Angela Hein
What makes Angela Wildly Capable?
She is one of the best leaders I have ever encountered, committed wholeheartedly to serving our community. Through the Community Resource Collaborative, she supports countless organizations and individuals, always acting as a natural connector who brings people together. Angela meets everyone with love, warmth, and genuine care. Her many talents are used boldly and selflessly, always in service of others. At her core, she is all about connection, community, and compassion.” – RYAN BLACKWELL
What does your typical day look like?
I’m always in advocate mode. During the day, I’m a Family Advocate at The CARE Center, supporting children and families in crisis. In the evenings, I run IMPACT405, a social-impact organization rooted in OKC working to remove persistent barriers to essential support, and build stronger, more connected communities. On days off, I’m usually working from my favorite coffee shop or spending time with my wife and four dogs.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
Donald Ray Bratcher, a true carnie and biker who was rough around the edges but unapologetically authentic. When I got sober, he’d been sober just a year and a half, but he became the first person to truly see me. He understood me before I understood myself and believed in who I could become. When my own father wasn’t safe and then went to prison, Donald Ray stepped in. This completely uncultured man taught me how to be responsible, productive, honest, kind, and loving through his own example of unconditional care. He showed me that love isn’t about having the right words or background, it’s about showing up for someone when they need you most.
What makes you feel proud?
I’m proud of breaking generational cycles. My youngest daughter, Christina, credits me for her compassion and drive to help others. Knowing the pain I experienced didn’t define my parenting or purpose fills me with pride. My work and my family’s transformation show that change is possible, both individually and across generations.
What keeps you up at night?
I lie awake thinking about those who called that day for help, strategizing how to reach more families, and noticing gaps in services and access. I can’t turn off the advocate in me because I know what it feels like to be alone in crisis, and I want to prevent that for others.
One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?
I hope to be a published author and to be developing curriculum for people who work with youth. I want to use my lived experience to create training that better equips others for supporting young people in crisis.
What advice do you wish you could give your younger self? How might it have changed your course?
Push back. When they say you should drop out of school and just get your GED, push back. When they say they can’t help you without an adult, push back. When they say your trauma makes you too difficult to help, push back. You are not too much, too broken, or too young to advocate for yourself.
