Throughout the community, there are a number of people and organizations that work daily to help the citizens of Ponca City. Often, they go unthanked for the work they do. Because of their nonprofit status, they look to the community for the funding to keep up their meaningful work. During this holiday season, think of the organizations in the area that work tirelessly throughout the year.

There are many in and around Ponca City. A few of these include Hope Ranch, Survivor Resource Network, and Northern Oklahoma Humane Society.

Hope Ranch is a nonprofit organization that was started to help children with disabilities, both physically and mentally. They do this by teaching them all the aspects of riding horses. Riding has helped so many not only overcome mental roadblocks by giving the rider confidence, but also works to exercise muscles for those that have a physical disability. Now Hope Ranch has become a haven for not only those in need, but also those who simply wish to learn the ways of horsemanship. You can reach the Shelton’s at Hope Ranch at (580) 716-3250 for information on their classes or to donate.

Survivor Resource Network is a nonprofit that spends its days protecting victims and survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. They have a 24-hour secure shelter to offer a homelike environment in a confidential location to survivors who are seeking refuge. Survivor Resource Network not only offers a safe place, but also case management services, safety planning, court advocacy, counseling for parents and children, and so much more. If you are seeking refuge or looking to donate, you can call (580) 762-2873. Northern Oklahoma Humane Society works throughout the year to take in and care for the strays of Ponca City. They work to heal and find homes for the animals of the community that have been forgotten. NOKHS sees hundreds of animals throughout the year that are looking for loving families and a healing hand. To adopt your next family member, donate, or to volunteer, call Northern Oklahoma Humane Society at (580) 767-8877. More information about these organizations can be found on their Facebook pages. If you have any spare money or time, think of donating or volunteering with any of the nonprofits in the community. It is the season of giving and what better way to give back to the community than to give back to those who spend their entire year giving to those in need in the community.