Success Stories

Through our focus on Healthy Citizens, United Way is proud to support Central Oklahoma Turning Point, a grassroots effort to inspire personal health changes.  In 2007, Turning Point received a $70,000 grant for faith-based groups to create health and wellness programs.  21 organizations were chosen to participate in communities from El Reno to Shawnee and Norman to Guthrie.

Each location’s program was unique.  Southern Nazerene University (SNU) chose to offer programs using resources they have on campus.  Their pool was the perfect spot for water aerobics for students and families from the nearby Bethany Elementary and Middle Schools.

61-year-old Beverly’s daughters knew their mom would love water aerobics. They encouraged her to try it despite her concerns about her bad knees.  Beverly noticed a difference the morning following her first class. She got out of bed and could walk normally, rather than taking baby steps due to her knee pain.

“It is wonderful to meet new people and to have such kind instructors who are concerned and want to make sure that everyone is getting the most out of the class,” Beverly shares with a smile.

Because the grant provided the ability to buy equipment and supplies, many of the programs have continued either with volunteers or as part of the organization’s budget. Beverly and hundreds like her can continue to enjoy these health and wellness programs as they strive to become healthy citizens.