Cart 0
Cart 0
Making life better - one foster child at a time
 
 

Our Mission

Fostering Hope is a nonprofit organization founded by Oklahoma citizens with a desire to aid children when they are placed in foster care.

Fostering Hope is an Oklahoma nonprofit dedicated to meeting the immediate needs of children entering foster care by providing hope, dignity, and a reminder that they are seen, valued, and loved. Through our four core programs—Bag Full of Hope, Fostering Hope House, To-Go Birthday Parties, and the Teen Ambassador Board—we care for children, support foster families and child welfare professionals, and inspire the next generation to serve and advocate for Oklahoma's most vulnerable children.

 
 
 
 

About the Need

Fostering Hope exists to meet the needs of foster children in Oklahoma. When a child is removed from home and placed in foster care, financial aid is not received immediately, and wait time can be anywhere from 2 weeks or longer. Children typically bring little to nothing in their possessions. The possessions they bring are carried out of the home in a trash bag. Our state has taken to heart our goal of no more "trash bags" kids. With a backpack full of everything they need, foster children of all ages feel loved and nurtured.

We have expanded our services for children who have been removed with the Fostering Hope House. Instead of extended waiting at DHS offices, this facility offers a safe and friendly place for children to await placement. This special house offers bathing facilities, a kitchen, and respite space to make a traumatic time less frightening, and more comfortable for children.

Fostering Hope volunteers are there to meet children and offer support in a warm and welcoming environment.

 
 
Photo+Apr+15%2C+5+55+19+PM.jpg

"Every child deserves to have their needs met. We realized with the community and Oklahoma we could do just that."

 
 

The Team

Annie Czaruk

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Annie Czaruk serves as the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Fostering Hope of Muskogee. Nearly 7 years ago she and a friend learned of the staggering gaps in the state’s foster care system. Gaps like a 4-6 week (or longer) waiting time for a foster family to receive funding, ensuring that emergency needs were being missed repeatedly. Children were forced to fit whatever belongings they could into a trash bag. What started in March of 2016 as a single backpack full of necessities assembled in a single room, has since grown into a nonprofit serving thousands of children throughout Oklahoma.

Late nights and emergencies are a big part of Fostering Hope, and it was one of those late nights that Annie saw an additional way to help. It all took place because of a special baby. This child was removed from an unsafe home and needed a bath and to be fed before being placed in the state’s care. She learned that the only immediate option for this baby would be a bath in the public sink at the DHS Office and a wait time on a nap mat in a dark cubicle for up to 12 hours. Annie knew this vulnerable baby boy deserved much more. 8 months later the Fostering Hope House was established thanks to a local family who felt called to help their community. We call this one-of-a-kind house a “peaceful space for the in-between places.”

Since opening the Fostering Hope House doors in February of 2020, FH has become a model for new hope houses to be created by the state of Oklahoma. In addition to that, Oklahoma saw the need to separate children’s services from other programs DHS provides and create a gentler and more welcoming environment for their most vulnerable citizens. 

Annie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from the University of Oklahoma. She is married to Greg, and they have two children, Annebelle and Wagner. She is proud of the work they have accomplished together, and it is a privilege to be the bridge connecting caring and generous people to ensure every child receives essential resources, milestone celebrations, and healing experiences.

 
 

Michelle Carter

Director of Finance and Development

Michelle is a mom of two teenage kids, Abby and Luke, who, at times, can seem like a full-time job! She recently completed her twenty-third year of actively working as a pharmacist. Together she and her husband have spent the latter half operating and maintaining their local pharmacy, Gaddy’s Drug. Her time at Fostering Hope has been most often spent in budgeting and accounting. She routinely prepares finances, assists with budget planning, and regulates the cash flow accordingly. Additionally, she has developed a grant tracking system to help monitor the financial aspect of grants received by Fostering Hope.

 
2Z1A2270.jpg

Chrissie Wagner

Grants Manager and Event Volunteer

Chrissie serves as a grant writer and coordinates events like Goat Fest and other special projects to serve foster children. She is on the board of Directors of Muskogee Little Theatre, past board member of the Education Foundation of Muskogee, Muskogee Area Arts Council, Oklahoma Arts Institute, and Oklahoma Community Theatre Association. Chrissie is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and taught senior English at Muskogee High School for 10 years. Married to Warren Wagner for 46 years, Chrissie enjoys directing community theatre, travel, cooking, gardening; and especially, time spent with her friends and large and ever-growing family.

 

Catherine Schuepbach

Communications Consultant

For nearly two decades, Catherine has worked in marketing and public relations and has been with Fostering Hope since the beginning. She is a former Okie from Muskogee and now resides in Edmond, OK, with her family.
She is responsible for helping the team realize and execute their vision and mission by creating
materials, helping with communication and establishing the voice of Fostering Hope.

 

Chris DenHerder

Website coordinator and Social Media Director

A Michigan native with a heart tuned to the rhythm of storytelling, he has spent over 15 years immersed in the dynamic world of sales and marketing. Throughout his journey, Chris has always been captivated by the stories of individuals and organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on lives and communities. His professional path has been guided by a genuine passion for shining a light on those who bring positivity and change to the forefront. Believing in the transformative power of storytelling to inspire and connect people, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. His Oklahoma family members work for the Department of Human Services (DHS) and serve as foster parents, Chris has witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that accompany the journey of children in need. These experiences have fueled his commitment to amplify the voices of organizations like Fostering Hope of Muskogee, who tirelessly work to create a nurturing environment for these resilient young souls.

 

Nikki Foster

Fostering Hope Support Team

Nikki Foster, a lifelong resident of Muskogee, Oklahoma, brings a deep commitment and personal passion to her role at Fostering Hope. Married to Taylor Foster, Nikki is a dedicated mother to five children and adores spending time with her three grandchildren, cherishing every moment of joy and family life.

With a heart full of love for children and a fearless spirit to advocate for those in need, Nikki has been drawn naturally into a pivotal support role at Fostering Hope. Her personal experiences as a mother and grandmother fuel her dedication to ensuring that every child receives the love and care they deserve.

 

Courtney Ritter

Fostering Hope Support Team

For over a decade, Courtney expertly managed a marina, balancing her professional responsibilities with raising her boys. Her love for the outdoors and travel reflects her adventurous spirit and her appreciation for life's vast experiences. Currently, Courtney is a cherished member of the team at Hoos Pediatrics, where she has worked for nearly five years, embracing the daily dynamics of her work family.

Courtney’s journey with Fostering Hope began with a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of children during their most vulnerable moments. She is driven by a heartfelt mission to provide safe, loving temporary placements for children, offering a comforting ear and vital emotional support during confusing and challenging times. Courtney's compassionate approach and unwavering dedication make her a fundamental part of the Fostering Hope family.

 

Lyndi Coffman

Lyndi is a Muskogee native and a graduate of Oktaha High School. She earned her degree in Child Advocacy and is currently continuing her education at Northeastern State University.

With a heart for service, Lyndi joined the Fostering Hope team driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact in the lives of foster children. She is proud to be part of an organization that brings hope, care, and meaningful support to kids and families in our community.

Outside of her work, Lyndi enjoys spending time outdoors—gardening, kayaking, and making memories with her family.

 

Chelsea Freeman

Chelsea is a lifelong resident of Muskogee and a graduate of Muskogee High School.She has been married to her husband, Colby, for nearly 12 years, and together they have two daughters, Rowan (10) and Layne (7). For the past several years, Chelsea has been a stay-at-home mom. A lot of her time is spent chauffeuring her girls around to their extracurricular activities, and she says she wouldn't have it any other way. She also enjoys being involved in her kids’ school PTO. Chelsea was first introduced to Fostering Hope while volunteering during the busy Gingerbread Land season. Through that experience, she developed a strong passion for the organization’s mission and has since remained committed to serving children across Oklahoma.

 
Fostering Hope House - muskogee - serving foster children - nonprofit - tulsa oklahoma - fostering hope
 
FH-Website-BackgroundBlue.jpg

Fostering Hope Board Members

Executive Director/Co-Founder: annie Czaruk (middle)

President: Jim Wallingford, Business Owner (5th from left)

Vice-President: Josh Smith, Community Liaison Muskogee Police Department(1st on left)

Treasurer: Ron Davis, Community Liaison Armstrong Bank (6th from left)

Secretary: Jenny Morphis, Community Liaison Veterans Affairs Office (4th from left)

Board Member: Cristin Shelby, Community Liaison Business Owner (2nd from left)

 
 

What Foster Parents are Saying

 
“Fostering Hope stood in the gap for us and provided for our children. I believe this experience gave them a great feeling of control in a situation that was otherwise completely out of their control.”
— Foster Parent
“We loved the quilt/baby blanket. When suddenly getting a child you don’t have a chance to make/receive homemade gifts and we will treasure it forever. ”
— Foster Mom
“I received temporary custody of a 18 month old boy whose mother was in a homeless situation. We received long term placement. He had no warm clothes and most of his belongings smelled like feces and were dirty. I reached out to Fostering Hope and they provided little Noah with clothes, toys, blankets, toiletries, a diaper bag, shoes for his little feet (which were the first I had ever seen on him). This organization provided relief and we were able to focus more on loving this baby.”
— Foster Parent
“I can’t express how much I appreciate the help and kindness of this organization. With the uncertainty and sometimes chaos that comes with an unexpected placement, it’s so nice to have a bag of clothes the right size when there isn’t time to shop.”
— Foster Mom
“The little Valentines bag meant so much to our girl. She said she felt like it was her birthday. For someone who has lost everything familiar to her, it’s such a joy to her to get a color pad and crayons of her own. You truly are showing the love of Jesus to those who need it most. ”
— Foster Mom
“Fostering Hope fills a real need in our community that previously was a patchwork of efforts from local agencies, and churches. Never enough to even approach the need. And the need, unfortunately, is great and continues to grow.”
Eileen Van Kirk - Youth Volunteer Corps

”For many foster families, Fostering Hope can be the difference that allows a family to say yes.”
-Foster Family”
“A friend of mine encouraged me to reach out to Fostering Hope for help. They were so kind to me and immediately showed great love to this child they have never met. They made sure the child was given a weeks worth of nice clothing, school supplies, books, blankets, etc., they truly tried to personalize each item to things specific to that child. However, what stood out to both me and this child was not the just items she received but the fact that they wrapped up birthday presents with handmade cards and got a personalized birthday cake made.”
— Patrisha - Foster Mom

Mmm, so she is decked out from head (the bows) to toe (new boots), literally! Thank you so much to you and the organization that donated time, clothes, toys, and even a handmade pillow and blanket! She feels so loved.

DHS- Wagoner County

Nothing to change! FH is an amazing program and very supportive, accommodating, and awesome! Many kids don’t have anything so this is super helpful. DHS- Seminole County

 
2Z1A5135-S.jpg
 

With your help Fostering Hope has met the needs of Oklahoma’s most vulnerable-our foster children.

Donate to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Donate
 
Goat Fest Gift boxes are so much more than a gift. They are community support, love for foster children, and a promise to those in need. ❤️🧒🏾👶🏼👶🏾🧒🏼🧒🏻❤️It’s not too late to sponsor 🐐 Fest or purchase a curated gift box for you or your
Getting closer to our grand opening and it’s down to the fun part! 🎉❤️🎉❤️🎉🏡🌳❤️🎉❤️🎉Since reimagining Goat Fest 2020 FH,DHS, and local churches are taking goat fest to local foster children with handmade goody bags-too bad we can’t b
Fri-yay thanks go out to these fabulous friends of Fostering Hope. You can also help-Go to: www.fosteringhopemuskogee.org to become a sponsor and purchase 2020 Goat Fest Swag. #goatfest2020 #fosteringhope🌳❤️ #fosteringhopehouse🏠
These intake forms are for 32 children 🧒🏾🧑🏼‍🦱👩🏻👱🏻👶🏻👶🏼👧🏾👱🏽‍♂️🧑🏽👩🏻👦🏻🧒🏾👶🏼from September (8 of these kiddos had 🎂🎁BiRthDAys🎂 🎁 .) 32 have been removed from home and placed in a home where they can receive the suppor