faith-based entities coming together to address economic and social gaps, like food security,” said Adams. “Those activities are happening every day, those stories just haven’t been elevated to the degree they deserve. There is a strong sense of community and camaraderie.” As northeast Oklahoma City continues to gain ground as a hub for families to live, work and play, Adams says it’s critical to preserve the culture and history of the community, particularly honoring the legacy of African American contributions. Simply flooding neighborhoods with investment can cause displacement of the very people who built the community, so initiatives supporting minority-owned businesses and preserving historic buildings will be key. Adams has a vision of desegregating poverty and providing diversity in housing and income, which research shows to be positive for current and future residents alike. “We need to do this in an equitable, thoughtful and intentional way,” said Adams. “We’re creating homeownership opportunities that are affordable for current and future residents. We’re working to bridge
career opportunities between northeast Oklahoma City and the Innovation District and downtown and exploring ways to support small businesses.” Community leaders were instrumental in discussions about MAPS 4, which will have a significant impact on northeast Oklahoma City. “Residents have a vision of what they would like their community to be,” said Adams, “and opportunities for them to be involved in the planning process are beneficial.” Adams now lives in Edmond and as she realizes the luxury of simple amenities like sidewalks where her son can ride his bike and courts to play basketball, she wants the same for her neighbors in northeast Oklahoma City. It’s not always easy to transfer from executive director to mom, or vice versa, but Adams strives to be 100 percent present while at work or at home. The Adams family reads together daily and weekly the trio does something new, cooking a new recipe, visiting a new restaurant or seeing a new movie. The family regularly attends cultural festivals throughout the metro, the Asian District or
south Oklahoma City some of their favorites, to understand how those neighborhoods have helped shape the city as a whole, a practice Adams encourages all families to consider. Just as family members did for her, Adams is instilling in her son the importance of public service, with Adryan regularly volunteering and attending community events with her. The 7-year-old has developed a passion for fighting homelessness. As Adams considers the blessings in her own life, she dreams of a city where no matter where someone lives, they have a fair opportunity, and she’s determined to do her part to bring that to fruition. “It’s not only your genetic code that determines your life expectancy, it’s your zip code,” said Adams. “What strides would we make lessening the 18-year life expectancy gap between particular urban and suburban zip codes in our metro area. Life and the quality of it, no matter where you live, are essential to making a healthier, happier city for all families.” Learn more about Progress OKC at progressokc.org.
02152020 Trinity School Ad For Private School Guide R4 FINAL.pdf 1 2/15/20 7:07 PM
Dyslexia • Dyscalculia • Dysgraphia • ASD • Sensory and Motor Processing
If your child struggles to read, write, or pay attention, it could be a learning difference.
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Now Enrolling
Trinity School educates students with learning differences, each according to their specific needs, in a supportive and encouraging environment.
New Location!
3200 N. Walker Ave / OKC (formerly the Edgemere Elementary School)
Open Enrollment begins Mid-March
(405) 525-5600 admissions@trinityschoolokc.org www.trinityschoolokc.org
Call to schedule a tour and learn about our Free Dyslexia Screenings!
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MARCH 2020 43
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