Frequently Asked Questions

 Caring Collective provides a reliable place to live, coupled with counseling (through Gateway and other sources) and case management that connects youth to needed services such as employment and life-skills. Program participants move into a semi-furnished apartment—outfitted with furniture and bed. In order to help youth adjust to the financial responsibilities of independent living, youth will receive full assistance with rent and utility costs for the first 12 weeks of the program. The goal of Caring Collective is to assist young people who are homeless/at risk of becoming homeless and capable of independent living in creating and maintaining a healthy living style which ultimately prepares them for independent living.  Six months prior to program graduation, youth are required to create a plan with their Case Manager for completion of the program. This includes a housing plan, move-out preparations, and an exit interview. 

 The program provides: safe and stable housing; independent living skills training on topics such as financial literacy, household maintenance and health education; employment and educational support; social and emotional support through various counseling services, therapeutic recreation, and individualized case management; and information and referral to other agencies and community services. Caring Collective provides the resources to succeed in multiple traditional and non-traditional educational environments, from high school to post-secondary education. We believe education is critically important, so we work to ensure that our youth are fully equipped with the skillset to excel in post-secondary education at a career tech, community college, or four-year college/university.

Our mission is to provide transitional housing and support services, including education, counseling, and employment for youth 18-24 years old experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. We serve the Seminole and Pottawatomie counties.

Applicants must be age 18-24; currently homeless or at risk to homelessness; an Oklahoma resident; willing to make a change; and willing to complete program expectations.

 No. Youth must be in good health and be socially and functionally independent.

Board members are responsible for making decisions and setting strategic goals for Caring Collective. These decisions ensure that our organization’s charitable purpose is adhered to and that charitable assets are properly allocated.

Caring Collective depends on financial donations to fund our work, as well as grants. These funds help youth build a place they can call home. We also accept in kind items such as furniture, appliances, and other household items.

Contributions large and small make a difference! We believe there is something every individual can give, whether that be a financial contribution, in kind donation, or volunteering. Contributions allow us to help more youth and get us closer to our goal of ending homelessness in The following is an example of how you can sponsor a young adult in our program: 1 night = $18, 1 week = $125, 1 month = $500, 3 months = $1,500, and 6 months = $3,000.

 Yes, your donation is a charitable gift supporting our work and is tax deductible. Our tax identification number is 41-2471683

 The first step is to complete an application and meet with a staff member.

Please reach us at rtarpey@caringcollectiveok.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.