community historian and archivist. Vernon was dedicated to making people safer, both in his career in emergency management and his activist work in the fight against AIDS. He was not a stranger to controversy and was unrelenting in speaking his truth and the truth of the people he loved. In the years before his death, Vernon worked hard to ensure that the legacy of LGBTQ activism in Tulsa was properly recorded and preserved for current and future generations. His substantial archive is now housed in Oklahoma State University’s Archives. This collection will be witnessed by researchers and community members for years to come. Vernon was a connector. He worked hard to bring people together and was always willing to give someone support that needed it. Even in his death, he is connecting individuals over their shared love and respect for him and his life. Vernon fought hard for his community and the legacy of his late partner Phil Wiley. Anyone who knew Vernon was graced with stories of Phil’s life and legacy as well as their love for one another. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you remember Vernon by learning something new, taking a stand on social issues that are important to you, and keeping his life and legacy alive through storytelling. https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 2/4 �2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Vernon’s memorial service will take place March 1st at 11 AM at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home (2103 E 3rd St, Tulsa, OK 74104). ABOUT US “We will always be kind and we will never take advantage of you or your family at your saddest time” is our promise to you. BUTLER-STUMPFF & DYER FUNERAL HOME  2103 E 3rd St Tulsa, OK 74104  (918) 587-7000  info@butler-stumpff.com  Available 24/7 https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 3/4 �2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory VISIT US Butler-Stumpff … View larger map Map data ©2025 Report a map error © Copyright 2025 | Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory | Privacy Policy | All Rights Reserved | Blog https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 4/4 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document 2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Butler-Stumpff & Dyer funeral home, crematory, cemetery Vernon Leon Jones May 03, 1935 - February 05, 2024 Share:    Obituary Event & Services Charities & Donations Gallery Videos https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 1/4 2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Guestbook Send Flowers Obituary Vernon Leon Jones, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, left this earthly plane to be with his late partner Phil Wiley, on February 5th, 2024. He was born in Oklahoma, on May 3rd, 1935. As a gay man, born and raised here, Vernon’s chosen family is vast. He is survived by Hayward Jones, Nekesha Jones, JaKobe Jones, Sue Davis, Fred Hilliard, Arlowe Clementine, Mason Thomas, Rey Thomas, and so many other individuals that claimed Vernon as their friend, family, and elder. Vernon was an active learner, even in his later years. He was always working to understand the world around him and was eternally hopeful for a better world. He was a strong advocate for marginalized peoples and was particularly committed to Queer and Black Liberation. Vernon was a clear Taurus. He was intelligent, dependable, logical, honest, and generous. Vernon spent most of his life focused on making his community better. He was a holder of receipts. A maker of spreadsheets. A true community historian and archivist. Vernon was dedicated to making people safer, both in his career in emergency management and his activist work in the ght against AIDS. He was not a stranger to controversy and was unrelenting in speaking his truth and the truth of the people he loved. In the years before his death, Vernon worked hard to ensure that the legacy of LGBTQ activism in Tulsa was properly recorded and preserved for current and future generations. His substantial archive is now housed in Oklahoma State University’s Archives. This collection will be witnessed by researchers and community members for years to come. Vernon was a connector. He worked hard to bring people together and was always willing to give someone support that needed it. Even in his death, he is connecting individuals over their shared love and respect for him and his life. Vernon fought hard for his community and the legacy of his late partner Phil Wiley. Anyone who knew Vernon was graced with stories of Phil’s life and legacy as well as their love for one another. In lieu of owers, we ask that you remember Vernon by learning something new, taking a stand on social issues that are important to you, and keeping his life and legacy alive through storytelling. https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 2/4 2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Vernon’s memorial service will take place March 1 at 11 AM at Butler-Stump & Dyer Funeral Home (2103 E 3rd St, Tulsa, OK 74104). ABOUT US Butler-Stumpff & Dyer funeral home, crematory, cemetary “We will always be kind and we will never take advantage of you or your family at your saddest time” is our promise to you. BUTLER-STUMPFF & DYER FUNERAL HOME BUTLER-STUMPFF & DYER FUNERAL HOME  2103 E 3rd St Tulsa, OK 74104  (918) 587-7000  info@butler-stump.com  Available 24/7 https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 3/4 2/28/25, 2:45 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory VISIT US Butler-Stumpff … View larger map Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home Map data ©2025 Report a map error © Copyright 2025 | Butler-Stump & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory | Privacy Policy | All Rights Reserved | Blog https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 4/4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] Vernon Jones Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Vernon Leon Jones, May 3, 1935 - February 5, 2024 Description An account of the resource Four pages of an obituary for Vernon Leon Jones, who lived May 3, 1935 to February 5, 2024, published by Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home. A service was planned for March 1, 2024 at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource March 1, 2024 2024 Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home Butler-Stumpff and Dyer Butler-Stumpff and Dyer Funeral Home in memoriam memoriam Obituaries Obituary Oklahoma State University Oklahoma State University (OSU) Oklahoma State University Archives OSU OSU Archives Phil Wiley Vernon Jones Vernon Leon Jones https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/b99d33161d4277b4ec3675081d44639f.pdf 744e34f8ade15ce850b432c712f1601c PDF Text Text Michael Herbert Green November 20, 1946 - February 17, 2024 Michael Herbert Green was born November 20, 1946, to Lewis and Juliene Green in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He graduated from Capitol Hill High School where he was third in his class of over 900 and played Tuba in the band. It was during high school he met the love of his life Virginia, and they were married in January of 1965. Mike was an electrical contractor by trade and part of the IBEW Union 1141. He also had his own real estate company and was always looking for the next business venture. He was a master gardener, planting anything and everything, and sold hundreds of jars of his PawPaws Sneaky Pete Salsa. He loved to work in his shop, enjoyed woodworking, and making toys and puzzles. He was also a talented oil painter, and painted horses especially well. He was a Southern Baptist Deacon, and taught Sunday School for over 45 years. He loved talking about the Lord, and he and Virginia went on multiple mission trips with their church in their early years. He loved his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids with all his heart, and cherished anytime he had to spend with them. He was also a big prankster, and loved to make people laugh, oh and HE LOVED sweet tea, and always had it with him. He is survived by his forever love, wife of 59 years, Virginia Lee Green, his daughter Laura Manahan, and husband Chris of Edmond, Oklahoma; daughter Kristi Dunkle of Guthrie, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Tyler Manahan and his wife Kathy of Edmond, Oklahoma; Shelby Dunkle and her fiancé Michael Brooks Jr. of Oklahoma City, OK; Megan Millsap and husband Matthew of Yukon, Oklahoma; great grandchildren Zoey, Mia, Maverick and Myles, and sister Linda Green of Columbia, Missouri, and other nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his father Lewis, mother Juliene, and brothers Lewis and David. If he could leave you with any last thoughts they would be, make sure first and foremost, you have a relationship with Christ, enjoy your family and friends, eat dessert first, and bring him some sweet tea when he meets you at the gates. A service to remember and celebrate Michael's life will be held Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11:00AM at Crawford Family Funeral Service in Edmond. Visitation with the family will be held the evening prior from 5:00PM-7:00PM, Thursday, February 22, 2024. Burial will take place at Knowles Cemetery of rural Crescent, OK. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you please consider making a memorial donation to the Alzheimer's Association in. A link for making a donation may be found below under "Memorial Contributions". �Cemetery OAKLAND-KNOWLES CEMETERY W96H+VF Crescent, Oklahoma, Crescent, OK 73028 FUNERAL SERVICE Crawford Family Funeral & Cremation Service 610 N.W. 178th St., Edmond, OK 73012 Events 23 Feb 11:00 AM VISITATION 22 Feb 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Crawford Family Funeral & Cremation Service 610 N.W. 178th St., Edmond, OK 73012 �Tribute Wall Darvin B Bill I first met Mike in high school in 1963 at Capitol Hill High School. Mike had a mischievous side and he was always playing jokes on his friends. He was a most unusual person, friendly, a little reserved, with not a lot to say. He and Virginia met at high school and one day Mike told me they were getting married. I was honored that he asked me to be his Best Man. Even though those first few months were challenging, going to school, working evenings and week-ends, Mike would often invite me to his and Virginia's small apartment for lunch, to share a bologna sandwich. Mike was like that, reaching out to friends and family, to meet their needs. He made the most of whatever he had,"a life well lived." I'll miss you, Mike. Bill Darvin "Material_candle_green_thumbnail" was lit in memory of Michael Herbert Green Light a candle Show your support by giving a symbol of remembrance K Kristi Dunkle Thank you so much for writing this! Our whole family was glad you were at the service. Vlad J Janet Knowing Mike changed my life. His generosity and support as a brother-in-law were unparalleled. The world cannot be the same without him, but Heaven is certainly improved <3 "Material_candle_green_thumbnail" was lit in memory of Michael Herbert Green Light a candle Show your support by giving a symbol of remembrance K Kristi Dunkle Thank you Janet! It was great seeing you at the service! F Funeral Home Owner "Funeral Home Owner posted a video"  Watch now �Faith Bible Worship and Tech Teams We are praying for peace for your family during this time of mourning. "Beautiful in Blue" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Anonymous Reminding those whom you support that your thoughts are with them. "White Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers K Kristi Dunkle Love, Lori and Phil Kristi,You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Anonymous With love and prayers! "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. �Anonymous Our thoughts and prayers to your family.Lee and Mary Nirschl, Paul Pope, Kellie Burch, Cliff Pope and Kyle Pope "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Jaared & Jessica Scott May God bless you and your family during this difficult time. John 11:25 "White Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers & Susie Ziegler L Larry A wonderful man, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who will be missed. Michelle Keylon Laura and family, praying for your comfort and peace to face the days ahead and for loving memories to hold in your heart. "Purple Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. Francis Tuttle Board of Education Praying for peace and comfort for you and your family "Basket of Memories" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers �Francis Tuttle Foundation Dear Laura and family,Your Francis Tuttle family is thinking about you. "Serene Retreat" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Michael Herbert Green November 20, 1946 - February 17, 2024 Michael HerbertGreen was born November 20, 1946, to Lewis and Juliene Green in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He graduated from Capitol Hill High School where he was third in his class of over 900 and played Tuba in the band. Itwas during high school hemetthe love of his life Virginia, and they weremarried in January of 1965. Mikewas an electricalcontractor by trade and part of the IBEW Union 1141. He also had his own real estate company and was always looking for the next business venture. Hewas amaster gardener, planting anything and everything, and sold hundreds of jars of his PawPaws Sneaky Pete Salsa. He loved to work in his shop, enjoyed woodworking, andmaking toys and puzzles. Hewas also a talented oil painter, and painted horses especially well. Hewas a Southern BaptistDeacon, and taught Sunday School for over 45 years. He loved talking aboutthe Lord, and he and Virginia went onmultiplemission trips with theirchurch in their early years. He loved his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids with all his heart, and cherished anytime he had to spend with them. Hewas also a big prankster, and loved to make people laugh, oh and HE LOVED sweettea, and always had it with him. He is survived by his forever love,wife of 59 years, Virginia Lee Green, his daughter Laura Manahan, and husband Chris of Edmond, Oklahoma; daughter Kristi Dunkle of Guthrie, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Tyler Manahan and his wife Kathy of Edmond, Oklahoma; Shelby Dunkle and her fiancé Michael Brooks Jr. of Oklahoma City, OK; Megan Millsap and husband Matthew of Yukon, Oklahoma; great grandchildren Zoey, Mia, Maverick and Myles, and sister Linda Green of Columbia, Missouri, and other nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his father Lewis, mother Juliene, and brothers Lewis and David. If he could leave you with any last thoughts they would be, make sure first and foremost, you have a relationship with Christ, enjoy your family and friends, eat dessert first, and bring him some sweet tea when he meets you at the gates. A service to remember and celebrate Michael's life will be held Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11:00AM at Crawford Family Funeral Service in Edmond. Visitation with the family will be held the evening prior from 5:00PM-7:00PM, Thursday, February 22, 2024. Burial will take place at Knowles Cemetery of rural Crescent, OK. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you please consider making amemorial donation to the Alzheimer's Association in. A link formaking a donationmay be found belowunder "Memorial Contributions". Cemetery OAKLAND-KNOWLES CEMETERY W96H+VF Crescent, Oklahoma, Crescent, OK 73028 Events FUNERAL SERVICE 23 Feb 11:00 AM Crawford Family Funeral & Cremation Service 610 N.W. 178th St., Edmond, OK 73012 VISITATION Feb 22 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Crawford Family Funeral & Cremation Service 610 N.W. 178th St., Edmond, OK 73012 Tribute Wall Bill Darvin I first met Mike in high school in 1963 at Capitol Hill High School. Mike had amischievous side and hewas always playing jokes on his friends. Hewas amost unusual person, friendly, a little reserved,with not a lot to say. He and Virginia met at high school and one day Mike told me they were getting married. I was honored that he asked me to be his Best Man. Even though those firstfewmonths were challenging, going to school, working evenings and week-ends, Mike would often invite me to his and Virginia's small apartment for lunch, to share a bologna sandwich. Mike was like that, reaching out to friends and family, to meet their needs. He made the most of whatever he had,"a life well lived." I'll miss you, Mike. Bill Darvin "Material_candle_green_thumbnail" was lit in memory of Michael Herbert Green Light a candle Show your support by giving a symbol of remembrance Kristi Dunkle Thank you so much for writing this! Our whole family was glad you were at the service. Janet Vlad Knowing Mike changed my life. His generosity and support as a brother-in-lawwere unparalleled. The world cannot be the same without him, but Heaven is certainly improved <3 "Material_candle_green_thumbnail" was lit in memory of Michael Herbert Green Light a candle Show your support by giving a symbol of remembrance Kristi Dunkle Thank you Janet! It was great seeing you at the service! Funeral Home Owner "Funeral Home Owner posted a video"  Watch now Faith Bible Worship and Tech Teams We are praying for peace for your family during this time of mourning. Tribute Store "Beautiful in Blue" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Show your support with flowers Anonymous Reminding those whom you support that your thoughts are with them. "White Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Kristi Dunkle Love, Lori and Phil Kristi, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Anonymous With love and prayers! "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. Anonymous Our thoughts and prayers to your family. Lee and Mary Nirschl, Paul Pope, Kellie Burch, Cliff Pope and Kyle Pope Tribute Store "Florist's Choice Bouquet" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Show your support with flowers Jaared & Jessica Scott May God bless you and your family during this difficult time. John 11:25 "White Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Larry & Susie Ziegler A wonderful man, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who will be missed. Michelle Keylon Laura and family, praying for your comfort and peace to face the days ahead and for loving memories to hold in your heart. "Purple Florist's Choice" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. Francis Tuttle Board of Education Praying for peace and comfort for you and your family "Basket of Memories" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers Francis Tuttle Foundation Dear Laura and family, Your Francis Tuttle family is thinking about you. "Serene Retreat" was purchased for the family of Michael Herbert Green Tribute Store Show your support with flowers  A tree was also planted in memory of Michael Herbert Green. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] Mike Green Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Michael Herbert Green, November 20, 1946 - February 17, 2024 Description An account of the resource Six pages of an obituary for Michael Herbert Green, who lived November 20, 1946 to February 17, 2024, published by Crawford Family Funeral and Cremation Service. A service was planned for February 23, 2024 at Crawford Family Funeral and Cremation Service in Edmond, OK. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Crawford Family Funeral and Cremation Service Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.crawfordfuneralservice.com/obituaries/Michael-Herbert-Green?obId=30765360 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource February 23, 2024 2024 Capitol Hill High School Crawford Family Funeral and Cremation Service Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service Crawford Funeral Service Crescent Edmond IBEW Union IBEW Union 1141 in memoriam Knowles Cemetary memoriam Michael Green Michael Herbert Green Mike Green Mike Herbert Green Oakland-Knowles Cemetary Obituaries Obituary Oklahoma City https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/c1fbe5ab5f0233246a55755d0a693b99.pdf 09b9eda8ba412b2ffc86b548c78ac572 PDF Text Text Jack Wagoner III 1 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 Jack Wagoner III Aug 13, 1961 - Apr 23rd, 2024 Birth Date: Aug 13, 1961 Death Date: Apr 23, 2024 Funeral Date: Jun 15, 2024, 11:00 am Location: Murray Park, Pavilion 1, Little Rock, Arkansas Print this Obituary Biography: JACK WAGONER III passed away on April 23, 2024, at his home in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM �Jack Wagoner III 2 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 62. Jack, had he awoken, would have been grateful to have spent his last moments in the same house where he once drank his morning coffee (which he took with two sugars and enough milk to nearly defeat the point), taught his baby daughters how to walk, and blasted the Grateful Dead on full volume (much to the dismay of his family). Jack was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and grew up in the house in which he caused regular mischief throughout his teenage years – pranking his sisters, skateboarding in a handstand down the neighborhood’s steep hill, and, in one event, taking advantage of his parents’ absence to throw a party that resulted in dozens of cars lined down the street and only minor property damage (but which was cleaned so thoroughly and efficiently that his parents only realized after a neighbor, upset by the noise, informed them upon their return). At 40, he later married his wife Joyce in the same house – the two of them wed in his parents’ living room, clad not in tux and gown, but rather blue jeans and t-shirts, their families packed in around them. Jack worked as an attorney for 34 years, during which time he always positioned himself firmly on the side of the underdog, and fought to improve the circumstances of those who didn’t have much of a fighting chance. Jack’s readiness to help those in need also manifested itself in the form of spasmodic acts of generosity enacted on the behalf of random strangers: such as the time he engaged a Waffle House employee in conversation during the breakfast rush of a Christmas morning, and tipped her a one hundred dollar bill. Jack’s job as an attorney also presented itself in the familial sphere, where he would engage in lively debates with his daughters over anything and everything (and, on occasion, lost). Jack’s family will remember him as a man who laughed a bit too loud and spoke a bit too much. More than that, though, they will remember him as a man who tried very hard, and who loved very much. In lieu of flowers, please consider playing to yourself “Ripple” by the Grateful Dead, and sing along if you know the words. It was his favorite song. All friends and family are welcome to a celebration of Jack’s life at Murray Park, Pavilion 1 on June 15, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. We will laugh, cry, hear from some folks whom Jack admired greatly, and of course have live music. Bring your folding chairs and sit awhile. We’ll all be there to send him off with joy and love. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com Condolences(18) Heather Jun 13th, 2024 8:17 pm # 18 My family and I were one of those “underdogs” Jack represented, fighting for us and winning against one of the most corrupt attorneys in Little Rock. I’m forever indebted for the kindness he showed toward me and my case. This news 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM �Jack Wagoner III 3 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 just shook me. We need more Jack Wagoners in the world. Rest in peace, awesome soul. Josh Coleman Jun 13th, 2024 4:58 pm # 17 We miss you Jack. “Would you hear my voice come through the music? Would you hold it near as it were your own?”. It’s been a tough few months without you here. I’ve thought about you many times along my adventures. I miss checking my phone to see enthusiastic texts or voicemails from you to keep me informed about something new and exciting going on. I kept feeling like I’d run into you at the sphere Vegas shows. I won’t be able to make it to the memorial, but you’ll live on in my memory forever. RIP Jack. Much love to you and your family. Bobby Hamilton May 29th, 2024 9:06 am # 16 I knew Jack for about 47years. We grew up not far from each other though never spent a lot of time together. He was someone I wanted to be around more as we shared an enthusiasm I can only describe as a zest for life and the need for inclusiveness. I would run into Jack from time to time as my family negotiated the foster care system. He was always doing what I thought a real lawyer would want to do, representing the less powerful. Thank you Jack, for fighting the good fight with a gleam in your eyes and a belief that it was working. I believe it too. Susan Jones Boe May 27th, 2024 9:39 am # 15 My brothers and I grew up with the Wagoner family and witnessed first hand the wonderful mischief of Jack! We are all so sorry for your loss. May his memory and the admiration of those who knew him bring you comfort in the years to come. Sandy Lewis Roberts May 20th, 2024 10:47 pm # 14 I’m so sorry to hear that Jack is gone. He was smart, witty, and absolutely one if a kind. He also had a huge and generous heart that he could not always hide. He was loved very much and will be missed by so many people, including me. My heart goes out to Joyce and his girls who I know, without a doubt, he loved so much. My prayers are with you and your daughters, Joyce. Please know I’m there for you on any day at anytime. Love you so much, Sandy Jean Blume May 16th, 2024 1:03 pm # 13 Jack my heart is broken, I love you! My thoughts and prayers to Joyce, Erin and Kylie, the ones you loved the most. 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM �Jack Wagoner III 4 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 You are now part of the Ripple in Gods Heavenly Kingdom. You will be greatly missed by all you have touched here on this earth. R.I.P. and love Jack. Trey Moore May 14th, 2024 1:29 pm # 12 Jack was a good man and a good friend and he is missed by many. Love you Jack, see ya on the flip side. Dave Wilson May 14th, 2024 12:45 pm # 11 Always moving to hear of your love for wife and daughters. Rest in peace, and God Bless your loved ones. Candice Murphy May 13th, 2024 8:36 pm # 10 I knew several of Jack’s family members from many great years at Trinity United Methodist Church. But I met Jack through our mutual friend Sean Harrison, who invited Jack over to see him perform at our first Home Concert in Leawood a year ago. It was such a special night and Jack let me know multiple times afterwards how much he enjoyed it. Sean’s performance was awesome, the weather was perfect, and I loved seeing those good friends spending time together. I’m so sorry he left too soon. Too many of the good ones do.Love to the family, Sean, and others who will miss him. — Candy Murphy Jill B May 13th, 2024 6:53 pm #9 May 13th, 2024 6:13 pm #8 Jack helped me and drove me crazy all at the same time. RIP Terry Barket My late husband, Gary, so enjoyed “Jack time”, both professionally and leisurely. Recently, I became reacquainted with Jack and he helped me with a legal problem…with a good result. I shall miss him deeply and remember him fondly. I hold Joyce and the twins close in my heart and prayers. Buzz Plumley May 13th, 2024 5:00 pm #7 May 13th, 2024 4:48 pm #6 Loved to hear Jack share his experience , strength and hope in AA meetings . Evans family Our thoughts and prayers are with your family Continue to rely on God and know that he hears your prayers, because he cares for you. Thinking of you all. 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM �Jack Wagoner III 5 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 Tom Kelly May 13th, 2024 1:51 pm #5 May 13th, 2024 1:42 pm #4 Gone too soon. Rest in peace Jack. Love to your family. Robin Mays So glad I got to spend some time with you, Jack and your girls in Charleston last year. Jack and I had such a good visit while you and girls were shopping. I know what a shock it was to you as well as to his friends and sisters. He will be missed by many, and I know his daughters will carry his memory in everything they do. Greg BRUCE May 13th, 2024 11:48 am #3 May 13th, 2024 9:59 am #2 May 12th, 2024 11:11 pm #1 Thank you for everything you for our community. Cathy Jones "Ripple" is my favorite as well. Rest in peace. Roger Amick Rest in peace. Leave your Condolence * Your Name * Your Email (will not be published) Condolence * Enter verification code = 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM �Jack Wagoner III 6 of 6 https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 SUBMIT 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Jack Wagoner III Aug 13, 1961 - Apr 23rd, 2024 Birth Date: Aug 13, 1961 Death Date: Apr 23, 2024 Funeral Date: Jun 15, 2024, 11:00 am Location: Murray Park, Pavilion 1, Little Rock, Arkansas Print this Obituary Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 1 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM Biography: JACK WAGONER III passed away on April 23, 2024, at his home in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 62. Jack, had he awoken, would have been grateful to have spent his last moments in the same house where he once drank his morning coffee (which he took with two sugars and enough milk to nearly defeat the point), taught his baby daughters how to walk, and blasted the Grateful Dead on full volume (much to the dismay of his family). Jack was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and grew up in the house in which he caused regular mischief throughout his teenage years – pranking his sisters, skateboarding in a handstand down the neighborhood’s steep hill, and, in one event, taking advantage of his parents’ absence to throw a party that resulted in dozens of cars lined down the street and only minor property damage (but which was cleaned so thoroughly and efficiently that his parents only realized after a neighbor, upset by the noise, informed them upon their return). At 40, he later married his wife Joyce in the same house – the two of them wed in his parents’ living room, clad not in tux and gown, but rather blue jeans and t-shirts, their families packed in around them. Jack worked as an attorney for 34 years, during which time he always positioned himself firmly on the side of the underdog, and fought to improve the circumstances of those who didn’t have much of a fighting chance. Jack’s readiness to help those in need also manifested itself in the form of spasmodic acts of generosity enacted on the behalf of random strangers: such as the time he engaged a Waffle House employee in conversation during the breakfast rush of a Christmas morning, and tipped her a one hundred dollar bill. Jack’s job as an attorney also presented itself in the familial sphere, where he would engage in lively debates with his daughters over anything and everything (and, on occasion, lost). Jack’s family will remember him as a man who laughed a bit too loud and spoke a bit too much. More than that, though, they will remember him as a man who tried very hard, and who loved very much. In lieu of flowers, please consider playing to yourself “Ripple” by the Grateful Dead, and sing along if you know the words. It was his favorite song. All friends and family are welcome to a celebration of Jack’s life at Murray Park, Pavilion 1 on June 15, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. We will laugh, cry, hear from some folks whom Jack admired greatly, and of course have live music. Bring your folding chairs and sit awhile. We’ll all be there to send him off with joy and love. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com Condolences(18) Heather Jun 13th, 2024 8:17 pm # 18 My family and I were one of those “underdogs” Jack represented, fighting for us and winning against one of the most corrupt attorneys in Little Rock. I’m forever indebted for the kindness he showed toward me and my case. This news just shook me. We need more Jack Wagoners in the world. Rest in peace, awesome soul. Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 2 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM Josh Coleman Jun 13th, 2024 4:58 pm # 17 We miss you Jack. “Would you hear my voice come through the music? Would you hold it near as it were your own?”. It’s been a tough few months without you here. I’ve thought about you many times along my adventures. I miss checking my phone to see enthusiastic texts or voicemails from you to keep me informed about something new and exciting going on. I kept feeling like I’d run into you at the sphere Vegas shows. I won’t be able to make it to the memorial, but you’ll live on in my memory forever. RIP Jack. Much love to you and your family. Bobby Hamilton May 29th, 2024 9:06 am # 16 I knew Jack for about 47years. We grew up not far from each other though never spent a lot of time together. He was someone I wanted to be around more as we shared an enthusiasm I can only describe as a zest for life and the need for inclusiveness. I would run into Jack from time to time as my family negotiated the foster care system. He was always doing what I thought a real lawyer would want to do, representing the less powerful. Thank you Jack, for fighting the good fight with a gleam in your eyes and a belief that it was working. I believe it too. Susan Jones Boe May 27th, 2024 9:39 am # 15 My brothers and I grew up with the Wagoner family and witnessed first hand the wonderful mischief of Jack! We are all so sorry for your loss. May his memory and the admiration of those who knew him bring you comfort in the years to come. Sandy Lewis Roberts May 20th, 2024 10:47 pm # 14 I’m so sorry to hear that Jack is gone. He was smart, witty, and absolutely one if a kind. He also had a huge and generous heart that he could not always hide. He was loved very much and will be missed by so many people, including me. My heart goes out to Joyce and his girls who I know, without a doubt, he loved so much. My prayers are with you and your daughters, Joyce. Please know I’m there for you on any day at anytime. Love you so much, Sandy Jean Blume May 16th, 2024 1:03 pm # 13 Jack my heart is broken, I love you! My thoughts and prayers to Joyce, Erin and Kylie, the ones you loved the most. You are now part of the Ripple in Gods Heavenly Kingdom. You will be greatly missed by all you have touched here on this earth. R.I.P. and love Jack. Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 3 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM Trey Moore May 14th, 2024 1:29 pm # 12 Jack was a good man and a good friend and he is missed by many. Love you Jack, see ya on the flip side. Dave Wilson May 14th, 2024 12:45 pm # 11 Always moving to hear of your love for wife and daughters. Rest in peace, and God Bless your loved ones. Candice Murphy May 13th, 2024 8:36 pm # 10 I knew several of Jack’s family members from many great years at Trinity United Methodist Church. But I met Jack through our mutual friend Sean Harrison, who invited Jack over to see him perform at our first Home Concert in Leawood a year ago. It was such a special night and Jack let me know multiple times afterwards how much he enjoyed it. Sean’s performance was awesome, the weather was perfect, and I loved seeing those good friends spending time together. I’m so sorry he left too soon. Too many of the good ones do.Love to the family, Sean, and others who will miss him. — Candy Murphy Jill B May 13th, 2024 6:53 pm # 9 Jack helped me and drove me crazy all at the same time. RIP Terry Barket May 13th, 2024 6:13 pm # 8 My late husband, Gary, so enjoyed “Jack time”, both professionally and leisurely. Recently, I became reacquainted with Jack and he helped me with a legal problem…with a good result. I shall miss him deeply and remember him fondly. I hold Joyce and the twins close in my heart and prayers. Buzz Plumley May 13th, 2024 5:00 pm # 7 Loved to hear Jack share his experience , strength and hope in AA meetings . Evans family May 13th, 2024 4:48 pm # 6 Our thoughts and prayers are with your family Continue to rely on God and know that he hears your prayers, because he cares for you. Thinking of you all. Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 4 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM Tom Kelly May 13th, 2024 1:51 pm # 5 Gone too soon. Rest in peace Jack. Love to your family. Robin Mays May 13th, 2024 1:42 pm # 4 So glad I got to spend some time with you, Jack and your girls in Charleston last year. Jack and I had such a good visit while you and girls were shopping. I know what a shock it was to you as well as to his friends and sisters. He will be missed by many, and I know his daughters will carry his memory in everything they do. Greg BRUCE May 13th, 2024 11:48 am # 3 Thank you for everything you for our community. Cathy Jones May 13th, 2024 9:59 am # 2 "Ripple" is my favorite as well. Rest in peace. Roger Amick May 12th, 2024 11:11 pm # 1 Rest in peace. Leave your Condolence * Your Name * Your Email (will not be published) Condolence * Enter verification code Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 5 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM SUBMIT Jack Wagoner III https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 6 of 6 2/21/2025, 3:11 PM Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] Jack Wagoner Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Jack Wagoner III, August 13, 1961 - April 23, 2024 Description An account of the resource Six pages of an obituary for Jack Wagoner III, who lived August 13, 1961 to April 23, 2024, published by Ruebel Funeral Home, including comments left by guests. A memorial service was planned for June 15, 2024 at Murray Park in Arkansas. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ruebel Funeral Home Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource May 12, 2024 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://ruebelfuneralhome.com/obits/preview.php?id=3388 2024 Arkansas in memoriam Jack Wagoner Jack Wagoner III Little Rock memoriam Obituaries Obituary Ruebel Funeral Home https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/3fb8c41a62ae84cb5481a62b96914dd0.pdf 2ce75f7fef49928ca38893b4c6fb7c75 PDF Text Text 2/6/25, 3:31 PM (/) Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service 3959 E 31st St Tulsa, OK 74135 918-743-6271 (tel:1-918-743-6271) Share this obituary  (mailto:?subject=Obituary for Nancy McDonald&body=Obituary%20for%20Nancy%20%20McDonald%0A%0AView%20details%20at%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stanleysfuneralhome.com%2Fobituary%2Fnanc mcdonald%0A%0ABrought%20to%20you%20by%20Stanleys%20Funeral%20%26%20Cremation%20Service%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.stanleysfuneralhome.com)  (tel:9187436271) https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald Privacy - Terms 1/4 �2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service SEND FLOWERS Order Flowers for the Family SEND A CARD Show Your Sympathy to the Family (https://www.st mcdonald/flowe campaign=obitu flowers-ctaleftside) (https://www.st mcdonald/cards campaign=obitu cards-ctaleftside)  Sign Guestbook  View Guestbook Entries (/guestbook/8721811)  Print Obituary (/obituaries/print?o_id=8721811) Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma June 4, 1936 - October 24, 2023 Nancy McDonald, a longtime Tulsa community volunteer and activist, died Tuesday. She was 87. A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Nov. 12 at All Souls Unitarian Church, with a reception to follow. Per McDonald’s wishes, her family invites everyone attending the reception to bring homemade cookies. Known for her vision and tenacity, McDonald was a force for change in Tulsa for well over 50 years, embracing a variety of causes including public school integration, the arts and LGBTQ rights. Notably with the latter, her influence extended throughout Oklahoma and beyond. McDonald and her husband, Joe, were the founders of the Tulsa chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, the first in Oklahoma, and she later served as president of the national PFLAG organization. It was during her tenure as president, in 1998, that the organization extended its mission to include transgender people. McDonald was active on a state and national level in promoting legislation that advanced LGBTQ rights. And when a proposed law threatened that advancement, she was there to fight it. That included testifying before Congress in 1996 in opposition to the federal Defense of Marriage Act. Toby Jenkins, former director of Oklahomans for Equality, said McDonald was a source of needed encouragement for her fellow LGBTQ rights advocates, assuring them that “incrementally, bit by bit, relationships would form and change would come.” “Nancy taught us to show respect and civility to everyone, even if they were hateful to you,” Jenkins said. “If they spoke that way, she believed it was just that their hearts and minds had not been opened or challenged. Eventually the change of heart would come. I will miss that most about her.” A Nebraska native and graduate of the University of Nebraska, McDonald moved to Tulsa with her family in 1966. She didn’t waste any time getting involved in her new community. As a parent of school-age children and PTA member, she joined a small group of Tulsa Public Schools parents in helping with voluntary integration, starting with Burroughs Elementary School. Then, in 1973, district officials turned to McDonald to help integrate Booker T. Washington High School. Chairing a committee for volunteer recruitment, McDonald led the successful effort to recruit white student volunteers to attend the previously all-Black school, holding a series of meetings with students and parents. Her volunteering led to a full-time job with TPS, coordinating volunteers and leading the further development of the magnet school concept. Motivating more community volunteers to get involved in their public schools was at the heart of McDonald’s love for the Partners in Education program. She participated in a related White House Symposium and wrote the guidelines for PIE groups that were published as a book. She remained involved with PIE through the end of her life. McDonald was also passionate about scouting. She was a former board member and president of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma. In that role, she helped guide the organization through the tumultuous time following the 1977 murders of three girls at summer camp. McDonald was recipient of a number of honors and awards. They included induction into the Tulsa Hall of Fame and the dedication of the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library in her and her husband’s honor at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. McDonald’s commitment to the LGBTQ cause began in the 1980s when one of her daughters came out as a lesbian. The experience of supporting her daughter would shape McDonald, and later she became a mother figure to many LGBTQ people who found themselves facing alienation from friends and family. “We called her ‘everybody’s mother,’” Jenkins said. “She was a surrogate parent for so many whose families had rejected them or had not accepted or understood them. There are national LGBTQ leaders who came out of Oklahoma who Nancy mentored about family relationships.” And her motherly influence didn’t end with the LGBTQ community, Jenkins said. “If anyone was marginalized, it became her cause,” he said. Morva McDonald, McDonald’s daughter, said her mother was “just so good at seeing every individual.” “At her core, she was always trying her best to help people be seen, be recognized for who they were. And that’s what allowed her to reach across so many different (tel:9187436271) causes and arenas.”  https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 2/4 �2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service “The issue for her was always helping people be seen. It was a tremendous gift.” For her mother, part of valuing people as individuals included helping them find ways to participate, Morva added. “That’s why we’re asking people to bring homemade cookies to the reception. It was her idea. Baking was a favorite activity of Mom’s with her grandchildren. “Even at the end she was thinking about how everyone could share and participate.” McDonald’s survivors include her husband, Joe McDonald; four children, JoElyn Newcomb, Paul McDonald, Jason McDonald and Morva McDonald; eight grandchildren; a brother, Howard Nellor; and a sister, Sharlene Clatanoff. Memorial donations may be made to the Foundation for Tulsa Schools’ Partners in Education program. Services Celebration of Life Sunday, November 12, 2023 4:00 PM All Souls Unitarian Church 2952 S. Peoria Ave Tulsa, OK 74114  Open Google Maps  Email Details (mailto:?subject=Celebration%20of%20Life for Nancy McDonald&body=Celebration%20of%20Life%20for%20Nancy%20%20McDonald%0A%0ASunday% Sign Guestbook Name:  Name (required) Location: Location Video: Link to Video (Youtube or Vimeo) Image: Choose File No file chosen Light A Candle Candle 1 Candle 2 Candle 3 Candle 4 Email:  Email (required) Personal Message:  Personal Message (required)  Confirm:  (tel:9187436271) https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 3/4 �2/6/25, 3:31 PM I'm not a robot Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service reCAPTCHA Privacy - Terms Submit Guestbook entry 3959 E 31st St Tulsa, OK 74135  918-743-6271 (tel:918-743-6271)  918-743-5790  Join our mailing list (/subscribe)  info@stanleysfuneralhome.com (mailto:info@stanleysfuneralhome.com) © Copyright 2019 - 25 Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document (/) 3959 E 31st St Tulsa, OK 74135 918-743-6271 (tel:1-918-743-6271) Share this obituary  (mailto:?subject=Obituary for Nancy McDonald&body=Obituary%20for%20Nancy%20%20McDonald%0A%0AView%20details%20at%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stanleysfuneralhome.com%2Fobituary%2Fnancymcdonald%0A%0ABrought%20to%20you%20by%20Stanleys%20Funeral%20%26%20Cremation%20Service%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.stanleysfuneralhome.com)  (tel:9187436271) Privacy - Terms 2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 1/4  Sign Guestbook  View Guestbook Entries (/guestbook/8721811)  Print Obituary (/obituaries/print?o_id=8721811) Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma June 4, 1936 - October 24, 2023 Nancy McDonald, a longtime Tulsa community volunteer and activist, died Tuesday. She was 87. A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Nov. 12 at All Souls Unitarian Church, with a reception to follow. Per McDonald’s wishes, her family invites everyone attending the reception to bring homemade cookies. Known for her vision and tenacity, McDonald was a force for change in Tulsa for well over 50 years, embracing a variety of causes including public school integration, the arts and LGBTQ rights. Notably with the latter, her inuence extended throughout Oklahoma and beyond. McDonald and her husband, Joe, were the founders of the Tulsa chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, the rst in Oklahoma, and she later served as president of the national PFLAG organization. It was during her tenure as president, in 1998, that the organization extended its mission to include transgender people. McDonald was active on a state and national level in promoting legislation that advanced LGBTQ rights. And when a proposed law threatened that advancement, she was there to ght it. That included testifying before Congress in 1996 in opposition to the federal Defense of Marriage Act. Toby Jenkins, former director of Oklahomans for Equality, said McDonald was a source of needed encouragement for her fellow LGBTQ rights advocates, assuring them that “incrementally, bit by bit, relationships would form and change would come.” “Nancy taught us to show respect and civility to everyone, even if they were hateful to you,” Jenkins said. “If they spoke that way, she believed it was just that their hearts and minds had not been opened or challenged. Eventually the change of heart would come. I will miss that most about her.” A Nebraska native and graduate of the University of Nebraska, McDonald moved to Tulsa with her family in 1966. She didn’t waste any time getting involved in her new community. As a parent of school-age children and PTA member, she joined a small group of Tulsa Public Schools parents in helping with voluntary integration, starting with Burroughs Elementary School. Then, in 1973, district ocials turned to McDonald to help integrate Booker T. Washington High School. Chairing a committee for volunteer recruitment, McDonald led the successful eort to recruit white student volunteers to attend the previously all-Black school, holding a series of meetings with students and parents. Her volunteering led to a full-time job with TPS, coordinating volunteers and leading the further development of the magnet school concept. Motivating more community volunteers to get involved in their public schools was at the heart of McDonald’s love for the Partners in Education program. She participated in a related White House Symposium and wrote the guidelines for PIE groups that were published as a book. She remained involved with PIE through the end of her life. McDonald was also passionate about scouting. She was a former board member and president of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma. In that role, she helped guide the organization through the tumultuous time following the 1977 murders of three girls at summer camp. McDonald was recipient of a number of honors and awards. They included induction into the Tulsa Hall of Fame and the dedication of the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library in her and her husband’s honor at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. McDonald’s commitment to the LGBTQ cause began in the 1980s when one of her daughters came out as a lesbian. The experience of supporting her daughter would shape McDonald, and later she became a mother gure to many LGBTQ people who found themselves facing alienation from friends and family. “We called her ‘everybody’s mother,’” Jenkins said. “She was a surrogate parent for so many whose families had rejected them or had not accepted or understood them. There are national LGBTQ leaders who came out of Oklahoma who Nancy mentored about family relationships.” And her motherly inuence didn’t end with the LGBTQ community, Jenkins said. “If anyone was marginalized, it became her cause,” he said. Morva McDonald, McDonald’s daughter, said her mother was “just so good at seeing every individual.” “At her core, she was always trying her best to help people be seen, be recognized for who they were. And that’s what allowed her to reach across so many different causes and arenas.” SEND A CARD Show Your Sympathy to the Family (https://www.stmcdonald/cardscampaign=obitucards-ctaleftside) SEND FLOWERS Order Flowers for the Family (https://www.stmcdonald/flowercampaign=obituowers-ctaleftside)  (tel:9187436271) 2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 2/4 “The issue for her was always helping people be seen. It was a tremendous gift.” For her mother, part of valuing people as individuals included helping them nd ways to participate, Morva added. “That’s why we’re asking people to bring homemade cookies to the reception. It was her idea. Baking was a favorite activity of Mom’s with her grandchildren. “Even at the end she was thinking about how everyone could share and participate.” McDonald’s survivors include her husband, Joe McDonald; four children, JoElyn Newcomb, Paul McDonald, Jason McDonald and Morva McDonald; eight sgrandchildren; a brother, Howard Nellor; and a sister, Sharlene Clatano. Memorial donations may be made to the Foundation for Tulsa Schools’ Partners in Education program. Services Celebration of Life Sunday, November 12, 2023 4:00 PM All Souls Unitarian Church 2952 S. Peoria Ave Tulsa, OK 74114  Open Google Maps  Email Details (mailto:?subject=Celebration%20of%20Life for NancyMcDonald&body=Celebration%20of%20Life%20for%20Nancy%20%20McDonald%0A%0ASunday%) Sign Guestbook Name:  Name (required) Location: Location Video: Link to Video (Youtube or Vimeo) Image: Choose File No File chosen Light A Candle Candle 1 Candle 2 Candle 3 Candle 4 Email:  Email (required) Personal Message:  Personal Message (required) Confirm:  (tel:9187436271) 2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 3/4 reCAPTCHA I'm not a robot Privacy - Terms Submit Guestbook entry 3959 E 31st St Tulsa, OK 74135  918-743-6271 (tel:918-743-6271)  918-743-5790  Join our mailing list (/subscribe)  info@stanleysfuneralhome.com (mailto:info@stanleysfuneralhome.com) © Copyright 2019 - 25 Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service. All Rights Reserved. | Funeral Home Website by Batesville® (https://www.batesvilletechnology.com) | Funeral Planning and Grief Resources (https://www.batesville.com/for-families/) |Terms of Use (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/conditions) | Privacy Policy (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/privacy) Home (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/) | About Us (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/about-us) | Cremation (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/section/cremation) | Burial (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/section/burial) | Veterans (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/section/veterans) | Obituaries (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obits) | Contact & Location (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/section/contact-location) | Blog (https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/section/blog) |  Admin (/admin)  (tel:9187436271) 2/6/25, 3:31 PM Obituary | Nancy McDonald of Tulsa, Oklahoma | Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 4/4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2023] Nancy McDonald Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Nancy McDonald, June 4, 1936 - October 24, 2023 Description An account of the resource Four pages of an obituary for Nancy McDonald, who lived June 4, 1936 to October 24, 2023, published by Stanleys Funeral and Cremation Service. A service was planned for November 12, 2023 at All Souls Unitarian Church. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Stanleys Funeral and Cremation Service Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource November 12, 2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.stanleysfuneralhome.com/obituary/nancy-mcdonald 2023 ALL SOULS UNITARIAN CHURCH Booker T. Washington High School Burroughs Elementary School Defense of Marriage Act Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Equality Center Foundation for Tulsa Schools Partners in Education Program Girl Scouts Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma in memoriam Joe McDonald memoriam Morva McDonald Nancy and Dr. Joe McDonald Nancy and Joe McDonald Nancy McDonald Nancy McDonald Rainbow Library Obituaries Obituary OkEq Equality Center Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Parents Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays Parents Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Partners in Education Partners in Education (PIE) Partners in Education Program PFLAG PIE Rainbow Library Toby Jenkins TPS Tulsa Public Schools Tulsa Public Schools (TPS) Tulsa Schools Partners in Education University of Nebraska https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/fc1bfc45488d1e358856894ddc159604.pdf f5736a974b6870b949c3192ece087cfe PDF Text Text 1/31/25, 2:47 PM garykelleyafs.com/obituaries/print?o_id=9040539 Gary Kelley’s Add’Vantage Funeral Service Dwight Alan Kealiher ( August 27, 1937 - August 15, 2024 ) Dwight Alan Kealiher, 86, certified public accountant and resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma passed away Thursday, August 15, 2024. He was born Friday, August 27, 1937 in Checotah, Oklahoma to Paul Kealiher and Zadee (Wessinger) Kealiher. Memorial service 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at All Souls Unitarian Church, 2952 South Peoria, Tulsa, Oklahoma. https://www.garykelleyafs.com/obituaries/print?o_id=9040539 1/1 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <h2>Gary Kelley’s Add’Vantage Funeral Service</h2> <h3>Dwight Alan Kealiher</h3> ( August 27, 1937 - August 15, 2024 ) <div> Dwight Alan Kealiher, 86, certified public accountant and resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma passed away Thursday, August 15, 2024. He was born Friday, August 27, 1937 in Checotah, Oklahoma to Paul Kealiher and Zadee (Wessinger) Kealiher. Memorial service 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at All Souls Unitarian Church, 2952 South Peoria, Tulsa, Oklahoma. </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2024] Dwight Kealiher Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Dwight Alan Kealiher, August 27, 1937 - August 15, 2024 Description An account of the resource One page of an obituary for Dwight Alan Kealiher uploaded by Gary Kelley's Add'Vantage Funeral Service. Dwight lived August 27, 1937 to August 15, 2024. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Gary Kelley's Add'Vantage Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.garykelleyafs.com/obituary/dwight-kealiher Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 4, 2024 2024 ALL SOULS UNITARIAN CHURCH Dwight Kealiher Gary Kelley's Add'Vantage Funeral Service Gary Kelley's Funeral Service in memoriam memoriam Obituaries Obituary https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/f3f1c9294f85795138455775d154780c.pdf 873a286679843ca4173a354fad9b1479 PDF Text Text 1/31/25, 2:25 PM Robert Cisar Obituary (2006) - Tulsa, OK - Tulsa World Search by Name Robert S Cisar Jr. Send Flowers Share FUNERAL HOME Follow Stanleys Funeral & Cremation Service 3959 East 31st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma RECORDS View more records for Cisar on Ancestry.com® Sponsored Robert Cisar Obituary C ISAR -- Robert S., Jr., began his life's journey February 18, 1942 in Oklahoma City. His "fabulous" journey ended Friday, March 10, 2006, in Tulsa, OK which had been his home since the early 1970s. Robert was preceded in death by, his loving parents, Zelma and Dr. Robert S. Cisar, Sr. He is survived by: his life partner of 21 years, Kirk Holt; cousins, John and Jim McArdle and their families of Tucson and Phoenix, AZ; 3 cousins, on the west coast; and lifetime friend, Paul Thomas and his family of Oklahoma City. Robert also leaves many wonderful friends who traveled with him as he made his https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tulsaworld/name/robert-cisar-obituary?id=6865448 1/11 �1/31/25, 2:25 PM Robert Cisar Obituary (2006) - Tulsa, OK - Tulsa World life's journey. During his brief illness, Robert was able to celebrate his life with those he dearly loved. After serving in the Army and a tour in Vietnam where he was a Surgical Nurse, Robert started interior home painting, then paper hanging, then home remodeling before realizing that he had a gift for interior design. Thus evolved into his and Kirk's business, Cisar-Holt, Inc. He loved his work and cherished the relationships they made with their many clients across the United States and abroad over the years. Robert will be remembered and celebrated as a man who loved life, as a humanitarian, a man of vision and integrity who deeply believed in equality. He was always supportive of his friends. He generously and willingly lent his support to many local organizations that are about helping others. It had been Robert's gift of sharing and giving back to others that endeared him to so many. In lieu of flowers Robert had requested contributions be made to Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights (TOHR). Robert was one of the founders of TOHR. Recently, the TOHR organization purchased its first building. Robert had looked forward to being a part of the team which will transform the building into a community center. Please send contributions to TOHR, Pyramid Project, P.O. Box 2687, Tulsa, OK 74101 and note Robert Cisar Memorial Fund. Service will be 4 p.m., Thursday, March 16, 2006 at All Souls Unitarian Church. Stanleys, 743-6271. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. Published by Tulsa World on Mar. 14, 2006. Cisar Pages See more records on Ancestry® https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tulsaworld/name/robert-cisar-obituary?id=6865448 2/11 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document <h1 class="Box-sc-ucqo0b-0 HeadingBase___StyledBox-sc-1jlt23t-0 cTwbCP cNDfOi">Robert Cisar Obituary</h1> <div class="Box-sc-ucqo0b-0 kbVUcj ObituaryText___StyledTextBase-sc-12f7zd1-0 inFMmj">CISAR -- Robert S., Jr., began his life's journey February 18, 1942 in Oklahoma City. His "fabulous" journey ended Friday, March 10, 2006, in Tulsa, OK which had been his home since the early 1970s. Robert was preceded in death by, his loving parents, Zelma and Dr. Robert S. Cisar, Sr. He is survived by: his life partner of 21 years, Kirk Holt; cousins, John and Jim McArdle and their families of Tucson and Phoenix, AZ; 3 cousins, on the west coast; and lifetime friend, Paul Thomas and his family of Oklahoma City. Robert also leaves many wonderful friends who traveled with him as he made his life's journey. During his brief illness, Robert was able to celebrate his life with those he dearly loved. After serving in the Army and a tour in Vietnam where he was a Surgical Nurse, Robert started interior home painting, then paper hanging, then home remodeling before realizing that he had a gift for interior design. Thus evolved into his and Kirk's business, Cisar-Holt, Inc. He loved his work and cherished the relationships they made with their many clients across the United States and abroad over the years. Robert will be remembered and celebrated as a man who loved life, as a humanitarian, a man of vision and integrity who deeply believed in equality. He was always supportive of his friends. He generously and willingly lent his support to many local organizations that are about helping others. It had been Robert's gift of sharing and giving back to others that endeared him to so many. In lieu of flowers Robert had requested contributions be made to Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights (TOHR). Robert was one of the founders of TOHR. Recently, the TOHR organization purchased its first building. Robert had looked forward to being a part of the team which will transform the building into a community center. Please send contributions to TOHR, Pyramid Project, P.O. Box 2687, Tulsa, OK 74101 and note Robert Cisar Memorial Fund. Service will be 4 p.m., Thursday, March 16, 2006 at All Souls Unitarian Church. Stanleys, 743-6271.</div> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2006] Bob Cisar Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Robert S. Cisar Jr., February 18, 1942 - March 10, 2006 Description An account of the resource Two pages of an obituary for Robert S. Cisar Jr., who lived February 18, 1942 to March 10, 2006, published by Tulsa World on March 14, 2006. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tulsa World Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tulsaworld/name/robert-cisar-obituary?id=6865448 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource March 14, 2006 2006 Bob Cisar Cisar Holt Inc Cisar-Holt Inc. in memoriam Kirk Holt memoriam Obituaries Obituary Pyramid Project Pyramid Project fundraising Robert S Cisar Robert S Cisar Jr Robert S. Cisar Robert S. Cisar Jr. Stanley's Funeral and Cremation Stanleys Funeral and Cremation Service TOHR TOHR Pyramid Project Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights (TOHR) Tulsa World https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/5ec5cfc91ad354158984d17c00b85e0c.pdf 8e19216935206d5e73c3194ad6301e64 PDF Text Text 1/31/25, 1:25 PM ninde.com/tribute-ajax/print-obituary.html?id=1539 Rex Ball Rex Martin Ball was born June 14th, 1934 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Ralph Martin and Sarah Mae (Kellner) Ball. Rex, an internationally known architect, urban designer, and champion of historic preservation efforts is also remembered as a beloved mentor and staunch human rights advocate, who was as intent on improving the lives around him as he was on improving society. A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Friday at the Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. A visitation is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ninde Brookside Funeral Home. Rex, graduated at the age of 16 valedictorian of his class at Kemper Military School. He then attended Oklahoma State University obtaining his Bachelor's Degree in architecture. His education continued at MIT where he obtained a Master of Architecture degree. He served two terms on the University of Oklahoma's Board of Visitors for the College of Architecture (regional and city planning, landscape architecture, construction management). His artwork is in the permanent collections of his alma maters, OSU and MIT. Rex was married to Margie Crowley Ball in 1960, with whom he shared many good times, many laughs, and four wonderful daughters. The couple began their married life in Oklahoma City where he began his career following in his father's footsteps at HTB, Inc. an international architecture-engineering-planning firm. They then moved to Tulsa where he founded the Tulsa branch in 1962. In 1976 Rex became a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, one of the youngest up to that time to have earned the Institute's highest honor. Marge and Rex's union ended in 1983, but they remained close friends until his death. Rex met Stephen Edwards in Oklahoma City in 1984. The same day they formed an inexplicable connection, a beautiful relationship that has endured for 26 years. Their connection was so complete that they finished each other's sentences and heard each other's thoughts. Through their bond, Rex gained a 5th wonderful daughter. Rex and Stephen have traveled the world sharing their love of architecture, interior design, and their zest for life. On the 24th day of October 2008 they were finally able to legally marry in Palm Springs. Mr. Ball has uniquely served as President of the local AIA Chapters in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as well as the State Council. He is a registered planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). He has served on the Board of Directors of both Tulsa and Oklahoma City Chambers of Commerce. Within the U.S. Mr. Ball has involved himself directly in a number of award-winning designs which utilized the public/private partnership concept: the National Press Building in Washington, D.C. with the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation, One Bell Central in Oklahoma City, the ingenious Mid-Continent Tower in Tulsa, and the Tulsa Community College conversion of the Sinclair Building and Central High School Shops. All of these illustratively incorporate the design values of accessibility and people-orientation that are Ball's trademarks. Mr. Ball's intense interest in our Nation's urban areas found expression through personal participation on committees in Tulsa and on similar committees within the National Trust for Historic Preservation/Preservation Oklahoma, the American Consulting Engineers council, the U.S. Jaycees, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) national component and local chapters, and the Society of American Military Engineers of which he was a sustaining member. In 1994, Ball was appointed by President Clinton to serve on the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. He had also chaired the White house Small Business Conference's https://ninde.com/tribute-ajax/print-obituary.html?id=1539 1/2 �1/31/25, 1:25 PM ninde.com/tribute-ajax/print-obituary.html?id=1539 Federal Procurement Task Force, in addition to being listed in Who's Who in America and Who's Who in the World. In 1994, after 37 years of professional practice, he became Chairman Emeritus of HTB, Inc. HTB has since been purchased by Dewberry Design, Inc. Right up to his death, Mr. Ball was in popular demand as a speaker, panelist, and author. Consistently honored by his peers during his 12-year tenure as CEO of HTB, the firm received over 50 awards nationally and locally. His honors include the Governor's Business in the Arts Award, the Curt Schwartz Business in the Arts Award, and the Gannet Foundation's Five Who Care Humanitarian Award for long-standing commitment to economic development, education, cultural enrichment as well as efforts to help the handicapped and the needy. In November 1995, OSU singled him out for its Distinguished Alumnus Award for significant service plus personal and professional achievements. In recent years, he has focused his attention on Tulsa's magnificent collection of Art Deco buildings by chairing the 6th World Congress on Art Deco; was chair of the International Coalition of Art Deco Societies; former president of the Tulsa Historic Preservation Commission; co-founder and president of the Tulsa Art Deco Society. In addition , Rex was a founding commissioner and chairman of the Metropolitan Tulsa Transit Authority and a member and former president of Downtown Tulsa Unlimited. Rex is remembered as a devoted friend, loving husband, father and grandfather, who will be dearly missed. Rex is survived by his husband, Stephen Edwards, his daughters, Julie Kay Willingham, Linda Carol Ball, Sharon Louise Corbin and her husband, Clarence, Renee Marie Boehnen and her husband, Craig (all of the Dallas area) and Tiffany Gail Bjorlie and her husband, Jeremy of Tulsa; his grandchildren, Michael Ball, Cheyenne Corbin, Elyse Glass, Serene Corbin, Derek Corbin, Matthew Willingham, Aleigha Boehnen and Josh Corbin; his children's mother, Marge Crowley Ball; his special friends, Dwight Kealieher, Mike Tedrick, Steve Aberson and Brent Ortolani. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Sarah Mae (Kellner) Ball and his brother, Leonard Frank Ball. Rex left his body peacefully, family by his side, with Stephen holding him and singing the show tunes that Rex famously adored. https://ninde.com/tribute-ajax/print-obituary.html?id=1539 2/2 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document <h1 class="print-name">Rex Ball</h1> Rex Martin Ball was born June 14th, 1934 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Ralph Martin and Sarah Mae (Kellner) Ball. Rex, an internationally known architect, urban designer, and champion of historic preservation efforts is also remembered as a beloved mentor and staunch human rights advocate, who was as intent on improving the lives around him as he was on improving society. A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Friday at the Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. A visitation is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ninde Brookside Funeral Home. Rex, graduated at the age of 16 valedictorian of his class at Kemper Military School. He then attended Oklahoma State University obtaining his Bachelor's Degree in architecture. His education continued at MIT where he obtained a Master of Architecture degree. He served two terms on the University of Oklahoma's Board of Visitors for the College of Architecture (regional and city planning, landscape architecture, construction management). His artwork is in the permanent collections of his alma maters, OSU and MIT. Rex was married to Margie Crowley Ball in 1960, with whom he shared many good times, many laughs, and four wonderful daughters. The couple began their married life in Oklahoma City where he began his career following in his father's footsteps at HTB, Inc. an international architecture-engineering-planning firm. They then moved to Tulsa where he founded the Tulsa branch in 1962. In 1976 Rex became a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, one of the youngest up to that time to have earned the Institute's highest honor. Marge and Rex's union ended in 1983, but they remained close friends until his death. Rex met Stephen Edwards in Oklahoma City in 1984. The same day they formed an inexplicable connection, a beautiful relationship that has endured for 26 years. Their connection was so complete that they finished each other's sentences and heard each other's thoughts. Through their bond, Rex gained a 5th wonderful daughter. Rex and Stephen have traveled the world sharing their love of architecture, interior design, and their zest for life. On the 24th day of October 2008 they were finally able to legally marry in Palm Springs. Mr. Ball has uniquely served as President of the local AIA Chapters in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as well as the State Council. He is a registered planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). He has served on the Board of Directors of both Tulsa and Oklahoma City Chambers of Commerce. Within the U.S. Mr. Ball has involved himself directly in a number of award-winning designs which utilized the public/private partnership concept: the National Press Building in Washington, D.C. with the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation, One Bell Central in Oklahoma City, the ingenious Mid-Continent Tower in Tulsa, and the Tulsa Community College conversion of the Sinclair Building and Central High School Shops. All of these illustratively incorporate the design values of accessibility and people-orientation that are Ball's trademarks. Mr. Ball's intense interest in our Nation's urban areas found expression through personal participation on committees in Tulsa and on similar committees within the National Trust for Historic Preservation/Preservation Oklahoma, the American Consulting Engineers council, the U.S. Jaycees, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) national component and local chapters, and the Society of American Military Engineers of which he was a sustaining member. In 1994, Ball was appointed by President Clinton to serve on the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. He had also chaired the White house Small Business Conference's Federal Procurement Task Force, in addition to being listed in Who's Who in America and Who's Who in the World. In 1994, after 37 years of professional practice, he became Chairman Emeritus of HTB, Inc. HTB has since been purchased by Dewberry Design, Inc. Right up to his death, Mr. Ball was in popular demand as a speaker, panelist, and author. Consistently honored by his peers during his 12-year tenure as CEO of HTB, the firm received over 50 awards nationally and locally. His honors include the Governor's Business in the Arts Award, the Curt Schwartz Business in the Arts Award, and the Gannet Foundation's Five Who Care Humanitarian Award for long-standing commitment to economic development, education, cultural enrichment as well as efforts to help the handicapped and the needy. In November 1995, OSU singled him out for its Distinguished Alumnus Award for significant service plus personal and professional achievements. In recent years, he has focused his attention on Tulsa's magnificent collection of Art Deco buildings by chairing the 6th World Congress on Art Deco; was chair of the International Coalition of Art Deco Societies; former president of the Tulsa Historic Preservation Commission; co-founder and president of the Tulsa Art Deco Society. In addition , Rex was a founding commissioner and chairman of the Metropolitan Tulsa Transit Authority and a member and former president of Downtown Tulsa Unlimited. Rex is remembered as a devoted friend, loving husband, father and grandfather, who will be dearly missed. Rex is survived by his husband, Stephen Edwards, his daughters, Julie Kay Willingham, Linda Carol Ball, Sharon Louise Corbin and her husband, Clarence, Renee Marie Boehnen and her husband, Craig (all of the Dallas area) and Tiffany Gail Bjorlie and her husband, Jeremy of Tulsa; his grandchildren, Michael Ball, Cheyenne Corbin, Elyse Glass, Serene Corbin, Derek Corbin, Matthew Willingham, Aleigha Boehnen and Josh Corbin; his children's mother, Marge Crowley Ball; his special friends, Dwight Kealieher, Mike Tedrick, Steve Aberson and Brent Ortolani. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Sarah Mae (Kellner) Ball and his brother, Leonard Frank Ball. Rex left his body peacefully, family by his side, with Stephen holding him and singing the show tunes that Rex famously adored. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2010] Rex Ball Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Rex Ball, June 14, 1934 - 2010 Description An account of the resource Two pages of an obituary for Rex Ball, born June 14, 1934, who passed away during 2010, uploaded by Ninde Funeral and Cremation. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ninde Funeral and Cremation Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://ninde.com/tribute/details/1539/Rex-Ball/obituary.html#content-start Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 2 -3 , 2010 2010 AIA AIA Tulsa American Institute of Architects American Institute of Architects (AIA) American Institute of Architects Tulsa architect art deco Boston Avenue United Methodist Church Brent Ortolani Chamber of Commerce Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce Tulsa Commission of Fine Arts Dwight Kealiher Gay marriage gay marriage in Oklahoma HTB HTB Inc HTB Inc. HTB Inc. Tulsa HTB Tulsa in memoriam Kemper Military School Margie Crowley Ball Massachusetts Institute of Technology Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) memoriam Mike Tedrick MIT Ninde Brookside Funeral Home Ninde Funeral & Cremation Ninde Funeral and Cremation Ninde Funeral Home Obituaries Obituary Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce Oklahoma State Council Oklahoma State University Oklahoma State University (OSU) OSU OU Rex Ball Stephen Edwards Steve Aberson TCC Tulsa Art Deco Tulsa Art Deco Society Tulsa Chamber of Commerce Tulsa Community College Tulsa Community College (TCC) Tulsa Historic Preservation Tulsa Historic Preservation Commission U.S. Commission of Fine Arts United Methodist Church United States Commission of Fine Arts University of Oklahoma University of Oklahoma (OU) US Commission of Fine Arts World Congress on Art Deco https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/8962e17a9843b20cc46b751f0c04cba6.pdf 11eedde5dcac0140952fec99d70b32c1 PDF Text Text 1/31/25, 12:46 PM Carrie Fleharty - Agnes Patricia Spurgin was born on January 6,... | Facebook Carrie Fleharty's Post Carrie Fleharty April 15, 2022 · Agnes Patricia Spurgin was born on January 6, 1941 at Morningside hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Paul Eugene Spurgin, Sr., and Madeline Kime Spurgin. Some people knew her as Pat Spurgin, her Remember Password family called her Tish, and some of her closest friends knew her as Trish. Next time you log in on this browser, just click your profile picture instead of typing a Trish passed away peacefully in the afternoon at her home. She was surrounded by her devoted password. partner, neighbors, John and Dusty, and her closest friend, Christiane on June 27, 2021. She had been diagnosed with a bacterial illness, Trish’s body was OKlung infection, and COPD. Weakened by a lengthy Not Now not able to overcome these two diseases. Trish graduated from Central High School in 1959. She briefly attended Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio which is now part of Miami University. She then took classes at the University of Tulsa What's onCollege your mind, Amanda? and Tulsa Community studying accounting and Human Resources. She was an all-around bookkeeper for various businesses in and around Tulsa. Her favorite place to work was for her stepfather at Logan Concessions. She loved the smell of fresh Live video Photo/video Feeling/activity roasted peanuts and fresh-popped popcorn. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and being outdoors. As a youngster, she spent many summers at the Spurgin ranch in Osage county. She would tell stories of helping the mother pigs with their babies. She helped with the cattle drives, and getting the cattle vaccinated. She spoke very fondly of her time on the Spurgin Ranch. She always wanted to be a rancher. She had a deep respect and love for Nature. Trish really loved her dogs and cats. They were her children. Trish was preceded in death by her parents Paul Eugene Spurgin Sr., Madeline Kime Spurgin Logan, and her brother Paul Eugene Spurgin Jr. She is survived by her beloved and cherished partner of 20 years, Carrie Fleharty. A memorial will be held on April 30, 2022, at 2 pm at Bluff Landing east of Broken Arrow at the shelter. YouCreate will need story to bring a chair. This was one of the spots that she went to visit often. In lieu of flowers, you may send a memorial to Tulsa Equality Center or the Tulsa Garden Center. 87 Facebook 37 comments 1h · Like If you could magically become fluent in a Most relevant 25K Jeannie Lenae Broughton-Munoz Like 2y Comment Send new language Share overnight, which would you pick? 18.6K comments 652 shares Send Share Like Anne Alwill-Hall Hugs https://www.facebook.com/carrie.fleharty/posts/pfbid02z6yKUpnaFg6khPatJLoBXPo2jXx1qtWfDuv1v6wzFYBBctvEPmWJRHNjPi2gDsv7l?rdid=GNjYc… 1/1 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oklahoma LGBT+ History > In Memoriam Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Digital Media: Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document <div class="xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs x126k92a"> <div> <div class="xu06os2 x1ok221b"> <div class="html-div xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd"></div> </div> <div class="xu06os2 x1ok221b"> <div class="html-div xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x1q0g3np">Carrie Fleharty April 15, 2022 Agnes Patricia Spurgin was born on January 6, 1941 at Morningside hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Paul Eugene Spurgin, Sr., and Madeline Kime Spurgin. Some people knew her as Pat Spurgin, her family called her Tish, and some of her closest friends knew her as Trish.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div>Trish passed away peacefully in the afternoon at her home. She was surrounded by her devoted partner, neighbors, John and Dusty, and her closest friend, Christiane on June 27, 2021. She had been diagnosed with a bacterial lung infection, and COPD. Weakened by a lengthy illness, Trish’s body was not able to overcome these two diseases.</div> </div> <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div>Trish graduated from Central High School in 1959. She briefly attended Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio which is now part of Miami University. She then took classes at the University of Tulsa and Tulsa Community College studying accounting and Human Resources. She was an all-around bookkeeper for various businesses in and around Tulsa.</div> </div> <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div>Her favorite place to work was for her stepfather at Logan Concessions. She loved the smell of fresh roasted peanuts and fresh-popped popcorn. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and being outdoors. As a youngster, she spent many summers at the Spurgin ranch in Osage county. She would tell stories of helping the mother pigs with their babies. She helped with the cattle drives, and getting the cattle vaccinated. She spoke very fondly of her time on the Spurgin Ranch. She always wanted to be a rancher. She had a deep respect and love for Nature. Trish really loved her dogs and cats. They were her children.</div> </div> <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div>Trish was preceded in death by her parents Paul Eugene Spurgin Sr., Madeline Kime Spurgin Logan, and her brother Paul Eugene Spurgin Jr. She is survived by her beloved and cherished partner of 20 years, Carrie Fleharty.</div> </div> <div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"> <div>A memorial will be held on April 30, 2022, at 2 pm at Bluff Landing east of Broken Arrow at the shelter. You will need to bring a chair. This was one of the spots that she went to visit often. In lieu of flowers, you may send a memorial to Tulsa Equality Center or the Tulsa Garden Center.</div> </div> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2022] Agnes Spurgin Obituary Subject The topic of the resource Agnes Patricia Spurgin Obituary Facebook Post Description An account of the resource One page of a Facebook post of an obituary for Agnes Patricia "Trish" Spurgin, by Carrie Fleharty, Trish's partner, on April 15, 2022. Trish lived from January 6, 1941, to June 27, 2021. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Carrie Fleharty Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19u8QukcYy/ Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 15, 2022 2021 2022 Agnes Patricia "Trish" Spurgin Agnes Patricia Spurgin Agnes Patricia Trish Spurgin Carrie Fleharty Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Equality Center Facebook in memoriam memoriam Obituaries Obituary OkEq OkEq Equality Center Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Patricia "Trish" Spurgin Patricia Spurgin Patricia Trish Spurgin Trish Spurgin Tulsa Garden Center https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/2ba0854d31555f052589ee6f8f30d589.pdf c075226804ee57c66ba45d915a484f5e PDF Text Text OKLAHOMANS FOR EQUALITY OkEq History Project – Oral History Series Interview of Bill Francisco conducted by Toby Jenkins on September 13, 2011 Bill Francisco – Born September 5th, 1933, Passed December 25, 2024 Jenkins I'm Toby Jenkins, Executive Director of Oklahomans for Equality, and here we are at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center on September 13, 2011, for our Vintage Series, where we capture the stories of those who lived our history and made history. They came out, and we don't want them to have to go back in and keep their stories silent. So today we've got Bill Francisco, who will be my guest of honor, and we're going to find out about what Tulsa was like in the period of life that he lived here, and he lived in some other places and witnessed some very significant events associated with our community and the struggle for equality. Welcome, Bill. Are you excited to be here? Francisco Oh, absolutely. I understand that you just celebrated a birthday. Yes, I did. Do you really want to know? Yes. I'm 80 years old, September the 5th. September the 5th. Well, happy birthday, Bill. We welcome you today, and you've lived now seven decades on planet Earth. That's right. Any regrets? A few, but we forgot about those. Oh, you forgot about those? 1 �Yes, absolutely. I want to start a little bit today and talk about your early childhood and a little bit about what Tulsa was like in those days, and then we'll move through to some of the most recent things in your life where you've been honored by your own community, and we'll talk. I want to know some dirt on some people, so I'll be asking you some of those questions, and then I want to hear some secrets that maybe nobody else, because inquiring minds, want to know . Uh-oh. I'm in trouble already, aren't I? You were born what year? 1931. 1931, so that would have been in the middle of the Depression. That's right. I was a Depression baby. And you were born in Oklahoma? I was born in Oklahoma on a dirt farm right outside of Catoosa. Okay, born at home? Born at home. All right. Tell us a little bit about your parents. My parents were Portuguese. Portuguese, so that's what Francisco is? Francisco is the last name in the Portuguese. Francisco is a first name in Italian, but in Portuguese, it is the last name. The last name. Yeah, right. And so they were farmers. They were dirt farmers. Dirt farmers. Yes. And now did they raise their produce, and then they bring it to town and sell it? Is that kind of what they did, like drug farmers? Kind of like that. Yes. Now, where did you go to school? 2 �I went to, I guess, five grade schools. Okay. Here in Tulsa. In Tulsa. Yeah, yeah. Eventually, they moved into Tulsa into an apartment. Okay. And we went from apartment to apartment all until I was the sixth grade. Sixth grade. So I've been to practically every elementary school in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Now, what elementary schools did you attend that the buildings would still be standing? Several of those have probably been. Yes. Lincoln School, which is now Lincoln Plaza on there on 15th. In Cherry Street area? 15th and Cherry Street. It's Jason's Deli. I danced in Jason's Deli. And it was an elementary school. And it was an elementary school. All right. My first one was at Roosevelt. No, not Roosevelt. Longfellow. Okay. Longfellow. So it's now demolished. And there's the Native American Health Clinic there in Sixth and Peoria. Sixth and Peoria . That's where Longfellow Junior High School was. All right. So you attended elementary there. Yeah. Did you have some interest? Did you play sports or were you interested in music or dance? I didn't know what I was interested in. But I did become interested in the theater In the theater. 3 �Yes. And what was your first exposure to that? My first exposure was I was elected to play the part of the little boy, the pioneer woman, the little boy from Ponca City, Oklahoma. They was having some statue things for a benefit for the school. Right. And I was about this tall. And they said, oh, you'd be great as the little boy and the pioneer woman. You know? So I was all done up like a little pioneer boy. But it was all statues. And I had to stand still for three minutes without moving. And how old were you? Seven years old. Seven years old. Okay. Can you imagine a seven-year-old kid standing still for that long? What I did was I wanted to do such a good job that I held my breath for three minutes. It's a wonder you didn't pass out. And I almost passed out. You're right. I almost passed out. But I did it. And they thought it was great. They thought it was great. But I got interested then in the theater. In the theater. Because I love applause. Well, I think we all do. You like being the center of attention. It wasn't that. It was just the appreciation of the people who acknowledged it. Hey, he's okay. Now, did you ever do any dancing in those days? Oh, no. No. No. I didn't start dancing until I was in high school. 4 �Okay. I was a musician before that. What instrument did you play? Well, it's a bastard instrument now, but it was the accordion. Okay. And I think we have a picture of you. You're awful dressed up here. Oh, yeah. Now, there you are playing the accordion. Wow. Very distinguished. Looked like you should have been on the Ed Sullivan show. Well, this was taken in Chicago. At Lawrence Welk. That's right. But they were better than I was. But this was a competition at the Palmer House in Chicago, I think it was. The Palmer Hotel, I guess it was. And we went up there, a group of accordionists or accordion players, or whatever they're calling them, and went up there and competed in the national accordion. Now, where did you go to high school? I went to high school at Will Rogers. Will Rogers High School. And I think I have a picture of you. Looks like you might have your letter sweater on. Oh, yeah. I don't even remember this picture. Okay. Somebody sent this to me, and I said, are you sure that's me? Yep, that's you. No, I was a cheerleader. You were a cheerleader for Will Rogers High School? I was a cheerleader for Will Rogers High School. In those days, Will Rogers High School, is it in the present building? Oh, absolutely. Now, that was probably in the days when it was a brand new building, and it was the top design. I was in the 10th graduating class. 10th graduating 5 �class. And they called it Will on the Hill, because it was way out in the country, on the hill out there. All right. They called it Will on the Hill. Now, did you have any part-time jobs while you were in school? Like maybe work for a newspaper or anything? Well, my parents did not appreciate me going into the theater. Okay. So I left home very early. Very early? Very early. Had to support yourself? Had to support myself from whatever. I delivered the Tulsa World in the mornings so that I could go to school, and I delivered the Tulsa World out in the White City District. Okay. About 11th and Yale area? From 3rd to 11th Street, east of Yale. Yeah, the White City neighborhood. White City neighborhood. Yeah, it's not called that anymore. It's called Brayton Park now. Oh, is it really? At those days, it was called White City. Well, it really didn't mean White City. Right. It didn't mean it was named after something else. Yes, it was not. But anyway. Now, did you walk and deliver the newspaper or ride a bicycle? I did a bicycle and I did horseback. All right. Yale Avenue was a two-lane highway back then, and they had drainage ditches on each side of the highway. 6 �You're shaking your head. Do you know that? No. And they had these little wooden bridges to go through to the side streets, you know? And it was way out in the country. So I could ride my horse out there, you know? But the people of White City, there was a brand new, elegant addition. And I would ride my horse through their lawns to put the paper on their porch for them, you know? And when it would rain, I'd go through their lawn and put the paper on their porch, and they complained because I was digging up their lawn. Your horse was digging up their yard. Absolutely. So didn't you get fired from the Tulsa World because of that? No, they told me to stop riding the horse. So you went to Will Rogers High School. Yes. And you got interested in the theater. I got really interested in the theater. And when did you become interested in dancing? Because I understand that you had some interest in that. Yes. Actually, I was a little older. I was probably about 18 or 19 when I started to dance. Okay. I have your graduation picture right here. Graduation picture from Will Rogers High School. That doesn't look like me. You were very handsome. Yeah. That's a good picture, though. So when you were 19, you got interested in? In dancing. 7 �In dancing. Now, I know you rode horses, but what exactly is this picture? It looks like a mule to me. It's a toro. A toro. Okay. So it's a bull. It's a bull. All right. And I'm the back end of the bull. All right. And this is a theater group? This is the Tulsa Opera. And you were in a Tulsa Opera production. I was in a Tulsa Opera. Tulsa Opera first started out with operettas. You know, they weren't big enough yet. And all their first productions were all operettas. Okay. That was from Rio Rita. Okay. This is from the Desert Song with the Tulsa Opera. Then later on, they became legitimate and started to do the real opera. Okay. If this is an opera, did you dance or did you sing? We danced. Oh, yes. We danced. Okay. And I notice you are bare-chested, so they like to show off your bare chest. Well, I don't know. And this would have been in what year? Oh, gosh. Sometime in the 40s or 50s? 8 �Oh, it's got to be in the 50s. 50s? Okay. Yeah. I graduated in 49. It's got to be in the 50s. So about how? You were about 20, 22? Yeah. I was about 20, 22. Okay. And so you were involved with the Tulsa Opera and the Tulsa Ballet. At first. At first. At the Tulsa Opera was first. Then I got a scholarship to go to Los Angeles. And I went to Los Angeles and studied with Ruth St. Dennis Studio, which was a – people don't know her now, but she was one of – I guess – I don't know. I guess she was very famous as a spiritual modern dancer. And I got a scholarship to go – she was 82 years old when I went out there. Wow. Okay. Now, she didn't teach me much movement in dance, but the philosophy behind this woman just changed my whole life. She was really a remarkable woman. So you were out in Los Angeles. I was out in Los Angeles. Near Hollywood. Near Hollywood. And I studied. And I took lessons from Eugene Loring at the Hollywood School of Ballet. And I auditioned for a movie. This is when the musicals were all fabulous musicals, you know. What was it? The 50s, 60s, 50s? And I auditioned for a musical with Gwynne Verdon and Danny Kaye. And it was on the Riviera. But there was 500 dancers auditioned. I got to the final audition, and then I got a notice from Uncle Sam, come back to Tulsa, I was drafted. That brings us to this. That brings us to this. So there you are. Yes, I am. 9 �What branch of the military were you in? I was in the artillery. Army? Army. The Army artillery. That's where I started. That's where they drafted me, you know. Now, boot camp, where was boot camp at? Camp Chaffee, Arkansas. Oh, that's hot down there, wasn't it? Yeah, it was hot. Yeah, it was really hot. Really hot. It was very hot. So you went to Fort Chaffee for? Went to Fort Chaffee for my boot camp. For my boot camp. And then where were your assignments? My assignment was in Germany. I was very fortunate. It was right after the Korean War. It was in the middle of it before Vietnam, in between. And so I didn't have to go to Vietnam or Korea. They sent me to Europe, and I worked with the special services over there in Europe. So I had a good job, you know. I really didn't mind that much. I never carried a gun in my life, but it was pretty nice. Now, I see here that this is a Tulsa World newspaper, and it says GI Dancer, formerly with the Tulsa Opera, wins coveted medal in German Festival. So there's a picture of you bare-chested. They seem to like to show off your chest in those days. And you're bare-chested, and you're in front of a bunch of children. Tell us exactly what you were doing there. And apparently the Tulsa World was pretty proud. Tulsa was apparently pretty proud that... This article was originally done by the German newspaper. And it was all in German. And I couldn't understand a word of it. So I sent it home to my mother and said, could you get this, what do you call it? Translated. Translated, yeah. Get it translated. So she took it to the Tulsa World, and they just said, wow, this is wonderful. And they translated it and put it in the paper. Oh, am I moving? See, I get all... 10 �So you were there in Germany working with these school children. Now, what were you doing exactly? I was teaching them a lot of American dance in Augsburg, Germany. Okay. I was also helping to rehabilitate children from World War II. Okay. So you were part of the restoration. Part of the restoration of World War II. And I was teaching the children, and they honored me with this great honor from the city of Augsburg. Now, here's a picture. I don't know if our cameras can catch that, but it looks like you're dancing with someone with a crown on her head. Yes. That's the Princess of Augsburg. Okay. That I was dancing. And you got an opportunity to dance. Was she a good dancer? No. No, okay. But you made her look good, didn't you? Oh, yes. We just really, really appreciate it. And here you are with some of your military buddies. Yes, this is all my military buddies. Now, that was all there in Germany, correct? Yes, that's all in Germany. All right, so you did that in the military. And when did you get out of the military? 54. 11 �54? Did you come back to Tulsa? Oh, yes. Now, had Tulsa changed much because of the war? I understand there was a lot of building and GI homes were being thrown up. The GI homes were being thrown up. Brookside really became very, very, very big after World War II. With brand new homes and grocery stores and things. Little wooden houses, you know, all along Brookside. What did they call them? The little Cape Cod houses? All was done in Brookside. Now, Tulsa had big movie theaters in those days. And I understand you used to work at some of the big movie palaces. Yes. I was an usher. Of course, I still had to work my way through. Through living, you know, I was an usher at the Orpheum Theater. One of the most ornate, burlesque houses in the Midwest. It was absolutely elegant. Of course, they tore it down and built up a glass building there instead of it. Where was the? About a third in Cheyenne area. Second or third? It was a little bit past that. But anyway, it was a beautiful ornate theater. It was absolutely gorgeous. And I'd like to know where the Oklahoma Historic Society was at that time. Or the Preservationists. Preservationists, allow them to tear that theater down. It was just gorgeous. Now, were you there at that movie theater working there when they had the world premiere of Tulsa? Yes, I was. Yes, I was. And so you met? Yes, I was. What was her name though? Rita Hayworth. 12 �Rita Hayworth, yes. I ushered her down into the theater. They had a big parade down Main Street for the opening of the movie Tulsa. Okay. Big, big deal. Big deal in Tulsa. Thousands of people down there. And they had the premiere in the Orpheum Theater. And I was privileged to usher her down to the front row. Was she beautiful and gracious? Yeah, well. No, not really. She was kind of snooty. She was famous at the time. When they get famous and do things like that, you know these movie stars. Now I see in this picture, was this on a beach here in Tulsa? No. No? That's on Jones Beach in New York. Does anybody know where Jones Beach is? So you ended up in New York. Now how did you end up in New York? Okay. Did dancing take you there? No, no. I joined American Airlines in 1955, I guess it was. And I also worked with the Tulsa Ballet. Tulsa Civic Ballet at that time with Marceline Larkin. And with the Tulsa Opera, who became a legitimate opera house. I did Faust and I did, what was the other one I did? Faust and another opera with them. And that's where I stopped singing. There was this diva from New York, you know, they used to hire all the people to come in to sing the top roles. Well, oh, Aida, it was Aida. Okay. It was painted all in gold and everything. And at that time, they allowed all of the chorus and the dancers, they all had ballet in the operas, a quart of ballet in the operas. Well, they always allowed them to come in and sing at the finale. So they'd have a big crowd there. Well, I came in and I was right behind this metropolitan opera star in the back, just singing like mad. I thought I was doing great. She turned around to me and said, mouth it, buddy. I thought, oh, my God. I was throwing her off key. I have never sung in notes since. All right. 13 �I do some lip syncing now, but I've never done it. All right. So how did you end up in New York? You worked for American Airlines? I worked for American Airlines. They moved the accounting office from 910 South Boston to New York City. When they bought their first computer, IBM would not install a computer except in New York City, because nobody knew how they wanted them, you know. So they moved the entire part of American Airlines up to New York City. That's how I got to New York City. All right. And what did you do in New York City besides work? I understand you studied a little bit. I studied music. Yes, yes. I studied dancing, really. I was at the International School of Dance at Carnegie Hall. I did that of an evening after work, you know. So I didn't have much time to play because I was studying all the time I was there. And that's where I fell in love with clogging. They had a semester there of American folk dancing with square dancing and clogging and all. And I took a semester of clogging up in New York and I said, this is fantastic. I love this. I don't want to do ballet anymore. I don't want to clog because there's so much fun. And, you know, kids from three years old up to 80 years old can clog, you know. It's just wonderful. So I did that. And when I came back to Tulsa, I thought, this is really strange. I grew up in Oklahoma where clogging was all over the world and I didn't even think about it. I had to go to New York City to find out, hey, I love to clog. And I had it all around me all the time I was there. Now you're rushing ahead because I want to ask about some secret things. You were in New York. Did you ever, I understand in those days, lots of Oklahomans fled Oklahoma and they moved to New York for the gay culture, for the gay life subculture that was there in New York. There were clubs and bars, entertainment venues. Did you ever go out and have a drink at some of the nightclubs? Oh, yes, I did. And you met, did you meet anybody special there? I met my one and only partner. I've never had one since. And I was, what, 20, 24, 25. You fell madly in love. 14 �And I fell madly in love. His name was Nick. That was there in New York. And it was in New York City. Now in June... We used to go out dancing on Sunday brunch. They had big dances, tea dances they called them at the time. Sunday brunches, we would go out to the club, to one of our favorite clubs there in New York. And we would dance Sundays from 11 o'clock until 6 at night. He was the disco. He couldn't dance anything else. But he was a great disco dancer. And I had a great time. I really did. Now, and you were there in New York when the Stonewall riots happened. Yes. You were just around the corner, understand? What were you doing that night? Nick and I had gone down to the village to a little restaurant. They had these restaurants which was underneath the brownstones, you know, where they went down underneath it. Below street level. Below street level. They had these little restaurants there. And we went to our favorite restaurant. And we heard all this commotion going on outside, you know. And everybody in the restaurant got up, went out on the street. And we was a block away. We was a block away from Stonewall. But we saw everything that was going on down there. And... It was very frightening. Yes. But that started the gay movement. Now, did you have any friends who were injured or knew any of the people that were arrested? No, I really didn't. I really didn't. I really didn't. After it was almost... We stood out there for, oh, I guess about an hour. And we didn't even know what it was all about at the time, you know. And we walked down to the subway after dinner. And we went home. And the next morning on the paper, the Village Voice, we saw what it was all about. I wasn't in it, but I really, I really saw it. And you said there was quite a pushback from New York over it. And then there was a march a few days later. Yeah. Where they told everybody to come out and march in the streets. Yes, yes. 15 �And did you march in the streets with them in that parade? We had to work. And people were afraid still, weren't they afraid of being out? They were afraid. You had to have somebody with you. Okay. But the police was very cautious at the time. And that was the very first Gay Pride March? The very first Gay Pride March is in Greenwich Village in New York. 1969. 1969 it was. Yeah, and that started the whole gay movement. Look where we've come from. So whenever you, probably when we come around Pride time and you think about our parades, lots of young people today don't even realize we're commemorating an act of war. When they were waging war on us in 1969. And it was the retaliation. We stood up for ourselves. And we're commemorating when we stood up and said you're not going to do this to us anymore. Yep, that's right. So whenever we have Pride parades, do you ever allow your mind to think about that, that maybe some of our young people don't understand what it's really about? Oh, all the time. All the time. The young people today have so much freedom. When I grew up, there was no freedom in the gay community. No, there wasn't even a community. But the kids today have so much freedom to do whatever they want to do, whatever they want to do. And I just keep thinking, God, if I'd have had that when I was young, they have bars they can go to now. There wasn't a gay bar in Tulsa when I grew up here. I wouldn't even think about it. Except the Bamboo Lounge was the first gay bar in Tulsa. So you came back to Tulsa in the early 1970s? Yes, yes. I came back in, I guess about 75, I guess it was. And you had discovered clogging. I had discovered clogging. 16 �And you came back. In fact, did you hunt down the gay community when you got back to Tulsa? Oh, yes. Oh, yes. I found freedom at last. You came back and told them about New York, right? Yes, yes. Now, what bars were there in that day in the 1970s? In Tulsa? Well, I can't remember all of them because I didn't go to all of them. My favorite was Tim's Playroom. Tim's Playroom. Oh, good. You could go in there and you could dance disco from nine o'clock at night until two o'clock in the morning without even stopping. And I used to go in there and just dance all night long, all night long. One of the greatest DJs that ever lived was in that bar. Now, you were talking about what young people have today. Yes. Whenever you think about the equality center and it being downtown, what do you think about that in Oklahomans for Equality? Oh, what you have done for equality is really great. I started out, well, coming from New York back down here and seeing all of the things going on, I helped start TOHR. Oklahomans for Human Rights is what it was called. Yes, Tulsa Oklahomans for Human Rights. That's what it was. There was about five or six very prominent people in Tulsa, and then there was me, the little guy that didn't have any money or anything. But I went in with them and I said, come on, let's do it. You knew Dennis Neill on that day? Oh, yes. Oh, yes, I knew Dennis Neill. I'll tell you something about Dennis Neill. He used to live right around the corner from me on 31st and Woodard Boulevard. This was a long time ago. And after work, he would jog, I guess it was called jogging then, he would jog after work down 31st Street down to River Park and back to home. I'd be out working in the yard. He'd always wave at me, you know, as he goes by. Hi, Bill. Hi, Dennis. And great guy. And I saw his first turnabout performance. Oh, he's done drag? I don't think any of us knew that. 17 �There was a big benefit out at this restaurant on 71st Street. It's no longer out there, no longer a restaurant. But they had a big turnabout benefit out there. And Dennis Neill was in drag. So you all formed this organization 31 years ago. Yeah. And so it's an entirely different world, isn't it, than it was 31 years ago? Oh, absolutely, absolutely, absolutely. Now, when did you start clogging with, put together your clogging group? My first clogging group was 1986. I formed it because of the Oklahoma OGRA, which is the Oklahoma Gay Rodeo Association. We didn't have one in Tulsa. So I formed a group called the Green Country Cloggers. The Green Country Cloggers. And it was a great group. It was a wonderful group. And we performed all over the Midwest. We went from all the gay rodeos, from Denver, Phoenix, California, Kansas, Oklahoma. They didn't have one in Arkansas at the time. But I mean, every one of them. Texas, Texas was the big one. The big gay rodeo in Texas. And we became pretty famous, didn't we? Yes. Now, that was 1986. That was 1986. That would have been right in the middle of the epidemic. So we were having people, AIDS was in full swing and people were dying. And there were probably people here in Tulsa who had been infected. They were. They were. What are your thoughts about how the community reacted to that? I don't think they reacted. I really don't. They should have had more, but there was not enough information to say, Oh, hey, we're not affected by this. And out of my 12 cloggers, I lost seven. Out of your original things. So then we disbanded and I couldn't handle it anymore. And later on, when Tulsa got its own rodeo, SSRA rodeo, I started the SSRA clogging team, Sooner State Cloggers. Now here's a picture of your cloggers dressed up as the village people. That was the original Green Country cloggers. 18 �All right. And here you are. Are you the muscle guy or the police officer? I'm Felipe, the Indian. So you were the Indian. Well, that's a great picture. I love that. This guy right here, he runs the Eagle in Dallas, Texas. He owns the Eagle in Dallas, Texas. This guy here was one of the original owners of the toolbox. And this guy right here, beautiful man. Well, they're all very handsome. All very handsome. Yeah. Good group. Now you did clogging and somewhere in there, somebody decided that you looked a little bit like Santa Claus. And you started doing... Yes. I was doing, I was teaching clogging out in Glenpool at the Glenpool Community Center, which Glenpool was nothing then, I don't think. But we did a couple of shows out at Black Gold Days. I guess it was. Every year they had the Black Gold Days out at Glenpool. And I was working with the kids out there. And one of the organizers said, Bill, would you play Santa Claus for us? And I said, well, sure. I never get a chance to entertain, you know. I'm such a ham anyway. But I said, sure, I will. So they gave me this old Santa Claus, a moth-eaten Santa Claus suit and a phony beard. And I went out there and I clogged for their Christmas show. Well, the kids just went crazy. They thought it was the funniest thing to see Santa Claus clogging. And I said, well, you know, I continue to do it from then on because I made the kids so happy with that. And that's how it all started. We're looking at a magazine article from 1998 in The Oklahoman. And it's a feature article on you, The Dancing Santa. And it tells about his opera days and what he did in the restoration of Europe and his work with German children. But it also talks about how he just lights up the day and makes these kids' parties so exciting with Santa who dances. Well, you've had quite a remarkable life. I'm looking right here. You've been given seven awards. This is a lifetime achievement award that you received last year. Clogger Bill, with huge thanks from the Tulsa gay community, 2009. You are our hero. That was in 2009. And you've continued to do a lot of benefit work for lots of different nonprofits. And lots of organizations that serve people living with HIV AIDS. 19 �Absolutely. The other night... I'm a server. You are. I try to do everything to serve. I don't want anything for myself. Well, almost. You won't turn it down, is what you're saying. That's where we go. You know, the other night... I'm very humble. I just don't want anything, except I do love applause. Well, I think we all like attention. The other night, the Tulsa Eagle threw a birthday party for you, celebrating your 80th birthday. Unbelievable. And the place was packed. And such good fun. I want you to know, I was looking forward to that and I was excited being able to attend. And then I want our audience to know that a few days before that, you called me and you said, Toby, I want to do something to remember the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people who died on 9-11. Nobody's ever thought about them. So you wanted to inflate helium balloons in pastel colors. We spent all afternoon blowing up the balloons. And you said, Toby, I want us to launch the balloons a little after seven. So that was what I was so touched by because I'd been watching on 9-11 Sunday. I'd been watching all the coverage of the dedication of the 9-11 memorial and how that affected Oklahomans. And then I attended the event at the BOK Center that OCCJ sponsored. And then to be able to go to your party where our community gathered and we wanted to make sure that our people had not been forgotten, been recognized. And we set those balloons off at 7-15. We read the names of all of the hundreds of gay people who died on 9-11. And we set those balloons off. And it was the strangest thing, there was a set of jets doing a maneuver up in the sky. And right when we set those balloons off, the balloons took off and those jets crossed right in the middle of the sky. And there was this huge cross in the sky as we set those balloons off. Now, Bill, I checked. To my knowledge, there was not another memorial tribute to the gay victims of 9-11 than the one in Tulsa, Oklahoma that Bill Francisco wanted to do. It was his day, but you still wanted to think of others. Now, because of that, that night they surprised you. And I think probably this sums up your life. It takes a moment to change history. It takes love to change lives. The Imperial Court of all Oklahoma hereby proclaims the Youth Scholarship to be forever named in the honor of Clogger Bill Francisco Youth Scholarship Fund, September 11, 2011. That night they surprised you by naming a youth scholarship in your honor. How do you feel about that? Oh, my God. First, I wish they wouldn't do it until after the show. Because I was so emotional, I couldn't hardly dance. It's a big honor 20 �. It's a very big honor. Now, what do you think when young people, young gay and lesbian people who are applying for scholarships to be able to go to college and further their education, when they hear about this scholarship opportunity and they read the story about who it's named after, what do you want to be able to tell them? I want them to follow their dreams. Go for it. Well, thank you very much. You've been with us today while we've interviewed here on Vintage, Bill Francisco, who I think followed his dreams and he did go for it. And our city is richer because of his contribution. Thank you so much for joining us today. Applause How was that? 21 � https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/cae0cab67dbba006859779f324fcbc61.mp4 e71dbd9d5040432cf3641c9dd2b8169e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oral Histories Project > Interviews Description An account of the resource Physical Media: Box 7, Folder 7 - Dr. Leisa Meyer Program Box 7, Folder 8 - Interviewees Materials, Original Series 2003-2007 Digital Media: Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2011] Bill Francisco Interview Description An account of the resource Video recording and transcription of Toby Jenkin’s September 13th, 2011 Vintage Series Interview. Bill was born on September 5th, 1931, on a dirt farm outside of Catoosa, Oklahoma. He passed on December 25, 2024, in Tulsa. He made his first stage appearance in a school play in Tuls at the age of 7. At that moment, he was attracted to the theatre and applause. From being a high school cheerleader to playing the accordion to forming Green Country Cloggers, Bill was a ham. He served in the Army, spent time in Los Angeles learning dance and ballet and lived and worked in New York City before returning to Tulsa. He witnessed the first Gay Pride Parade in New York City in 1969 following the Stonewall Riot. He was locally famous as the “Dancing Santa,” exciting children throughout the Tulsa area. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Bill Francisco, Toby Jenkins, Dennis Neill Subject The topic of the resource Bill Francisco Vintage Series Interview Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 13, 2011 Bill Francisco Green Country Clogger Green Country Cloggers interview OKEQ Oral History Project oral history Oral History Project Toby Jenkins video Vintage Vintage Series https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/e915ff569d0f81f04e06d10cabcafed6.pdf 405ea1456b6f8f2ff9f05cb6926582e1 PDF Text Text �� Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2015] OKEQ Audit from Briscoe, Burke, and Grigsby Subject The topic of the resource 2015 Oklahomans for Equality Independent Audit Statement from Briscoe, Burke, and Grigsby LLP Description An account of the resource 4 pages of audited financial statements from public accountants Briscoe, Burke, and Grigsby LLP, including an annual trial balance from a period ending on August 30, 2014. Independent audit sent September 1, 2015. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Briscoe, Burke, and Grigsby LLP Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 1, 2015 2015 annual balance audit Briscoe Burke & Grigsby Briscoe Burke & Grigsby LLP Briscoe Burke and Grigsby Briscoe Burke and Grigsby LLP OkEq OKEQ Board OKEQ Board of Directors OKEQ financials Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) Oklahomans for Equality Board