Kirkpatrick Family Fund

08/13/2026

Reach Out and Read helps children build early literacy skills by making books and shared reading part of pediatric care. During well-child visits, healthcare providers give young children age-appropriate books and encourage families to read together at home, helping strengthen language development and caregiver-child connections.

By reaching families through routine healthcare visits, the program helps more Oklahoma children enter school ready to learn while supporting healthy development from an early age.

07/30/2026

Applications are now open for Kirkpatrick Family Fund grants. Eligible organizations may apply for:
• Small grants ($15,000 or less)
• Large grants (more than $15,000)
• General operating support
• Endowment support

The application deadline is September 1. To learn more about eligibility, schedule a meeting with our grants staff or begin your application, visit our website: https://bit.ly/4ndVICJ.

07/28/2026

According to a new report from the Arts Education Partnership, 76% of employer job postings request at least one durable skill, such as communication, collaboration and critical thinking. The report explores how arts education helps students develop these abilities through creative practice and real-world problem-solving.

Across Oklahoma, KFF grantees provide arts experiences that help young people build those same skills while building confidence and preparing for future opportunities. This report offers new research and policy context for why that work matters.

Aligning arts education with durable skills education is an authentic solution to meet the everchanging needs of the future of work—a necessary, urgent and actionable priority. School, community, postsecondary and industry leaders can work collaboratively to build a coherent set of strategies cent...

07/24/2026

For more than 30 years, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families has helped children, adults and families in Central Oklahoma navigate grief.

"When grief support is available close to home, it removes barriers that can keep families from getting help," says CEO Trisha Koelsch. "By offering free grief support in schools, community locations and at our center, we can reach children and families where they already are."

One story has stayed with Koelsch: A six-year-old girl who had lost her father attended Calm Waters grief support groups at her school and the organization's Oklahoma City office. There, she found a safe place to share her feelings and connect with other children experiencing loss. Later, Koelsch recalled, "she told her mom she wanted to help other little girls who had lost their dads. She saved $23 of her own money and donated it to Calm Waters, becoming the youngest donor in our history."

The Kirkpatrick Family Fund supports Calm Waters and its work to expand access to compassionate grief support throughout our community.

07/23/2026

The Green Box Arts Festival recently wrapped up in Historic Green Mountain Falls, bringing together residents and visitors for two weeks of art, music, performances and community events.

This year's festival opened with a Fourth of July celebration commemorating America's 250th anniversary, featuring a hometown parade.

Green Mountain Falls held a special place in the hearts of John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick, who spent many summers there. Today, the Kirkpatrick Family Fund is proud to support Green Box Arts and its mission to make arts and culture accessible.

07/22/2026

Congratulations to Kirkpatrick Family Fund Director Elizabeth Eickman on being named the 2026 recipient of the Stanley Draper Award from Downtown OKC Partnership!

Named for legendary city builder Stanley Draper, the award honors an outstanding nonprofit leader, volunteer or public servant whose work has made an enduring impact on Oklahoma City.

Liz's decades of leadership have helped shape Oklahoma City's arts and cultural landscape. We look forward to celebrating her at the Dean A. McGee Awards ceremony in August!

07/15/2026

Now on view at Oklahoma Contemporary, Frequency and Perspective showcases the work of Oklahoma artist Chad Mount.

Drawing inspiration from patterns found in nature, the immersive installation combines projection mapping, laser light, sound and generative visuals to create an ever-changing environment that invites visitors to explore light, geometry and perception in new ways. The exhibition will remain on view through November 2.

07/14/2026

This year, the Crooked Oak Public Schools band added two new trophies to the school's collection, reflecting the dedication of its students and directors, and the continued growth of the program!

The Kirkpatrick Family Fund is proud to support Crooked Oak's band program, helping expand opportunities for students to develop as musicians, performers and leaders. Congratulations on an incredible achievement. We're excited to see what's next.

07/10/2026

Congratulations to Kirkpatrick Family Fund President Christian Keesee on being named one of OKC FRIDAY's Most Powerful Oklahomans!

With his leadership, the Kirkpatrick Family Fund supports organizations and initiatives that help Oklahoma communities thrive through the arts, education, community enhancement and more.

We're proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and grateful for his continued commitment to serving our community.

06/26/2026

Finding affirming support shouldn't be complicated.

honestly's Resource Guide helps Oklahoma youth and families connect with community organizations, mental health resources, advocacy groups and healthcare services. The guide includes resources for people of all backgrounds, with information that can be especially valuable for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, caregivers and allies.

Explore local and national organizations and support services at honestlyokc.org.