Patricia Wood

Patricia Wood is a dedicated board member of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women Chahta, channeling her lifelong commitment to justice and advocacy into addressing the urgent issue of MMIW. With a rich history of service and leadership, She founded her own ministry, Ministry in Action, in 1982. For over four decades, she has been actively involved in providing support, guidance, and resources to individuals and communities in need, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to serving others. 

In 1982, she began her career at the Plano Police Department, where she served with distinction and contributed significantly to the community's safety and well-being. During her time at the Plano Police Department, she played a key role in initiating and organizing the Shop with a Cop program, which has since become a cherished tradition in many communities across the country. 

Later, Patricia transitioned into the role of a private investigator, further deepening her understanding of the intricacies of solving crimes and seeking justice for victims. She also worked at Brown's Funeral Home, where she provided compassionate support to grieving families during their time of need. Throughout her career, she has also worked in security, utilizing her expertise to ensure the safety and well-being of others in various settings. 

Driven by her passion for justice and her experiences in law enforcement and investigation, she is particularly dedicated to addressing the issue of MMIW. She recognizes the critical role that law enforcement and investigation play in addressing these cases and is committed to advocating for improved protocols, resources, and support systems to better serve Indigenous communities. She has also extended her ministry's reach to provide assistance in times of crisis, she organized revivals in Broken Bow in 2012 and Tishomingo in 2013, bringing spiritual nourishment and support to the communities in those areas. Furthermore, Patricia exemplifies her commitment to serving others by helping Native churches gather Christmas toys for the past 25 years. 

As a board member of MMIW-Chahta, Patricia brings her wealth of experience, expertise, and passion to the forefront of the fight for justice. She collaborates with fellow advocates, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to raise awareness, and support families affected by these tragedies. 

Patricia Wood's lifelong commitment to service, her dedication to justice, and her unwavering passion for addressing the issue of MMIW make her an invaluable asset to the movement and a beacon of hope for those seeking answers and accountability.