HOPE Community Services: A Lifeline for South OKC

For over four decades, HOPE Community Services has had a presence in South Oklahoma City, offering immediate, compassionate help for those in need. Whether someone is navigating a crisis or struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, or homelessness, HOPE’s doors are open to all, without judgment or barriers based on income. This isn’t just a nonprofit; it’s a true community lifeline that embodies the spirit of South OKC—neighbors caring for neighbors.

HOPE Community Services began as a small methadone clinic in 1980, but today, its reach and purpose have expanded tremendously. Now, they tackle a broad spectrum of challenges faced by our community, including mental health care, housing stability, crisis intervention, job assistance, and essential supplies for daily living. Heather Helberg, HOPE’s CEO, captures the heart of their mission: “We treat the whole person because that’s what it takes to make a real difference.”

We treat the whole person because that’s what it takes to make a real difference.
Heather helberg, Ceo

Resources for Anyone, Anytime

Imagine needing help with something as simple as shampoo or as critical as crisis counseling—HOPE has it covered. Their 24/7 Urgent Recovery Center provides immediate care to those in crisis, staffed by professionals who offer a compassionate ear and concrete help. “We’re here for everyone,” says Danielle Smith, HOPE’s Director of Strategic Partnerships. “If someone needs a safe space or just the basics to get through the day, we make it happen.”

From providing hygiene kits to connecting individuals with stable housing, HOPE’s approach ensures that basic needs are met. And their Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model extends this care to long-term support for mental health, addiction recovery, and ongoing medical care. Unlike many organizations, HOPE doesn’t offer fragmented services. Instead, they create a network of support, so people don’t have to go from place to place trying to piece together the help they need.

Meeting People Where They Are

What makes HOPE unique is its community-focused, non-judgmental approach. HOPE’s outreach teams take to the streets, meeting people in need where they’re at. They provide critical support, whether it’s a kit with essentials or a direct path to their Urgent Recovery Center. Stephanie Fitzgemeyer, a member of the Opioid Response Team, exemplifies this mission. As “Peer of the Year,” she connects with overdose survivors, showing them that recovery is not just possible—it’s within reach.

“Our work isn’t just about treatment; it’s about understanding and connecting with people,” says Danielle. “HOPE is more than a building; it’s a trusted part of this community, where people can find real support when they need it most.”

CEO Heather Helberg and Director of Strategic Partnerships Danielle Smith

A Network of Compassion

In recent years, HOPE has strengthened partnerships with local police, fire departments, and other key groups, creating a coordinated approach to community safety. This collaboration, built on mutual respect, has shifted the local response to crisis intervention, offering people a way out of difficult situations without resorting to punitive measures. Now, law enforcement officers trained in Crisis Intervention Teams work alongside HOPE to help individuals in crisis access appropriate resources instead of jail time.

“We’re building a safety net together,” explains Clinical Director Melanie Johnson. “Our approach is to prevent crises before they escalate, helping people find support without unnecessary punishment.”

HOPE’s Team of Helpers

HOPE’s 300-strong team is the backbone of its mission, working tirelessly to support South OKC. Heather shares that HOPE recently introduced a monthly “wellness day” for employees—a designated Friday off that doesn’t count against PTO. “We have to care for our team so they can care for others,” she explains. “If our staff isn’t well, they can’t serve the community effectively. The wellness day has been really successful and shows our commitment to each other.”

“And Yet We Rise” 2022 By: Ashley Showalter

How You Can Support HOPE Community Services

HOPE depends on community support to keep its resources available to everyone who needs them. From donating essential items like toiletries and feminine hygiene products to providing financial contributions, there are numerous ways to help. Each donation, no matter the size, helps provide stability and dignity to those who may feel at the edge of society’s safety net.

HOPE Community Services represents a promise to South OKC—a promise that no one will be turned away, that resources will be accessible, and that help will be offered with compassion. As our community continues to face challenges, from housing instability to addiction recovery, HOPE stands as a sunrise of support, ready to help everyone find their way forward.

To connect with Hope Community Services, check out their Featured Business Profile below! You can also find them on their social media at:

Amy Singleton is a contributing author and online editor for Whirlocal South OKC, Moore, and Norman. She’s the host of the Queen Lead Podcast, a motivational & marketing keynote speaker, and the CEO at HITE.