Effie’s daughter was born with developmental disabilities, and in a time when supportive services were extremely limited, Effie saw how few opportunities existed for her to learn, work, and fully participate in the community. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, institutions across the country were being investigated for mistreatment and many were closing. While disability rights laws were beginning to emerge, real community-based programs were still scarce, especially in rural areas. Families like Effie’s were often left without guidance or hope for their loved ones’ futures.

 

Effie believed her daughter deserved more. She believed all individuals with developmental disabilities deserved to live with dignity, to work with purpose, and to be part of a community that valued their abilities. Determined to create that opportunity herself, Effie began with something simple. She organized a bake sale that raised $80, and with that humble beginning she started building what would one day become the Oklahoma Production Center.

 

With early support from Senator Herb Rozell, who helped her secure resources and navigate legislative obstacles, Effie began shaping her vision into reality. OPC started with one group home and a small sheltered workshop where clients assembled items for professional fisherman Jimmy Houston and for Baldor Electric. These early jobs created meaningful opportunities for people who had previously been considered unemployable. Effie proved that with encouragement and the right environment, every individual is capable of contributing and achieving success.

 

As families learned about the new opportunities available through OPC, the organization began to grow. Effie traveled to the Capitol, built relationships with legislators, advocated for disability services, and continued expanding OPC’s programs. Her leadership guided the organization from a modest beginning into a respected and trusted part of the community.