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About Us

Help In Crisis is a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence and their children. Founded in 1980 by a group of passionate individuals, we've been working tirelessly to provide essential services and support to those in need.

Our mission is to create a safe and supportive environment for survivors, offering a range of services including crisis intervention, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and community education. We believe that everyone deserves to live free from violence, and we strive to break the cycle of abuse and promote healthy relationships.

Through our dedicated staff and volunteers, we work closely with local law enforcement, healthcare providers, and other community organizations to ensure comprehensive support for survivors. By raising awareness about domestic violence and advocating for systemic change, we aim to create a safer community for all.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone. Help In Crisis is here to provide support and resources.

Board of Directors

President

Angela Rhea

President

Angela has lived in Tahlequah since moving here to attend Northeastern State University in 2002.

Board of Directors

Brad Eubanks

Board of Directors

Brad Eubanks, member of Cornerstone Fellowship, employee of Cherokee Nation for around 15 years.

Board of Directors

Dexter Scott

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Jennifer Edwards

Board of Directors

Originally from California, Dr. Edwards earned a B.A. in sociology from California State University, Stanislaus and a Master of Science in criminology from California State University, Fresno.

Vice President

Ben Barnett

Vice President

Ben Barnett has lived in the community of Tahlequah for over 20 years; he has earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree of Science in Health from Northeastern State University

Board of Directors

Bobby McAlpine

Board of Directors

Bobby McAlpine is a Market President for Armstrong Bank and has been with the company for the past 13 years.

Board of Directors

Corbin Jarvis

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Dr. Carolyn Cox

Board of Directors

Dr. Carolyn Cox is a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Oklahoma and an accomplished academic, currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Social Work Department at Northeastern State University.

Board of Directors

Dawn Ballew

Board of Directors

Dawn Ballew graduated from Northeastern State University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Social Work and began her career with Bill Willis Mental Health that same year.

Board of Directors

Yolette Ross

Board of Directors

Yolette Ross retired from the State of New Jersey after dedicating 33 years of public service, working for the Democratic Caucus within the New Jersey State Legislature.

Leadership

Mrs. Laura Kuester M.S., LPC

Mrs. Laura Kuester M.S., LPC

Executive Director

Mrs. Kuester graduated from Northeastern State University with a bachelors’ degree and went on to Missouri State University to get her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology.

Mrs. Theresa Morris

Mrs. Theresa Morris

Director of Human Resources

Mrs. Morris graduated from Northeastern State University with a Bachelors’ Degree in Health and Physical Education.

Michelle Rye

Michelle Rye

Sexual Assault Services Coordinator


Michelle Rye has been with Help In Crisis since January 2021. Working in Stilwell, she has dedicated herself to aiding victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.

Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Burnett

Mrs. Cynthia “Cindy” Burnett

Director of Grant Administration

Mrs. Burnett graduated from Northeastern State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

Shawna Morris

Shawna Morris

Child Advocacy Center’s Director

I began my career with Help-In-Crisis on October 1, 2002 in Tahlequah as the Sexual Assault Services Coordinator.

Mrs. Krys Havenar

Mrs. Krys Havenar

Director of Client Services

Mrs. Havenar graduated from Hendrix college with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish.

Shronn Schuelke

Shronn Schuelke

Director of Shelter Operations

Shronn Schuelke is a Tahlequah resident where she lives with her spouse of 23 years, Carden Crow.

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