The Why?

by Bryan Wilks Ten Co-Founder

People often ask why I'm involved with this downtown project and why it's important to me. I've never shared the reason before, and I didn't plan to, but some friends encouraged me to tell my story so people would understand my motivation. The truth is, this project represents more than just an urban development to me—it’s a chance to give back to a community like Jenks that shaped who I am. So here's my story, thanks for the read.

I was born in Hayti, Missouri. My biological father was a country singer, and my biological mother came from a poor, abusive background and still faces challenges. When she discovered she was pregnant, she was uncertain of what to do, especially since my father wasn't in the picture much, and, struggling financially, she felt her only option was to place me in the welfare system. I’m grateful she continued with the pregnancy even though it was difficult for both of us. Sadly, events unfolded tragically: instead of turning me over to the state as was required, my mother’s doctor sold me on the black market, leading to my placement with extremely abusive people.

The part of the story I like to highlight is when the good Lord intervened and started to create new opportunities for me. Although my circumstances were dire, little blessings began to surface—strangers showed unexpected kindness, and chances for escape and healing came to me through the people I now call my true parents, Tom and Jackie Wilks, who adopted me. The details of how this came about, and who they were, form the core of my drive in downtown.

Tom and Jackie Wilks are everything I want to be. They rescued me from a life that probably would have ended badly, maybe even in prison.or on the streets. They showed me what love, stability, and true family could look like, and their example inspires everything I do today.

Tom & Jackie Wilks

Tom possessed more talent than nearly anyone I've ever known; he was handsome, diligent, intelligent, and extremely personable. In his youth, he had every advantage, and even attended law school at LSU before feeling a spiritual calling to ministry—not just any ministry, but to small-town, small-church work that was deeply local and community-oriented.

Jackie was his equal, a natural athlete, and also herself very smart and beautiful. She had a warmth and strength that drew people to her, and she poured that same energy into everything she did—whether coaching sports, supporting the church, or helping neighbors in need.

When they got married their focus was 100% not on money, because they never had any, but helping people, loving people and caring for people. This led them to take not only me out of the wealth fare state but also my brother and give him the love and stability he deserved. Together, we became a family built on foundation of caring, not wealth, and that shaped the way I view the world and my place in it.

In the small town of Meeker, Oklahoma, a few miles out on a dirt road, Tom and Jackie's home was where everyone gathered, always caring for people. Back then, church was different—my dad was the Pastor, and church wasn't just a place, it was part of our everyday life, happening in our kitchen, living room, and during Sunday and Wednesday potlucks. I've never seen a house so full of love. Many people came to us with troubles and left with hope, feeling loved and not alone.

Although I come from a different background, and was undoubtedly shaped by my surroundings, I found my own, unique way of expressing myself. My parents nurtured that individuality, involving the community to support me, and encouraged and guided me to forge my own journey—not in ministry, but as an entrepreneur. Their unwavering support taught me the value of community, resilience, and giving back—principles I carry with me in every project I undertake, especially this one.

I carved my own path, achieved business success, and reached financial stability entirely on my own, receiving no financial assistance—just the steadfast support, encouragement, and exemplary guidance of my adoptive parents, Tom and Jackie, along with the close-knit community of Meeker and Shawnee, Oklahoma. Their example became the blueprint for how I approach both life and business—grounded in gratitude, hard work, and a desire to serve others. I owe much of my success to the foundation of compassion and integrity that Tom, Jackie, and our community instilled in me.

Sadly, while I was in my 30s, both Tom and Jackie were diagnosed at a young age with terminal illnesses, almost simultaneously. My wife, Courtney Wilks, and I, as their living family, witnessed every step of their journey. The experience was deeply rewarding, profoundly sad, and eye-opening—stretching over a long period, with all the caregiving falling to us. Despite the challenges, we learned so much and were there for them until the end, doing all we possibly could. This ultimately left us feeling compelled to give back in their memory and continue the legacy of kindness and service that they embodied.

While at my core I am driven, sometimes possess a big ego, have a bad attitude, and make plenty of mistakes, I am involved in downtown revitalization for one reason—I aspire to be like Tom and Jackie Wilks. I fail often, and they would have done this far better than me, but I still feel compelled, and I will see through what was started come hell or high water. I believe in this community, and I am confident that all the conflict, blood, sweat, and tears ultimately lead to young men and women who will be inspired to achieve great things, all because their community created something amazing. I believe neither the government nor the church will make this happen—it falls to us.

Whether you love me or hate me, I pursue this mission fearlessly and will use the skills and resources at my disposal to make a difference. My commitment is to persist, regardless of setbacks, and always prioritize people in this journey.