Jack and Jay Evans: Twin Brothers, Builders, Developers, and Breakers of Generational Cycles
In this inspiring episode of Voices of OKC, Jed sits down with Jack and Jay Evans, identical twins, successful Oklahoma developers and homebuilders, and longtime supporters of City Center. Their story is one of resilience, family, hard work, and breaking generational cycles that often repeat themselves.
Jack and Jay share openly about growing up with deaf parents, navigating childhood poverty, relying on the Salvation Army for Christmas gifts and basic needs, and experiencing many of the same struggles faced by City Center youth today. They talk about the emotional weight of empty refrigerators, utilities being shut off, and the embarrassment of inviting friends into a home their parents struggled to maintain.
Despite these challenges, the brothers made a conscious determination to build a different kind of future. They worked full time while taking night classes, completed associate degrees through Enid’s Higher Education Center, and eventually transferred to UCO to finish their education. They often commuted from Enid just to attend class. Their journey is a masterclass in grit, discipline, and refusing to stay stuck in generational patterns.
Today, Jack and Jay lead respected companies across the Oklahoma City metro. Jay is the owner of Two Structures Homes, focused on building quality homes that give families dignity and generational opportunity. Jack oversees Caris Holdings, a vertically integrated development group that includes land development, homebuilding, rentals, and construction services. Both are deeply committed to using their influence to strengthen the community.
The brothers also share how they became connected with City Center, first through the Spinozi Christmas campaign, then through attending the annual gala, hearing powerful stories, and touring Santa’s workshop. They were moved by the dignity-based giving model, where parents choose their kids’ gifts, and by how much City Center maximizes impact with limited overhead. Their support has been transformative, and their story deeply resonates with families who have lived similar experiences.
What You Will Hear in This Episode• Jack and Jay's upbringing with deaf parents
• Childhood poverty, empty refrigerators, and help from the Salvation Army
• How they broke out of generational patterns
• Working full-time and taking four night classes each week
• Commuting from Enid to UCO to finish their degrees
• Starting and growing Two Structures Homes and Caris Holdings
• Why they believe homeownership creates generational change
• Their first impressions of City Center and why they chose to support it
• The importance of dignity, stewardship, and hope
"We did not just grow up without money. We grew up in poor ways."
"You can change your situation incrementally. A little today, more tomorrow."
"There is no balance in business. You do what needs to be done."
"Hope is dreaming, then acting on those dreams."