The Team

Annie Czaruk

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Annie Czaruk serves as the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Fostering Hope of Muskogee. Nearly 7 years ago she and a friend learned of the staggering gaps in the state’s foster care system. Gaps like a 4-6 week (or longer) waiting time for a foster family to receive funding, ensuring that emergency needs were being missed repeatedly. Children were forced to fit whatever belongings they could into a trash bag. What started in March of 2016 as a single backpack full of necessities assembled in a single room, has since grown into a nonprofit serving thousands of children throughout Oklahoma.

Late nights and emergencies are a big part of Fostering Hope, and it was one of those late nights that Annie saw an additional way to help. It all took place because of a special baby. This child was removed from an unsafe home and needed a bath and to be fed before being placed in the state’s care. She learned that the only immediate option for this baby would be a bath in the public sink at the DHS Office and a wait time on a nap mat in a dark cubicle for up to 12 hours. Annie knew this vulnerable baby boy deserved much more. 8 months later the Fostering Hope House was established thanks to a local family who felt called to help their community. We call this one-of-a-kind house a “peaceful space for the in-between places.”

Since opening the Fostering Hope House doors in February of 2020, FH has become a model for new hope houses to be created by the state of Oklahoma. In addition to that, Oklahoma saw the need to separate children’s services from other programs DHS provides and create a gentler and more welcoming environment for their most vulnerable citizens. 

Annie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from the University of Oklahoma. She is married to Greg, and they have two children, Annebelle and Wagner. She is proud of the work they have accomplished together, and it is a privilege to be the bridge connecting caring and generous people to ensure every child receives essential resources, milestone celebrations, and healing experiences.

Nikki Foster

Fostering Hope Support Team

Nikki Foster, a lifelong resident of Muskogee, Oklahoma, brings a deep commitment and personal passion to her role at Fostering Hope. Married to Taylor Foster, Nikki is a dedicated mother to five children and adores spending time with her three grandchildren, cherishing every moment of joy and family life.

With a heart full of love for children and a fearless spirit to advocate for those in need, Nikki has been drawn naturally into a pivotal support role at Fostering Hope. Her personal experiences as a mother and grandmother fuel her dedication to ensuring that every child receives the love and care they deserve.

Courtney Ritter

Fostering Hope Support Team

For over a decade, Courtney expertly managed a marina, balancing her professional responsibilities with raising her boys. Her love for the outdoors and travel reflects her adventurous spirit and her appreciation for life's vast experiences. Currently, Courtney is a cherished member of the team at Hoos Pediatrics, where she has worked for nearly five years, embracing the daily dynamics of her work family.

Courtney’s journey with Fostering Hope began with a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of children during their most vulnerable moments. She is driven by a heartfelt mission to provide safe, loving temporary placements for children, offering a comforting ear and vital emotional support during confusing and challenging times. Courtney's compassionate approach and unwavering dedication make her a fundamental part of the Fostering Hope family.