STEPBYSTEP

1st Step Newsletter   |   July 2025

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Executive Director’s Letter

Portrait of 1st Step Male Diversion Program Executive Director David Phillips

Summer is upon us, and we face another challenging year. We have begun our ninth year of operations. It doesn’t seem possible. 


As we step into July 2025, I am thrilled to share the latest updates and reflections in this edition of the 1st Step Newsletter. This platform remains a vital means for us to connect, celebrate, and share our collective progress.


Remarkable achievements and defining moments have marked our journey. We have solidified our relationship with the Cherokee Nation, completed remodeling the Robert Nigh house, collaborated with Oklahoma State University on the planting of the 1st Step Garden, working with the Juvenile Center to develop a new program for the juvenile courts, conducted training sessions for our staff, and expanded the number of people we serve. These accomplishments underscore the dedication, innovation, and collaboration that drive our mission forward. Each step we’ve taken is a testament to the power of unity and commitment.


Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome more Cherokee Participants, conduct regular training sessions with the staff, explore ways to reduce the termination rate in our program, and host regular podcast broadcasts on 1st Step and our Pathways To a Flourishing Life (PTFL). The road ahead is promising and brimming with opportunities to make a difference. I encourage each of you to engage with our vision, share your insights, and contribute to the vibrant community we’re building together.


In this newsletter, you’ll find a story about our new staff member, sponsored events, a list of articles written, a participant highlight, a garden update, a community and juvenile update, and a paper on Habilitation, Not Just Rehabilitation. I hope these stories inspire and motivate you as much as they have inspired and motivated me.


Thank you for your continual support and dedication. Together, we are shaping a future filled with possibility and progress. Let’s keep taking that first step, hand in hand, as we journey toward greater heights.
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David Phillips

Executive Director and Co-Founder of the 1st Step Male Diversion Program

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MENTAL HEALTH

June: Men's Mental Health Month

by Kelly McCoy

As a client of mine read the sign I created in my office, June is men's mental health month! His response was, “This is a lie. There is no such thing as a ‘men's mental health month.” I proceeded to ask him, “Why would there not be?” He responded, “Because nobody cares what men think.


We all either have brothers, sons, uncles, grandfathers, male cousins and or male mentors that we would like to think are feeling supported. When was the last time you checked in on them lately? It's nobody's fault that life happens, routines happen and life slips us by. How can we better support men and eliminate the cognitive distortion that most men share?


Whenever you see a male's mood shift even in the slightest, confront it with “Hey, I noticed you don't seem to be your normal self, is everything okay?” This provides a calm, supportive space and the opportunity to disclose his pain could make a world of difference. Offer a helping hand in what may seem stereotypical for the male to be solely responsible for. Exhibiting that there are no solidified gender roles, but that we are all equal and we all matter, promoting unison. Once that unison is established just maybe, we can bridge the gap males feel they are unseen or unheard.


When it comes to the young men at 1st Step Male Diversion Program, we are providing an opportunity for habilitation. This includes introducing the participants to what positive mental health and wellness look like. Identifying their own mental health struggles, cognitive distortions and or trauma is only the beginning for these young men to flourish psychologically in conjunction with the other areas of habilitation 1st Step Male Diversion Program has to offer. Providing a safe space to inform that it is okay for men to have feelings, to talk about their feelings, feel seen, feel heard, feel supported. Men need to know that it is okay for men to cry, feel hopeless, not have the answers, and reach out for support. Only then can true healing and reform begin to prosper and flourish.

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PARTICIPANT HIGHLIGHT

Austin

A man is holding a certificate in a living room.

From Commitment to Change: Austin’s Path to Success

Austin’s progress at 1st Step is a strong example of what dedication, focus, and personal growth can achieve in recovery. Throughout his time in the program, Austin has taken full advantage of educational and vocational opportunities to build a solid foundation for long-term success.


His completion of key courses—including Moral Reconation Therapy, Strong Dads, Parenting, Financial Literacy, Work Readiness, and Nutrition—reflects a deep commitment to developing the life skills needed for lasting change. These accomplishments not only demonstrate academic follow-through but also highlight Austin’s investment in becoming a responsible parent, partner, and contributing member of society.


Vocationally, Austin has shown remarkable drive. While maintaining full-time employment at L&M Furniture, he simultaneously pursued CDL B training on weekends, recently earning his CDL B license. His ability to balance work and training speaks to his strong time management, goal-setting, and career-oriented mindset.


Perhaps most notably, Austin has taken proactive steps toward independent living. He has outlined a clear savings plan and structured timeline and recently signed a one-year lease for a home with his girlfriend and children. This move represents not just financial readiness but also emotional and relational stability—an inspiring reflection of his growth.


In the Phase 3 community, Austin is recognized as a positive role model and steady leader. His consistent participation, reliable accountability, and supportive presence have made a lasting impact on peers and staff alike.


Austin demonstrates a positive developmental trajectory that suggests continued success, increased independence, and meaningful engagement with his family and community networks. 1st Step celebrates Austin's progress and maintains our unwavering commitment to supporting his continued growth and well-being.
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program SPOTLIGHT

1st Step’s "Seed to Feed" Therapeutic Garden Program

Program Overview

The 1st Step "Seed to Feed" garden represents a comprehensive horticultural therapy initiative designed to support the holistic development and mental health needs of our young men. This therapeutic agricultural program integrates evidence-based gardening interventions with traditional mental health treatment modalities to address anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health concerns.


Current Cultivation

Our therapeutic garden features a diverse array of nutritionally dense crops, carefully selected to maximize both therapeutic engagement and nutritional outcomes:


Leafy Greens & Brassicas

  • Head lettuce and butter crunch lettuce varieties
  • Red romaine and traditional romaine lettuce
  • Iceberg lettuce for varied textures and preferences
  • Nutrient-rich spinach, kale, and chard
  • Cauliflower and Brussels sprouts for extended growing seasons


Root Vegetables & Alliums

  • Onions for foundational cooking skills development
  • Potatoes for substantial nutritional content
  • Two distinct carrot varieties to encourage dietary diversity


Fruiting Vegetables

  • Tomato plants for seasonal harvesting experiences
  • Cucumbers for hydration and fresh consumption
  • Eggplants for cultural cooking exploration
  • Bell peppers for color variety and vitamin content


Therapeutic Benefits & Implementation

The "Seed to Feed" program is beginning to implement multiple evidence-based therapeutic modalities through horticultural engagement:


Mental Health Applications

  • Anxiety Reduction: Repetitive gardening tasks and connection with nature provide natural anxiety management through grounding techniques and mindful engagement
  • Depression Management: Seasonal planting cycles, visible growth progress, and harvest achievements offer concrete experiences of accomplishment and hope
  • Emotional Regulation: Physical activity combined with nurturing behaviors supports healthy emotional expression and self-regulation skills


Developing Therapeutic Interventions

Our clinical team is beginning to implement specialized gardening-based therapeutic protocols that integrate:

  • Mindfulness-based horticultural therapy sessions
  • Group processing opportunities around growth, patience, and nurturing
  • Individual reflection exercises connecting plant care to self-care practices
  • Nutritional education components linking garden-to-table experiences


Program Impact

The young men in our program actively participate in all phases of the agricultural cycle, from initial soil preparation through harvest and will begin meal preparation in the near future. This comprehensive engagement fosters responsibility, patience, and connection to natural processes while providing concrete skills in food production and nutritional awareness.



The "Seed to Feed" initiative represents 1st Step's commitment to innovative, holistic therapeutic approaches that address the diverse needs of our participants through meaningful, hands-on experiences that promote both psychological healing and practical life skills development.

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STAFF Highlight

Holly Hudelson

Executive Administrative Assistant

blonde woman in blue shirt smiling at camera

We’re excited to introduce Holly Hudelson as our new Executive Administrative Assistant! Holly brings with her a wealth of experience working with nonprofit organizations, where she has developed a reputation for her strong organizational skills, thoughtful communication, and unwavering commitment to justice and equity. Her deep passion for advocacy and human rights has been a driving force in her career, and we are thrilled to have her bring that same energy and purpose to our team.


In her role, Holly will play a vital part in supporting the daily operations that keep our mission moving forward. Her attention to detail, proactive mindset, and collaborative spirit are already making a positive impact. She truly lives by the mantra that everything is “figure-outable,” and brings a calm, solutions-oriented approach to every challenge she faces.


Outside the office, Holly enjoys a variety of creative hobbies, including crocheting and crafting. She also loves spending time with her two playful Boston Terriers, Luna and Remmy—named after beloved Harry Potter characters Luna Lovegood and Remus Lupin. Their names reflect Holly’s imaginative and whimsical side, which complements her grounded and thoughtful professional presence.


We are so grateful to have Holly as part of the team. Her unique blend of compassion, organization, and advocacy makes her an incredible asset, and we look forward to the great work we’ll accomplish together.


Welcome to the team, Holly! We’re lucky to have you. 
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Play Games, Give Back!

We’re teaming up with GroupRaise and Dave & Buster’s for a fun way to support our program! When you buy a $20 game card online, we’ll receive 50% back to help us reach our goal of raising $1,500 for onboarding supplies for new clients.


Campaign runs from June 27 – August 15, 2025 - BUT IT IS ONLY THOUGH THE LINK BELOW.


Grab your game cards, rally your friends, and help us make a difference while having a blast!

Get Your Power Cards!
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COMMUNITY EVENTS

1st Step at the Dream Center Easter Egg Hunt

Building Community Through Service

On April 12, 2025, several of our young men from the 1st Step Male Diversion Program proudly represented the program at the annual Dream Center Easter Egg Hunt. The event, which drew hundreds of families from across Tulsa, was a joyful day filled with laughter, community spirit, and plenty of candy.


Our participants played an important role by handing out candy, engaging with children and families, and assisting with the overall flow of the event. They showed up ready to serve with heart and humility, demonstrating leadership, service, and a strong, positive presence in the community.


For many of our young men, this was more than just a volunteer opportunity. It was a chance to give back, make meaningful connections, and experience the value of being part of something larger than themselves. Events like this allow our participants to practice responsibility, build confidence, and witness the direct impact of showing up with purpose.


We’re incredibly proud of how they represented 1st Step—with respect, kindness, and integrity.


We extend a heartfelt thank you to the Dream Center for hosting this uplifting event, and to all the community partners who made the day such a success. Your partnership helps create powerful moments of service and belonging that truly support the growth of our young men.


Moments like these remind us: transformation happens through connection, service, and showing up for others.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

1st Step Family Day at the Tulsa Drillers

Celebrating Connection

On May 4, 2025, 1st Step hosted a memorable Family Day at the Tulsa Drillers game—bringing together current participants, graduates, staff, and families for a special afternoon of baseball, bonding, and community. We had a big turnout, with the stands filled with smiles, hugs, and the kind of support that reminds us why we do this work.


This event wasn’t just about the game—it was about connection. Families came together to celebrate progress, share quality time, and continue building the trust and relationships that are essential for long-term success. It was especially meaningful to see program graduates return with their families, serving as living proof that healing and growth are possible.


For some, it was their first time attending a baseball game as a family, making the experience even more powerful. These moments of joy and togetherness help rebuild bonds and create lasting, positive memories that carry far beyond the stadium.


We extend a heartfelt thank you to the Tulsa Drillers for their generosity and hospitality. Your support gave our young men and their families a space to celebrate each other and continue their journeys with hope and encouragement.



At 1st Step, we believe transformation is fueled by love, support, and community—and this Family Day was a shining example of that in action.

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RESEARCH

Rebuilding What Was Never Taught: A New Look at Justice Reform


Too often, justice-involved young men are labeled as needing “rehabilitation.” But what if the issue isn’t restoring something lost—but building something never learned?


In our latest research paper, the 1st Step team explores why habilitation—the process of developing foundational life skills for the first time—is a more accurate and effective approach for many young men in diversion programs. Through a close look at the 1st Step Male Diversion Program model, the paper highlights how education, structure, therapy, and mentorship work together to fill lifelong gaps in emotional regulation, decision-making, and accountability.


The result? Stronger families, lower recidivism, and a real path forward.


If you’re passionate about justice that transforms rather than punishes, we invite you to read more and download the full paper.

Read the Paper
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You can help change a life. Join our mission and help these young men take the 1st Step to a better future.