Toni Godwin is a native of Bristow Oklahoma. She is the 7th of nine children.
Growing up in Bristow, Godwin’s family was very talented in sports. She had many siblings who received scholarships to play ball in college, as well as multiple nephews. She was gifted in basketball and graduated from Bristow High School in 1982. She was awarded with a scholarship from Seminole State College where she received her associates degree in applied science. She continued on to Cameron University in Lawton, where she graduated with a bachelors of science in criminal justice.
In the heart of Bristow, Godwin stands as a pillar of strength and compassion, serving as the Executive Director of Bristow Social Services. Her dedication to uplifting those in need exemplifies the spirit of community and service that resonates deeply as we recognize her excellence in Honor of Black History.
Godwin’s journey is one of resilience and unwavering commitment. Her life experiences marked both by challenges and triumph have shaped her into a leader who understands the importance of empathy and support. Here’s what makes her contributions so significant.
From early on Godwin has always had a heart for a life of service. From 1998 to 2003, she was the resident advisor at Sac & Fox Nation Juvenile Detention Center located in Stroud. She advanced to juvenile director in 2004 where she served until 2007. The primary goal of the juvenile director at the Sac & Fox Nation is to provide a safe and secure environment for juveniles within the Sac & Fox Nation’s jurisdiction. Emphasis is placed on rehabilitation, addressing underlying issues like substance abuse, and fostering positive social and personal growth.
As Godwin continued to gain knowledge and experience, her next professional role was shelter coordinator at the Youth Services of Tulsa where she served from 2007 to 2011 at Youth Services of Tulsa. She directly supported at-risk and homeless youth. She lovingly and patiently mentored many orphaned and homeless children. She provided counseling, life-skills training, resources, necessary aid, and created a safe environment. It was there at Youth Services of Tulsa where she gained the wealth of knowledge and experience, coordinating access to community services, mental health support and other necessary re- sources. Godwin has years of experience managing operations including overseeing facilities, systems and adherence to agency policies and procedures.
It is these years of education and experience that define her excellence as executive director of Bristow Social Services. Since 2011, Godwin has served as the executive director of Bristow Social Services (located at 1705 S. Chestnut, Bristow, Oklahoma phone: (918)367-5400 website: bristowsocialservices. org) “To be the primary coordinator and provider of life crisis services in Bristow and the surrounding areas by providing food, clothing, utility, prescription and emergency financial assistance” One of the many volunteer programs Godwin is involved in is the United Way Bristow Day of Caring. Various businesses, churches, organizations and the Bristow Public Schools come together to give back to Bristow and show just how much they care about Bristow and she has been an active representative since 2011.
Officially recognized in 2005 by New Life International Worship Center and ordained in 2009 Godwin’s love for the Lord is recognized in all of the good works she does throughout not only the community, but the world through various mission trips to Mexico and Africa.
In 2018, the Bristow Chamber of Commerce named Godwin, “Citizen of the Year” for all her hard work and contributions to our community. In 2022, the City of Bristow renamed the park located on East 10th street across from New Life International Worship Center “The Toni Godwin Park”. The leadership class built new picnic tables, the gazebo was painted, the turnpike authority donated flower pots from the Bristow Gate, and a new jungle gym playground equipment was added for the children to enjoy.
Godwin is a servant leader whose christ-like example epitomizes her name priceless and of great value! She currently serves as the assistant pastor of New Life International Worship Center under the leadership of Pastor Eric Parker. She began her journey in ministry early in life and became officially recognized in 2005 by New Life International Worship Center and ordained in 2009. Her love for the Lord is recognized in all of the good works she does throughout not only the community, but the world through various mission trips to Mexico and Africa.
In respect of Black Excellence and in honor of Black History Month we introduce Toni Godwin. A multi-talented, multi-gifted hubble servant of God she loves her family. Godwin has two sons Toneal and Terrant and five grandchildren: Jayden, Tyree, Terrant Jr., Neveah and Jayecon.
Godwin’s heart desire is to serve and share the love of Christ with others and to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).