Charis Center’s 10th Comedy & Coffee Fundraiser Draws Record Crowd and Secures Major Matching Grant

The Charis Center’s 10th Annual Comedy and Coffee fundraiser packed the house last Thursday night, bringing in more than 430 guests for an evening dedicated to community support and life-affirming care. The event welcomed back comedian Mike Williams, who performed at the center’s very first Comedy and Coffee fundraiser a decade ago.

Executive Director Kimberla Treat said the turnout broke previous attendance records and reflected the community’s commitment to standing together and valuing life. She emphasized that the Charis Center’s mission is rooted in bringing the hope of Christ to families “one mother, one father, one family at a time.”

The night opened with a prayer led by Pastor Josh King, followed by piano music from Pastor Randy Southerland. Guests enjoyed a photo booth, coffee by Seven Weeks Coffee, and cakes provided by Special Days Cake Boutique, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

During the event, Stephanie Rosekelly shared a client story that highlighted the center’s impact on local families. She also honored Executive Director Treat for her ongoing service and leadership at the Charis Center, recognizing her role in guiding the organization’s compassionate mission.

One of the biggest moments of the night came when Treat announced a $78,750 matching grant from the Butterfield Foundation, dedicated to the Charis Center’s upcoming project known as Grace Place. The foundation, known for its support of Oklahoma faith-based initiatives, outlines its grant focus on its website at the Butterfield Foundation.

Treat explained that Grace Place will serve as a future home offering temporary housing and life-skills support for new mothers, helping them navigate early parenthood with stability and confidence. She shared her confidence that the community met the matching goal and expressed excitement about opening Grace Place in the coming year.

Treat also extended her gratitude to Special Days Cake Boutique for supplying the event’s cakes and thanked all sponsors who helped make the evening possible. She noted that the generous partnerships and support from the community enable the center to continue offering its resources at no cost.

The Charis Center’s name comes from the Greek word “charis,” meaning grace and kindness, which reflects its approach to helping anyone who walks through its doors. Treat said many women arrive feeling overwhelmed and unsure, but through pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, education, and ongoing support, the staff meets them with compassion and practical help.

As a nonprofit, the Charis Center relies on fundraisers like Comedy and Coffee to maintain services and invest in new equipment or facility improvements. The center provides pregnancy confirmation, options consulting, ultrasounds, prenatal and pregnancy classes, and baby supplies — all completely free of charge to women and families in Stephens County.

For those who wish to support the center’s mission, donations can be made through the official website at the Charis Center Donation Page or by mailing checks to P.O. Box 2163, Duncan, Oklahoma 73534. Appointments can be made by calling the 24-hour hotline at 580-786-6000.

The Charis Center is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 1700 W. Jones Ave, Duncan, Oklahoma.