At Infant Crisis Services, we are privileged to have a family of volunteers and donors who tirelessly support our mission of providing food, formula, and diapers to infants and toddlers in Oklahoma. Among this incredible family, Karen Braver stands out as a beacon of hope, compassion, and commitment just as she has been for 15 years. Karen exemplifies the spirit of generosity, hard work, and unwavering commitment that drives our organization forward. Known for her quiet acts of kindness, Karen does what is right even when no one is watching, embodying the true essence of selflessness.
Karen has become an integral part of our organization, not only through her personal contributions but also by inspiring others to join our cause. Her efforts have brought nearly $250,000 to our mission, a testament to her incredible dedication and ability to bring supporters to our organization. When asked about Karen, Executive Director Miki Farris reflected:
“We often hear that people give of their time, or their talent or their treasure and Karen gives from all three buckets. Her passion is so contagious that her mom also became a regular volunteer, her children became involved in various ways and her husband, Rob, offered his support whenever needed. She is an integral part of our ICS family.”
Karen’s commitment to our mission is not just financial; she has also invested hundreds of hours in serving our neighbors and their babies. Our Client Services team even recalled how Karen put in time and effort to overcome language barriers with our Spanish-speaking clients. This selfless act allowed her to build stronger relationships with many of the families we serve, ensuring they feel understood and supported during their times of need. The ICS team also remembers a time where a staff member was out for an extended period due to illness, and Karen filled in the spot, completing essential tasks that kept the department functioning.
Karen’s humility is perhaps her most defining trait. Despite her significant contributions, she remains focused on the mission, never seeking recognition or accolades. Her friends and colleagues at Infant Crisis Services describe her as someone who treasures the intangible values that make life meaningful. Her focus on the priceless things in life—love, trust, and friendship—serves as a guiding light for everyone around her.
