Gold Dome Multicultural Society – Organizational Biography

Gold Dome Multicultural Society (GDMS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2005 to promote cross-cultural understanding in Oklahoma City’s Asian District through art, music, cultural education and community engagement. For many years GDMS served as a gathering point where neighbors could learn from one another, celebrate heritage and build social bridges across languages, cultures and life experiences.

As the community changed and the pandemic years brought significant loss of life, diminished volunteer capacity and aging among core participants, GDMS took time to pause and reassess its purpose. Organizational records note that after 2020, GDMS lost multiple founding members and board leaders and needed time to thoughtfully redefine how they would go forward.

That reflection led to a renewed mission launched in 2025 with a clear focus on strengthening the wellbeing, connection and dignity of older adults in and around the Asian District. Many of the seniors GDMS now serves are Immigrant-Americans who helped build the district decades ago. Some live alone or far from family. Others navigate language barriers, lack transportation, or are unfamiliar with health, financial or insurance systems. GDMS exists to close those gaps by providing consistent social connection and culturally relevant support. Monthly gatherings include shared meals, adaptable physical activity, wellness and safety presentations, language assistance and practical guidance so participants can understand and use services that matter to daily living.

This senior-focused mission still reflects the organization’s original DNA: cultural respect, shared learning and community expression, but now channels those values toward a population that is highly vulnerable to isolation. The organization’s revised mission statement affirms its commitment to “strengthen the wellbeing of older adults by offering belonging, support and practical resources that help them live healthy and connected lives,” while continuing to honor cultural identity and community storytelling.

GDMS envisions a community where every elder feels seen and supported, and where aging with dignity does not depend on language, income, or proximity to family.

The organization welcomes participants of all backgrounds and does not require any specific cultural or religious identity, a reflection of the inclusive values that shaped its beginning.

Today, the organization is working to rebuild capacity through partnerships, board development and expanded programming. 2026 goals include transportation for seniors who no longer drive, compensation for qualified presenters, and multilingual communication tools to help participants and their caregivers access program information.

What has not changed is the heart of the mission: GDMS is still a place where people are welcomed, respected and invited into community. What has evolved is the audience that needs that support most. By centering older adults, GDMS preserves heritage, reduces isolation and ensures that the generation that helped build Oklahoma City’s Asian District can continue to thrive right here at home.

2005

May 14 - The Grand Opening Dome Building & Gallery

October 29 - Multicultural Masquerade Ball

June 18 - Concert of Harpist Jessica Tate

September 15 - Multicultural Focus Group by Oklahoma center for non-profits also hosted a Salsa Night

2006

January 28 - Lunar New Year Celebration

May 1st — Anniversary Party and Asian Health Fair

August 12, Children’s Language Arts Program in Mandarin

February — Black Heritage Celebration

July 1 - Popped Culture.

November 11th - International Bead Festival, Diverse Artwork ExhibiT

February 17 — Lunar New Year Festival with a gallery featuring Asian Art by Beverly Herdon

December 1- Dedication of Fletcher Christian Vines Children’s Gallery.

2007

March 10—“A tribute to Black History” Featuring Tayana Fazlalizadeh

September 21 -Pinwheels for Peace Celebration

November 16 - 17th - Une Culture Nouvelle, Cultural Mask made by six local High School

March 3 - City Wide Centennial Arts Competition for Elementary, Middle, and High Schools.

May 1 - International Artists Week Exhibit

November 15 - Art Exhibit by Dennis Olson

2008

February 9 - Lunar New Year Celebration

September 13 - Let’s turn the Gold Dome Upside-Down!!! Exhibiting art b Artist & Illustrator Dana Helms. Drawing Demonstration & Traditional Flamenco Dancing.