Board of Directors
Staff
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“I was invited to join the board by my good friend, Cammie Laster. Initially, I wasn’t sure what Hope House did and the outreach it had within the community. Having served on the Board for about three years now, I am amazed at all the programs and services West Texas Gifts of Hope provides for cancer patients and the amazing people it takes to run it. I’m honored to be voted as president elect in 2022, and to be involved with this organization and everything it stands for,” said Blake Little.
Blake is proud to have been part of Cancer Sucks Fest 2021 and is excited to continue to grow that fundraiser and bring in bigger headline acts in the upcoming years. He is passionate about serving others, improving the world around him, and lending a helping hand to those in need which is ultimately what God has called him to do.
He was born and raised right here in Odessa and graduated from Permian High School. As far as his professional career, Blake has more than 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and currently works for NOV as the Regional Sales Manager.
Blake has two amazing kids – Cooper, a 16-year old boy, and Hudsynn, and 9-year old little girl, they are his whole world and daily motivation. He enjoys spending his free time being involved with their various sporting activities and also serves on the board for Odessa Youth Baseball Association and as a team leader at Community Bible church.
Vickie Emfinger is an Odessa native who thrives on the hustle and bustle of the West Texas Oilfield. She is an Outside Sales Rep for Industrial Oils where she has many amazing customers that she now also calls her friends. Vickie has one son, Chance Baucum, who lives in Lubbock, TX and her brother, Mike Clements, living in Granbury, TX.
Vickie discovered WTGOH through an unfortunate life experience when her partner, Gary Inskeep, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Vickie recalls, “I remember sitting with him during his treatments and being offered something to eat and a blanket to keep warm while I waited. I still have the blanket!”
Vickie is no stranger the devastating effects of cancer. She lost her mother and grandmother to breast cancer, and then Gary passed in 2016. Two years ago, Vickie faced various health issues that nearly cost her life, but today she is stronger and works hard to be a blessing to anyone she has the privilege to meet. “WTGOH is an amazing organization. I am proud to be a part of something so near and dear to my heart and to be able to bless those in need.”
In her down time, Vickie loves to hang out with her family and friends. She also enjoys her shopping sprees and traveling. She has a bucket list full of fabulous destinations she looks forward to marking off in the years to come!
Shane was born and raised in the sweet land of Odessa, TX. Shane and wife of 26 years, Sarah have 2 astounding children. Son, Tristan (23) is a field tech in the natural gas industry and daughter, Mercades (21) is at Angelo State studying graphic design and marketing. Shane and his family are active members at First Baptist Church of Odessa. Shane is a Mortgage Loan Originator at Prime Lending. He takes pleasure in being able to assist families reach their milestone of purchasing a home. “I am inspired by helping others whether that is achieving their goals or accomplish something they did not believe could be done.”
Shane was introduced to WTGOH after purchasing a table for the 2021 Cancer Sucks Fest. After attending the concert and realizing WTGOH is a local organization that accommodates families and patience battling the everyday struggles of cancer, “I knew I needed to be a part of WTGOH” Losing both parent to cancer, his father on 2017 to pancreatic cancer and his Mother following in 2020 to lung cancer, Shane is fully aware of the support and compassion required to wake up and fight everyday living with cancer. “Seeing a group of people come together and create something for the greater cause of others is always awesome and inspiring” Shane says about WTGOH.
In his free time Shane is very active outdoors man. He frequents the lake, being out on the track drag racing, really anything that allows him to spend time with loved ones and be outside. FUN FACT about Shane: he loves to make salsa. So much that friends believe he should use his love for it and sell it. Let others experience it too!
Pat Wickson is a retired CPA and a partner in a small local public accounting firm. She has lived in Odessa for 45 years. "I was long time friends with the founder of Hope House, Charle Scott and her husband. Charle asked me to be on the board because of my accounting background." Pat likes to play golf and quilt in her spare time. She is inspired by the kindness of others. Fun fact about Pat: "I am a cat lady!"
Patricia has lived in Monahans, TX for 36 years. During her career, she dedicated 27 years to Ward County, serving as District Clerk for 20 years. Today, she is enjoying the life of retirement alongside her wonderful husband, Jorge Oyerbides, whom she has been married to for 36 years. Together they share a lovely family, daughters Rebekah and Sarah, stepson Isaac and her amazing grandchildren Syrenity, Kaiden and Ava. Having been raised by parents Jimmy and Mary Urias, who were pastors, Patricia has a strong foundation in Jesus Christ. “We are all born again Christians, living our lives with the knowledge of where our eternal home will be.”
Patricia’s mother was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2018 and again in 2020. Patricia remembers from those times, “My parents live in Fort Stockton, so they would pick me up in Monahans and drive to Odessa a couple times a week for treatment at Texas Oncology.” It was during those visits that Patricia learned about WTGOH from the staff at Texas Oncology. “We went to visit and tour the house and decided to stay the night. What a blessing it was to stay there! Mom was exhausted after chemo treatments, so being able to get her to a bed right away and get rest was wonderful.” During her stay at the Hope House, Patricia met Executive Director, Brenda Medlock, where she discussed the opportunity to join the board. Patricia is grateful for Hope House and the wonderful staff; she has enjoyed serving the Board and giving back to others on similar journeys.
In her free time, Patricia and her husband are avid motorcycle riders. From Las Vegas, North Dakota, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri to Oklahoma and back – they have taken many incredible rides together!
Kristi Flournoy serves as the Local Marketing Director and Event Coordinator for Domino’s Pizza across all 12 towns. With 13 years of residence in Midland, they’ve become an integral part of the community. Married to their wonderful husband Randy since 2012, they are proud parents to two kids: Rilea, a 9-year-old who excels in soccer, volleyball, and drawing, and Barrett, a 7-year-old aspiring to join law enforcement as a Texas Ranger. Their household also includes four dogs, including Gage, a 17-year-old junior at Midland High who loves football and working on cars.
Inspired by their children, pushes themselves to achieve more every day. They first connected with Brenda from West Texas Gifts of Hope (WTGH) at the Father’s Day Car Show at Crossroads. As part of their commitment to community involvement, they personally volunteered and also got Domino’s Pizza involved in supporting WTGH.
In their spare time, Kristi attends their children’s games and practices. They’re an outdoorsy family, enjoying camping, hiking, canoeing, and music festivals. Additionally, they find joy in reading and giving new life to furniture through repurposing and refurbishing. And don’t forget their love for dancing—whether its salsa, hip-hop, or ballroom, they’re always ready to hit the dance floor!"
I was born & raised in Odessa & it truly is home. Married to Matt Winkler and together we share 6 kids, Haylee, Chris, Samuel, Madison, Amaya & Tank. My family inspires me. Watching all of the challenges that the world throws at you each day and the way my parents, husband & kids overcome them just makes me want to do better & be better each day.
I got involved in with WTGOH about 5 years ago when they were working on their first Cancer Sucks Fest. Over the years I have gotten to work with them more and more & having family & friends impacted from cancer I wanted to do more. Seeing firsthand what this organization does and the way they change lives for the patients in the area is just awesome.
When we do have spare time we love to travel. Anywhere with water is my happy place. Something about the lake or ocean is just good for the soul.
Fun fact about me. I am an avid baseball fan. Go Rangers!!!!
Toni has lived in Odessa since she was just 2 years old. Odessa has been the only home she has ever known and a wonderful place to raise her family. Her son and his wife, Tommy and Stephanie Frady, her daughter and her husband, Amber and Marcus Maldonado, along with her four beautiful grandchildren, Melody, Hanna, Ki and Elena are all located in Odessa. She is fortunate to always have family close by. Toni has her Mother, brother and sister in law living in the same city they grew up in. Toni lost her husband in September 2022 to a brain aneurysm and claims, “Since then, I have been concentrating on living life to the fullest!”
Toni graduated from Lubbock Christian in 2011, with her Master’s degree in business management. She is currently the Office Business Manager at CBS 7 where the past 8 years she has enjoyed all the interesting individuals that she has met. She is fond of the connections that have grown throughout the years from various projects she has had the privilege to work on.
Toni has had the misfortune to be up close and personal with cancer. Toni has lost several uncles to different types of cancer, plus two aunts and her grandfather are survivors of breast cancer. Her mother is currently a fighting survivor, living in remission of Colon Cancer. Toni recently joined the WTGOH Board and is excited to learn more about the organization and have the opportunity to help patients who are facing the struggles of living with cancer.
Toni loves to spend her free time traveling an experiencing new and exciting things and adventures Some recent trips include several places in California as well as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Honduras with Alaska being her favorite! You can also catch Toni spending her Saturday mornings cheering on and teaching her grandbabies how to bowl.
Vicki has spent all of her life in The Permian Basin. She has always said that it is the people that make it “home” for her family, not the wind/sand/tumbleweeds that some complain about. Her career has included Home Hospice where she worked as a Social Worker/Bereavement Coordinator/Volunteer Coordinator for 8 years, then for ECISD as a counselor for 19 years. In addition, she taught part time at Odessa College/UTPB for 15 years. She loves creating things, which is an art she learned as a florist for 10 years. She often gives recognition to the wonderful woman who patiently taught her this art, Lynne Norwood. Lynne was a founding member of West Texas Gifts of Hope. She passed away from cancer and one of the rooms at Hope House is named after her. Vicki retired 7 years ago, but is having a blast still serving and loving on people in our community. She first became familiar with WTGOH when her mother was receiving Chemotherapy. “Most days I would drive from school to sit with my mom during my lunch. Those sweet smiles offered sandwiches, cookies and blankets to both of us. It often was the only lunch I would have that day.” Before her mom died, she told her, “Get involved in this organization when you retire, they are the extended hands of Jesus.” So she did just that and found that her mom was right. Vicki volunteered 7 years before taking her role to a different capacity last year. She has had the honor of being a part of Cancer Sucks Fest, Chairing Paint The Park, Chairing Night At Legends, serving on The Programs/Services Committee, and volunteering in various areas when needed. She has been an active member of Crossroads for 27 years. As her ministry there, she assists with educational classes for families on various topics, presents at Grief Workshops, and provides counseling to couples. She says, “I work hard…those around me would say I push fiercely to get things done. But I definitely play hard too.” She has two adult children and 7 grandchildren. Vicki and her husband, Dwayne, have been married 45 years. They love to travel, attend all kinds of music/concert events, and watch sports of all kinds/at all levels. “My family and friends are my heartbeat. I have such a passion for Hope House and I am beyond thrilled to be serving alongside this awesome Board…Let’s Go!”
Coming Soon
Liz Lawson is a dedicated community member and passionate advocate with deep roots in her hometown of Odessa, Texas. Married for 18 years to her husband, Chris Lawson, Liz cherishes her family life, which includes three grown sons and six beloved grandchildren. Family is at the heart of everything Liz does, and she delights in spending quality time with her loved ones, fostering bonds that span generations.
In her professional journey, Liz has made significant contributions to various initiatives, including her involvement with the West Texas Gifts of Hope, where she has been an active participant for nearly two years. This organization reflects her commitment to uplifting her community and providing support to those in need. Liz believes strongly in the power of service and strives to make a positive impact through her engagement with local charitable efforts.
In addition to her philanthropic endeavors, Liz enjoys a rich personal life filled with hobbies that she shares with her husband. Together, they embrace the outdoors through activities such as golfing and rock crawling, showcasing their adventurous spirits and love for exploration. Their shared interests not only strengthen their bond but also enrich their lives, allowing them to create lasting memories together.
Moreover, Liz's entrepreneurial spirit shone through during her seven years as the owner and operator of a roller derby team alongside her husband. This unique venture not only allowed her to cultivate leadership skills but also provided a platform for empowering athletes and bringing people together through sport. Liz's experience in managing a team speaks to her ability to foster teamwork and resilience, qualities she carries into all facets of her life. She is now a certified sound and reiki practitioner with the drive for holistic answers for the body and mind.
With a strong sense of family, community, and adventure, Liz Lawson continues to leave a meaningful mark on those around her. Her commitment to serving others, along with her passion for outdoor activities and sports, exemplifies the dynamic and impactful life she leads. As she looks to the future, Liz remains dedicated to both her personal and professional missions, inspiring those around her to embrace their own journeys of service, growth, and connection.
Kimberly Watkins is returning to the board after serving for 6 years. In her first round on the board, she served two terms as President. She is proud of the work the board does to support the organization and cancer patients in this region.
"We are truly a “working board” and have tackled so many events and fundraisers to be able to continue providing complimentary services to patients in need," said Kimberly.
"It’s been so touching to see the positive impact this organization has had on so many and to see how much we have grown in the last several years. We all have a cancer connection to someone whether that be ourselves, parents, family members, or friends, and serving on this board helps me feel like I can give back to people who have just received a life-changing diagnosis."
Kimberly originally joined the board after attending a couple of WTGOH gala fundraisers and visiting with her friend, Monica Tschauner, who was the WTGOH Executive Director at the time.
Kimberly said, "It has been such a blessing to serve with so many incredible past and present board members and to have the outstanding support of the Odessa/Midland community."
Kimberly has served on several boards in our community, but WTGOH holds a special place and one she is thrilled to return to.
Kimberly was born and raised in Odessa and returned home after graduating from Texas Tech University in 2001. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Jacob, for 23 years. Together they have 2 amazing sons, Garrett - 21, a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, and Jace - 16, a sophomore at the Stem Academy. She is grateful for her family who are always the first to jump in and volunteer to help at WTGOH events!
Julie was raised in Odessa and serves as the Sr. Clinical Department Administrator for Family Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where she has worked for 25 years. Outside of her professional life, Julie enjoys exploring new destinations and immersing herself in the beauty of the outdoors. Her greatest joy comes from spending quality time with her two sons and four adorable grandchildren, and cherishing every moment with her mother, her many brothers and sisters, and their families.
Julie is an active member of Community Bible church where she enjoys serving and helping to welcome new comers to her church community. She also serves as Board President for Odessa Day Nursery.
After the abrupt loss of her father to lung cancer in 2013, she was deeply grateful for the overwhelming support of friends and family during his hospital stay. This experience sparked her desire to care for others in the same compassionate manner she was cared for. Since joining the WTGOH board in January, Julie has been inspired by the unwavering passion and generosity of her fellow board members and the WTGOH staff. She feels privileged to be part of an organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Cancer hits very close to home for Laura, growing up she witnessed her mother battle uterine cancer. Laura also conquered her own battles with cancer, she is currently in maintenance stages of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma but express her gratitude and love for WTGOH “I have had the pleasure to experience the love and compassion of this organization. I was diagnosed with stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2014 and then again in 2022. I can say those have been one of the most difficult times of my life. Yet every day I was at the West Texas Cancer Center receiving my treatments, I would be greeted with a sweet smile and lunch. I was given hugs, blankets to keep warm during my chemo, was offered hats, wigs, hair bonnets and classes to cope with the loss of my hair.”
Laura is married to Jose Villa. She has two awesome children, Ahlyssa 20 year old daughter and her son Tristan 17 year old young man. She was born and raised in Odessa, Tx. She works at Southwest Bank as a Branch Manager of the Downtown location in Odessa, where she was mentored and introduced to WTGOH by her great friend Cammie Laster. Being surrounded by strong, loving focused individuals inspires me to be better, do more. Laura is excited to serve on a board that entails exactly that. She is proud to be a part of an organization that blesses all the families and patience battling cancer. In her free time she likes to travel, take hikes and loves to learn to cook new dishes with her husband. She also likes to help rescue as many alley cats as she can, she currently has 7 outdoor rescue cats and has found forever homes for many more. “I would save all the animals if I could”
Our Leaders.
At Hope House, our team is the heart and soul of everything we do. Each member brings a unique blend of compassion, expertise, and commitment to our mission. These amazing individuals work tirelessly to support our community and make a difference every day. We’re proud to introduce you to the gracious and passionate staff who help run Hope House with love and dedication.
Executive Director
Brenda Medlock
Brenda Medlock is a long-term resident of Odessa. She was born and raised in Odessa. She has been with West Texas Gifts of Hope for 6 years.
Assistant Director
Rita Lujan
Rita Lujan is the new Assistant Executive Director for West Texas Gifts of Hope, starting in May of 2024. Rita moved to our wonderful city in 2003 and graduated from UTPB. “It makes me feel good to make a difference, not only for the patient’s lives but also for the community around us,” Rita said.
Bookkeeper
Rheta Duncan
Rheta Duncan was raised in Odessa, TX and graduated from Odessa High School. She owned her own retail business for 16 years. After getting out of the retail business, she began working for non-profits. She has worked for: Permian Basin Regional Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Girl Scouts of the Permian Basin, United Way, & Pink the Basin. Rheta has been with West Texas Gifts of Hope for 3 years.
Become a Part of the WTGOH Team
Complete application form and email to odessa.hopehouse@gmail.com