Christy Hilliard
What makes Christy Wildly Capable?
Christy is a fierce advocate for abused and neglected children in Oklahoma. Passionate and deeply caring, she tirelessly fights for the best interests of each child. Her dedication and heart bring hope in situations that often feel hopeless. She is truly one of a kind, and the world would be better with more Christys like her.” – LAYNIE GOTTSCH
What does your typical day look like?
A typical day for me starts waking up to my dogs beside the bed around 5 a.m. We spend time outside and then snuggle up in my oversized chair for their nap and my time to start planning my day. The morning starts moving around 7 a.m. when my last baby gets up to get ready for school. I take him to school and then start work. I spend the rest of the day staffing, talking, researching, and looking at data around youth, families, and community. Some days are spent traveling to visit programs and learn about the great things being done in our state.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
My sister Donna likes to share the story of how she prayed for me and was so happy when she got me, she vowed she was going to take care of me. Well here we are at 52 and 62 and she is the strongest, most loving cheerleader. She is a fierce protector and a selfless life guide, and I owe her more than I could ever repay! I also must mention my Granny Hilliard, Aunt Sherry, Uncle Danny, Barbara Gray, Tricia Howell, Amelia Frank, and my mentors Bill and Carol Heitland — each of these beautiful souls touched my life in a certain way at a certain time and influenced who I am today!
What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?
The last year has been the biggest obstacle in my life so far. The grief and loss of my oldest sister and mother crippled me at times, with no answers., but it also taught me grace, forgiveness, and faith in God’s plan.
One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?
I hope I am smarter and have taken the time to listen and learn, that I am continuing to grow in knowledge and understanding of communities in our state, and that my love, our kids, and our grandkids are still the center of my world.
What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?
I would love to inspire the people in my community to invest and take ownership of the fact that these are our children and families, and we should create a supportive community that reflects and empowers that!
What advice do you wish you could give your younger self? How might it have changed your course?
Listen to learn, not to respond or justify. This would have made the path to get where I am a lot less bumpy.
