Spreading the Love

Although flowers and chocolates may be the hallmarks of Valentine’s Day, there’s no greater expression of love than an act of service. Donating your time can make a difference in the community – and motivate others to do the same.

If you’re looking for a place to start, organizations across the state are making Valentine’s Day special for the people they serve while raising awareness about their missions. Get inspired by their good deeds and learn how to get involved. 

On Feb. 8, the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO) will roll out the blue carpet for its annual Valentine’s Day Banquet. The event provides a welcoming and inclusive space for self-advocates and their peers to dress up, enjoy a catered meal and dance the night away.

“The event is created for our self-advocates to come and shine,” says Rachel Ribbe, fundraising and marketing manager at DSACO.  “It’s just for them… It can really boost their confidence and show them that they deserve to be celebrated.”

DSACO provides resources and support to people with Down Syndrome and their families. Before its founding, few resources existed for parents of children with Down Syndrome. This gap prompted a small group of parents to meet in the basement of INTEGRIS Hospital to support one another – eventually spurring the formation of the nonprofit. 

Since then, DSACO has created more than ten events and programs, including free tutoring services, parent-to-parent support meetings, scholarships and more. 

The Valentine’s Banquet is a favorite among self-advocates, attracting attendees from across the state. Many friendships and relationships take root at the event. 

“It’s a night of celebration, community and love,” says Ribbe.

Volunteers are needed to help with the set-up and liven the party. 

“You don’t really need experience with people with special needs to come to the event,” explains Ribbe. “You just need a heart to serve and a willingness to get out on the dance floor.”

Check out dsaco.org for information about the banquet and volunteer opportunities.

Celebrate the women in your life at Galentine’s Day, a fundraising event organized by YWCA Oklahoma City (YWCA OKC). The tradition, which is going on its seventh year, originates from the popular television sitcom Parks and Recreation. 

In the TV series, the main character Leslie Knope describes Galentine’s Day as: “Every February 13, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies.”

In the same spirit, Galentine’s Day at YWCA OKC is all about uplifting and socializing with other women. Attendees will enjoy brunch, cocktails, a photo booth, raffle prizes and more.  

“We sell out every year,” says Angela Beatty, vice president of programs and engagement at YWCA OKC. 

The event serves an important role in raising awareness about YWCA’s critical services. YWCA is one of the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organizations in the U.S., providing crisis response services and resources to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. 

During the event, guests can learn more about how to support the YWCA and its mission. 

“We’re really here to be a support for survivors,” explains Beatty. “We help clients navigate systems and create futures free from violence.” 

Volunteers are needed for the event. To sign up or purchase tickets, visit the organization’s website ywcaokc.org. 

What’s in a name? For regional chain Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores, it’s more than just branding. The company has been holding its Share the Love event for more than 10 years, encouraging its corporate employees to give back to their community.

“It’s part of our culture,” explains Courtney Franklin, manager of community relations at Love’s. “Our people love giving back to their community [and] supporting their neighbors and friends in a personal way.” 

In the past, Love’s employees have banded together to send Valentine’s cards to children treated at the Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center, paint houses for low-income seniors and spend time with the kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.

Over 20 nonprofit organizations, including the Neighborhood Services Organization and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, will benefit from the week-long event this year. Last year, 420 employees got involved, donating a total of 858 volunteer hours. 

“It’s our biggest volunteer opportunity,” says Franklin. 

In addition to promoting volunteerism, Love’s celebrates the holiday with its Random Acts of Kindness Week. Love’s employees pass out love notes and gift cards to people on campus. 

“People don’t expect it,” says Franklin. “We’re really looking forward to doing it this year.”

The kind gestures that occur the week of Valentine’s Day benefit both the recipient and the giver. 

“People really love the feeling of being able to do something that’s not for themselves,” reflects Franklin. “They’re selfless acts that I think everyone can get behind.”