Coalition to Vulnerable Oklahomans Dissolves

Vulnerable Oklahomans Dissolves

Introducing Long Story Short: A Critical Nonprofit Coalition to Vulnerable Oklahomans – now dissolved. The dissolution of this group had been looming for sometime, due to the complexity of operating a nonprofit organization in the State of Oklahoma [[1](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/how-dissolve-nonprofit-corporation-oklahoma.html)]. It’s essential to understand the regulations involved in order to start one [[3](https://www.harborcompliance.com/how-to-start-a-non-profit-organization-in-oklahoma)], and of course, to know how to close it down. Long Story Short had been providing an invaluable service to Oklahoma citizens, but unfortunately the funds to continue operations had dwindled and the coalition was disbanded in 2023. This article will explore the history of the coalition, their goals and successes, and the lasting effects of their dissolution.

Table of Contents

• 1. A Nonprofit that Cared for Oklahoma’s Most Vulnerable Comes to an End [[3](https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/state/2023/07/31/oklahoma-nonprofit-coalition-against-domestic-violence-dissolves-after-funding-frozen/70306120007/)]
• 2. A History of Service: The Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence [[3](https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/state/2023/07/31/oklahoma-nonprofit-coalition-against-domestic-violence-dissolves-after-funding-frozen/70306120007/)]
• 3. A Complex Dissolution Process for Nonstock Corporations in Oklahoma [[1](https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/2014/title-18/section-18-1097)]
• 4. Moving Forward: Continuing the Fight Against Domestic Violence in Oklahoma [[2](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/how-dissolve-nonprofit-corporation-oklahoma.html)]
• Q&A

 

1. A Nonprofit that Cared for Oklahoma’s Most Vulnerable Comes to an End [[3](https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/state/2023/07/31/oklahoma-nonprofit-coalition-against-domestic-violence-dissolves-after-funding-frozen/70306120007/)]

Impact of the Nonprofit’s Closure

The Oklahoma nonprofit Coalition Against Domestic Violence was a vital source of support for vulnerable members of the community, but on July 31, 2023 the organization unexpectedly broke apart after state funding was frozen. This sudden stop has had a huge effect on many at-risk individuals and their families in Oklahoma.

• The dissolution of the nonprofit leaves a considerable gap in the availability and accessibility of basic healthcare services.
• The vulnerable people now lack support for basic needs such as food, shelter, and temporary employment opportunities.
• They also lose access to information regarding health insurance, immunizations, or even referrals to specialists.

In addition, the closure of the organization has hindered Oklahoma’s efforts to combat major issues involving public health. By eliminating the assistance and timely care that these people were provided, the state will face prolonged problems such as the outbreak of chronic diseases and other health disturbances.

2. A History of Service: The Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence [[3](https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/state/2023/07/31/oklahoma-nonprofit-coalition-against-domestic-violence-dissolves-after-funding-frozen/70306120007/)]

Adoption of the Domestic Violence Outcome Measures Project

In response to the high rate of domestic violence in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence (OCADV) was founded in 2011 to support victims and survivors. The members of the organization have used extraordinary efforts to reduce the prevalence of domestic violence and provide resources for victims and victims’ families in the state.

OCADV adopted the Domestic Violence Outcome Measures Project in 2016 to systematically evaluate its services. This project aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the services provided to victims and survivors of domestic violence in Oklahoma and develop strategies and interventions that improve the safety of victims as well as their coping mechanisms and quality of life. Some of the strategies used include:

• Awareness campaigns to inform the public about the issue of domestic violence
• Educational materials for victims and those who may be affected by domestic violence
• Advocacy services and resources for survivors and victims of domestic violence
• Trainings for law enforcement officers and other professionals
• Safety planning for victims of domestic violence

Even though the OCADV dissolved in 2020 after the funding had been frozen, the efforts of its members had raised awareness of the issue of domestic violence in Oklahoma and made a positive impact in the lives of many victims and survivors.

3. A Complex Dissolution Process for Nonstock Corporations in Oklahoma [[1](https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/2014/title-18/section-18-1097)]

3.1 Notice to Officers and Members

In accordance to Section 18-1097 of the Oklahoma statutes, a dissolving nonstock corporation must send a notice to all shareholders, officers and directors about the dissolution process. The notice must clearly include:

• The date of the dissolution.
• The fact that the corporation is dissolving.
• The time frame in which shareholders are allowed to make claims against the corporation.

It is important to note that this notice should also detail the method/s, such as email or mail, by which claims should be made.

3.2 Payments to Debts, Creditors and Shareholders

All debts and expenses (including any unpaid corporate fees) must be paid or adequately provided for prior to or, at most, within a reasonable period after dissolution. Following this, any remaining assets must be distributed to the shareholders.

A nonstock corporation must also submit a certificate indicating that the necessary steps in the dissolution process have been followed and include a detailed list of creditors and the amount they are owed. This certificate must then be approved by the Corporation Commission. This certificate is necessary before any assets can be distributed to shareholders.

4. Moving Forward: Continuing the Fight Against Domestic Violence in Oklahoma [[2](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/how-dissolve-nonprofit-corporation-oklahoma.html)]

Reducing Domestic Violence in Oklahoma

• Continue to provide training and educational sessions on domestic violence and its effects. Offer more training sessions to new law enforcement officers, crisis
• center workers, rape crisis center employees, and social workers to increase their knowledge on how to effectively deal with domestic violence cases. Educate the public about the many preventative measures that could help reduce domestic violence in Oklahoma.

• Continue to develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure fair and equal treatment of victims and perpetrators of domestic violence in the criminal
• justice system. Determine ways to address the underlying issues of domestic violence cases, such as substance abuse and mental health, and create initiatives that focus on preventing recidivism.

• Create initiatives that help victims of domestic violence find the resources they need to rebuild their lives. Provide victims with access to legal aid, mental health services, and other supportive services. Increase awareness about domestic
• violence and its dangers, and educate likely victims on steps they can take for self-protection and the likely consequences of continuing to associate with potential abusers.

Q&A

Q: What is the nonprofit organization discussed in the article?

A: The nonprofit organization discussed in the article is [[1](https://oklahomawatch.org/2023/08/02/long-story-short-a-critical-nonprofit-coalition-to-vulnerable-oklahomans-dissolves/)], which was a coalition to support domestic and sexual violence activists and organizations for 40 years.

Q: What was the consequence of the nonprofit’s dissolution?

A: Following the nonprofit’s dissolution, surviving domestic and sexual violence organizations that previously received support are now without the Coalition’s network and resources. [[1](https://oklahomawatch.org/2023/08/02/long-story-short-a-critical-nonprofit-coalition-to-vulnerable-oklahomans-dissolves/)]

Q: What steps should I take to form a nonprofit organization in Texas?

A: To form a nonprofit organization in Texas, you will first need to file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. [[2](https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/c165.pdf)]. Additionally, you will also need to contact other government agencies for information on filing fees and other related matters.

Q: Is an unincorporated nonprofit association a tax-exempt entity?

A: No, unincorporated nonprofit associations are not tax-exempt entities. To become tax-exempt, a Texas nonprofit organization must incorporate as a nonprofit corporation and file IRS Form 1023. [[3](https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/nonprofitfaqs.shtml)].

For years, the Critical Nonprofit Coalition provided a necessary lifeline to vulnerable Oklahomans, serving as a beacon of hope amidst uncertain times.

Alas, the efforts of the Coalition to protect the lives of its communities have now come to an end. [[1](https://nonprofitmegaphone.com/ultimate-list-50-nonprofit-

marketing-ideas/)] Though the Coalition is no more, there is still a great need for community-oriented nonprofits to step up, and not only provide services but also work in coalitions with one another in order to further their mission. [[2]

(https://bolderadvocacy.org/resource/nonprofits-working-together/)] After all, it takes more than one person, or even one organization, to make a true difference. Think out of the box and come up with creative ideas to keep your team

motivated, inspired, and committed to making a real and lasting impact on their community. [[3](https://www.joangarry.com/creative-staff-retreats/)] Let us, in the spirit of the Critical Nonprofit Coalition, use our voices to create lasting change.