Who Am I?

I am someone who has experienced food insecurity, firsthand. I recall my first year in Tulsa; it was 1972. I stood in line at 601 North Main to receive a turkey for Thanksgiving from the Salvation Army. I have always been grateful for the assistance me and my family received and, thankful for the wonderful people that serviced us in our time of need.

On Christmas Day 2019, I retired from a 35-year career working in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry. I worked a 14 day on and 14 off schedule.  I was highly active throughout my career. I ran marathons, rode long distances bike rides, and competed in triathlons. With my career behind me, 2020 was going to be a big year for me. I had eight (8) events planned for the year! The main event planned for was the “Ironman Tulsa”, in May. 

As we all know, Covid-19 hit in February, 2020 and the world went into lockdown as the pandemic spread around the world. I watched in horror as race after race was CANCELLED. Like too many other athletes in training, I felt as if all my training for my planned events was for nothing and lost. While my frustrations grew, I realized how blessed I was while so many families had lost loved ones and their livelihoods and business owners were having to close their doors. I had to get over myself, so I started being more grateful for what I did have.

While living a life of gratitude, I chose to become a beacon of light…“The Light.” (Be a Light in this World.)

 At the beginning of 2020, I started working on the Black Wall Street (BWS) 100 Bike Ride. The focus of this event was to bring attention to the 100th Anniversary of Race Riot that killed hundreds of black residents of Tulsa and destroyed their property. While seeking sponsors for the bike ride, I met all the amazing shop and business owners on Greenwood and Archer Streets. I also met young people who had grand hopes for the future and a desire for building a better community. That interaction ignited a fire deep within my soul. From that day my battle cry became, Build Community.

When the light in my soul merged with the battle cry in my heart, “The Community Light Foundation” was formed.

In view of the current circumstances of the State of the World and looking even closer at home in my State of Oklahoma, I realized how much more the problem of hunger has grown. Reflecting back as to how my family and I were once served, this now is my attempt to provide a service to others in need. My goal is to give back and to help build a stronger and more vibrant community.

I do not claim to have all the answers, however, I can do what I can by using what I have to help as many people as possible.

When I shine my light by serving others, I unconsciously give others permission to do the same; as, I am liberated from my own fear my presence liberates others. What a great gift it is to plant a seed and help others on their journey.

Osborne