An Oklahoma City non-profit agency will commemorate 100 years of service when it honors those that continue its legacy.
Sunbeam Family Services will recognize on Oct. 25 United Way of Central Oklahoma, Jerome and Doris Harris, Edith Kinney Gaylord, Evelyn McCoy and Bob Ross during the ‘Celebrate the Legacy 1907-2007 Centennial Celebration.’ The event will be at the Petroleum Club, 100 N Broadway.
“Since 1907, Sunbeam has played a role in shaping our state’s communities. We are able to continue helping Oklahomans through the generosity of the honorees. We’re not sure where Sunbeam would be without the help of these amazing people,” Sunbeam executive director Ray Bitsche said. “This year is an amazing milestone for Sunbeam, and we want to share it with everyone who has been involved over the past 100 years. We know the role we play in the community is vital and this is our small way to celebrate.”
Since 1924, the United Way of Central Oklahoma has given money to Sunbeam counseling, senior care, foster care and early childhood services.
Jerome and Doris Harris have been foster parents for 25 years.
“Jerome and Doris have changed the lives of 35 adolescents, seeing them grow into productive adults,” Bitsche said.
Gaylord is being honored posthumously. She began making significant contributions in 1983 that led to the creation of The Foundation for Sunbeam. The foundation annually contributes about $100,000 to Sunbeam. In 1991, a gift from Gaylord helped Sunbeam purchase a computer system, allowing the organization to adhere to high standards of fiscal and statistical accountability. This system paved the way for Sunbeam to operate at a higher level of efficiency and enabled it to grow to what it is today. Gaylord’s legacy of supporting Sunbeam continues through grants awarded by the Inasmuch Foundation.
McCoy’s role in starting the Friends of Sunbeam has garnered her recognition at the celebration. Bitsche said that without McCoy’s compassionate ambition and help, many Sunbeam services would not be available.
Ross was noted for his advocacy in raising community awareness about the importance of quality early childhood programs and services. Bitsche said Ross’ commitment to the community and making it better for all ages at all stages is an asset to Sunbeam.
Event tickets are available. Cost is $100 for individuals. Sponsorships begin at $500.
Sunbeam is a volunteer-led and supported, non-profit social service agency offering help for all ages through counseling, senior care, foster care and early childhood services.
For more information, call 528-7721 or go to www.sunbeamfamilyservices.org.
Brian Sargent
Staff Writer
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