A Second Chance Fueled by Opportunity

When I first walked out of prison, I carried two things: the skills I earned at Northern Oklahoma College’s Digital Media Institute and a determination to build a new future. I knew I could turn those skills into real work — design, media, storytelling — but I needed a place to start. That place was City Central, made possible by the Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA).

Finding a Place to Start: City Central + PCDA

Through PCDA, I rented an office inside City Central for $350 a month. It came with fast internet, a high-quality color printer, and even a 3D printer — the kind of tools that make ideas tangible. But the real difference wasn’t the equipment — it was the people and the community.

Two mentors stood out from day one: Kat Long, Small Business Coordinator at PCDA, and Doreen Abbott of Small Business Accounting Solutions. They guided me through business development, accounting, and the realities of building something from the ground up. That support turned a second chance into a clear path forward.

City Central: A Hub for Growth and Community

City Central isn’t just an office building — it’s a launchpad for possibility. It’s home to entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals building their futures right here in Ponca City. Inside, you’ll find businesses, training programs, event spaces, and community resources that make success possible. One of those is Work Ready Oklahoma, a program that helps people prepare for careers and find stable employment.

City Central blends innovation and community under one roof. Whether you’re starting over, starting up, or scaling forward — this is where the journey begins. If you’re local, you can even drop by the downtown location at 400 E Central Ave, Ponca City, OK 74601.

What PCDA Makes Possible

At the heart of City Central is the mission of PCDA: to accelerate economic growth in Ponca City by supporting startups, small businesses, and primary employers. PCDA connects people to resources, mentorship, and programs that remove barriers and create momentum. For me, that meant structured support, a professional address, and the confidence that I wasn’t building alone.

Lessons From Starting Over

• Tools and space matter — but people matter more. The printers and desks helped, but mentorship and accountability moved me forward faster.
• Community + infrastructure = opportunity. City Central gave me a place to work; PCDA gave me a network, guidance, and access.
• Second chances are really about reinvention. Skills are the foundation; the ecosystem is the scaffolding. Together, you can build a future.

Related Reading from THE MEAN BLOG

• Inside the M.E.A.N. Community System — The Heart of Connection, Collaboration, and Growth
• Would You Let an AI Call You? Let’s Talk About A.I. Outbound Calling
• Manage Your Entire Social Media Network From One Place — The Power of M.E.A.N.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to start, restart, or scale, explore your options:

• Explore flexible space and community at City Central: https://www.citycentralpc.com
• Connect with PCDA for small business assistance and mentorship: https://www.goponca.com
• Upskill with statewide workforce resources: https://workreadyoklahoma.com

My story is proof that when community and opportunity meet, transformation is possible. If you’re wondering whether this could be you — it can. The next step is yours.

Note: I’m grateful to Northern Oklahoma College’s Digital Media Institute for the foundation that made this possible. Learn more at https://www.noc.edu.