Our Team

Board Members

Kelli Ude, Esq., Executive Director
Leroy Young, Board Member
Glenn Brooks, Board Member
Isis Palomino, Board Member
Rob Elliot, Board Treasurer
Norman Markland, Board Member
Maragaret Clark, Board President

Team Members

Kelli Ude – Executive Director

I am an Oklahoma Native and graduate of the University of Oklahoma Law School. My faith and servitude are first and foremost in my life, followed by my nieces and nephews, my work family, and football (Boomer Sooner!). I am thankful this opportunity found me because I would have never been able to imagine it, let alone pursue it. I am privileged to serve each day in a place with purpose at its core and in each effort. My journey to CCH was crafted through serving the community, following my principles, and following where the needs are. Through this journey, I was able to learn of the distressing challenges ill and injured individuals face with uncertainty in where they are going to sleep, what they will eat, and how they will get their basic needs met, including meeting their healthcare needs. Inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan, I am honored to lead the first resource of this kind, providing a place of recuperation for the unsheltered, in the state of Oklahoma.

Ruben Perez – Site Manager
 
I grew up primarily in East Texas and have been living in Oklahoma with my family since 2016. I’m a proud father of three incredible children, and I truly cherish the time we spend together, creating memories and guiding them toward independence. I focus on instilling core family values such as compassion, dependability, love, integrity, and faith, while supporting them through their transition into young adulthood.
 
After graduating high school, I earned an Associate’s Degree in Computer and Electronic Engineering in 2006, then began my career in the Oil & Gas industry. In 2022, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University. Over the past 19 years, my career has evolved through various roles within the Oil & Energy industry, ranging from field services to senior management positions. Additionally, I founded my own consulting LLC and held executive roles in startup ventures.
 
After experiencing a traumatic event in early 2024 that profoundly affected the homeless community and my entire family, my perspective on life has dramatically shifted. This event has inspired me to focus more on being selfless and has led me to reflect on what truly matters: family, love, and the value of life itself. As I continue my healing journey, I’ve found solace in my faith community at Together We Church in Yukon, OK, and in my role at Cardinal Community House in Oklahoma City. Serving both the community and our clients has provided me with a sense of purpose and has deepened my understanding of the struggles people face. It has also made me more grateful for the blessings we have and can share with others. Seeing the positive impact I can make in the lives of our clients at CCH fuels my passion to contribute my skills and help ensure the continued success of Cardinal Community House.
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