Our Story
Rooted in Faith.
Called to Serve.
We exist because veterans who gave everything deserve more than to come home to nothing. Next Step Restoration was born out of that conviction.
How We Began
A Spirit-led conversation that became a calling.
Next Step Restoration Outreach Ministries was born out of a Spirit-led conversation between a brother and sister who couldn't ignore what they saw happening around them. As they talked, a central theme emerged — three vulnerable populations being left behind by society: children aging out of foster care, individuals graduating from long-term drug and alcohol treatment programs, and homeless veterans struggling to access the medical care and services they had earned through their service.
That conversation was personal. Our cousin Henry, a veteran and proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, came home from his tour of duty to walk the streets of their small Oklahoma town — homeless, hopeless, and in desperate need of emotional and physical support. He was eventually placed in a nursing home, where he has since passed. Henry's story is not unique. But it is the story that moved us to act.
Moved by compassion and guided by faith, we felt compelled to do something — not just talk about the problem, but answer the call. What began as a Spirit-led dialogue grew into a full outreach ministry committed to walking alongside those who have been overlooked and underserved. Today, Next Step Restoration stands as a testament to what happens when two people say yes to a calling — and to the memory of those like Henry, who deserved so much more.
We didn't set out to start a ministry. We simply said yes to a Spirit-led conversation — and that yes changed everything.— Tina Ratcliff, Co-Founder
Our Vision
A community where no veteran is left behind.
We envision a future where every veteran who has served our country returns home to stable housing, access to healthcare, and a community that honors their sacrifice — not just in words, but in action.
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
Compassion
We see every veteran as a whole person — not a case number. Our work is rooted in genuine care for the people we serve.
Honor
Those who served deserve to be served in return. We hold their sacrifice in the highest regard and let that drive everything we do.
Community
Restoration happens in relationship. We build bridges between veterans, volunteers, donors, and the broader community.
Faith
Our work is grounded in the belief that every person has inherent dignity and that restoration is always possible.
The People Behind the Mission
Our Leadership Team
Jay Cox
President, Co-Founder & Director of Transportation
A military veteran and tribal member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Jay co-founded Next Step Restoration with a firsthand understanding of the challenges veterans face when they return home. As Director of Transportation, he leads our efforts to ensure no veteran is left without a ride to the care they need. His vision is simple: no veteran left without a roof or a ride.
Tina Ratcliff
Founder & Executive Director
Tina founded Next Step Restoration Outreach Ministries in response to a Spirit-led calling to serve vulnerable populations. A tribal member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, she brings both cultural heritage and professional expertise to the ministry's work. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, she understands the deep connection between negative environmental conditions and the mental health of individuals — and she brings that insight to every aspect of the ministry's work.
Darcy Phelps-Samples
Board Member
Darcy brings a true volunteer's heart to the board. With over 20 years of community service experience — including caring for the elderly through music, working with youth at her local co-op, and managing property operations — she embodies the spirit of selfless service that defines Next Step Restoration.
Thomas White
Board Member
A faithful Christian and disabled military veteran, Thomas brings a wealth of practical expertise to the board. His background in housing development, construction, and property management makes him an invaluable voice in our mission to provide stable housing for veterans in need.
Janice Cox
Board Member
A disabled military veteran and dedicated public servant, Janice has served as the food drive coordinator for the NALC (National Association of Letter Carriers) since 2002. Known for her heart for the elderly — including daily check-ins on seniors along her mail route — she brings deep compassion and community commitment to everything she does.
Ready to join the mission?
Whether you give, volunteer, or simply spread the word — there is a place for you in this work.