Stephanie Frost
Chairperson
Stephanie has served on the Board of Directors since 2008 and as its Chairperson since 2015. She sits on the Auction Committee where she assists with solicitation of donations and promotion of the organization's largest annual fundraiser. She works part time as a dental hygienist in a pedodontic office and loves to help children have positive dental experiences as well as develop healthy habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
She graduated with her B.S. in Dental Hygiene from the University of Oklahoma in 1996. Stephanie and her family moved to Keller, TX over 16 years ago, fully intending to return to Oklahoma as soon as possible. They quickly realized Texas isn’t so bad after all and love to call it home. She and Ron have been happily married for 22 years and have two daughters. Brighton is a sophomore at Oklahoma Christian University studying History/Pre-Law and Macy is a junior at Keller High School.
Their family fell in love with the Fortress mission over 10 years ago. As part of their Christian faith, they believe in personal responsibility to serve others and through that service offer hope and encouragement. They love how the Fortress staff and incredible volunteers breathe hope into the lives of children and their families in many ways including; after school snacks, academic and emotional support, mentoring, spiritual nurturing, fun and games, dinner — the list could go on and on. Fortress is a special place doing important work and they are thankful for God’s constant provisions and blessings on the work being done to change lives and break the cycle of poverty.
Stephanie participated in a Fortress Focus Segment called Faces of Fortress. Read more below>>
Faces of Fortress - Chairperson, Board of directors
Q. How did you first connect with Fortress, and what was it about our ministry and mission that appealed to you?
I was looking for a way to serve in our community, preferably with opportunities to include my family. As a mom, I felt it was my responsibility to teach my girls the importance of giving back and contributing to their communities in meaningful ways. I was introduced to Fortress through friends and it was the perfect fit! I loved that Fortress was grounded in faith and focused on empowering students through education. Through the after school program, they provided a safe and welcoming environment for students as well as making a meaningful and lasting impact on their lives. Since that time, years ago, programming has absolutely exploded and our Fortress leadership continues to faithfully follow God's call. It's so exciting to see God continually multiply and bless their efforts.
Q. In what ways do you volunteer at Fortress?
Stephanie and her husband dressed as Jesse and Woody at Trunk or Treat 2022
I serve on the board. I also organize the teacher workroom a couple of times a month. My husband and I and friends love to hand out candy at Trunk or Treat and see all the kiddos dressed up. We also love attending the StoryLand dinner and auction with our friends. It's a beautiful night out, a lot of fun and some friendly (mostly 😉) competitive bidding for awesome auction items!
Q. Many people begin volunteering with the idea that it is all about what they do for an organization only to find later that serving enriches their life too! How has serving Fortress as a volunteer and as a board member been an enriching experience for you?
I always walk out the doors of Fortress with a full heart. Volunteering reminds me of what is really important and it puts life in perspective. Fortress employees are full of passion for the mission. That kind of passion is contagious. I've also made a lot of special friendships through serving at Fortress as well as on the board.
Q. If you could speak to a prospective Fortress donor, what would you say?
Fortress is special. It's the children and families we serve. It's the passion behind the heart and work of our staff. You feel it when you walk in the door. Your contribution matters. All gifts are thoughtfully utilized.