OIC of Oklahoma County
Circa 2004
This was the website for the Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. Their current website is at www.oicofoklahomacounty.okpls.org/. Visit this site for information regarding their programs, their tutor center, and other relevant information for students seeking their services.
The content below is from the site's 2004 archived pages.
Welcome to OIC 2004
The mission of the Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. (OIC) is to provide individualized services, education and skills training.
OIC of Oklahoma County is deeply rooted in the Oklahoma City community. Thousands of former students, staff members, board members and others who are familiar with the agency, continue to lend their support in a variety of ways. As the needs of the community changes, OIC will remain dedicated to helping others recognize that they can help themselves.
Business Hours - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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OIC is a 501(c)(3) organization. All contributions are tax deductible and deeply appreciated by the OIC Board of Directors, Advisory Council, Auxiliary, and Staff. Call today to schedule an appointment for a tour of our facilities.
The owner of DD CleanItJanitorial, a business providing office cleaning jobs to local residents was impressed enough with what the OIC is doing that he decided to donate supplies to the organization and advice to the OIC students interested in learning about or / and entering the janitorial services industry. There are skills to be learned besides cleaning, sweeping and mopping, spot cleaning, and window cleaning that most people associate with a cleaning service. Odor removal, carpet steam cleaning, floor refinishing, metal polishing, and even graffiti removal require more that some soap and a brush. Learning about the various cleaning products to use for specific problems is half the learning curve. Keep up the great work, OIC. We salute you.
Programs Offered
OIC accepts students from age 16 years and above. Courses may be offered at no or low cost to the student dependent upon contract restrictions. Services are provided to citizens residing throughout Oklahoma, Cleveland, Logan and Canadian counties. The novelty of our programs lie in their self-paced format. Students are evaluated based solely on their specific needs. Utilizing the Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE), students begin working in the classroom on those areas for which they need the greatest attention. Programs currently offered include:
General Educational Development (GED)
for out-of-school youth and adults who wish to prepare for the GED test and obtain their high school equivalency.
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
designed to help those seeking improvement in the areas of writing, reading, math and life skills.
Computer Software Applications (CSA)
comprehensive clerical support staff training using Windows, Office, Corel Suite, and other programs. Advanced-level training offered from the following clusters: Health/Medical, Accounting/Finance, Data Entry, Customer Service, Legal or General. Internships and Job Placement assistance incorporated for long-term training. Long and short-term courses are available.
TANF Literacy
provides literacy training for non- and low-readers; funding provided by the Department of Human Services and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. Emphasis placed on clients referred by the Department of Human Services.
Life Skills
provides information for students to become better parents, employees, and individuals. Classes addresses problems and needs encountered in everyday life. Required for TANF clients, unless waived by DHS Case Manager.
Career Education & Assessment (CEA)
To prepare OIC graduates for the "next step" of their lives whether entering the workforce, attending college or other training program. Students participate in career surveys to provide clear direction, matching interests with opportunities.
Drug Education & Prevention
conducted through Life Skills and Group Guidance sessions, drug prevention is an ever-present part of every OIC program. Activities culminate to Red Ribbon Week for celebration and awareness.
Workforce Literacy
OIC is also available to provide testing and/or training for companies and their employees. Temporary/Short-Term computer software courses are offered, as well as grade level/reading tests and other programs that can be tailored to the needs of the business.
Target Population
OIC Mission Statement
The mission of the Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. (OIC) is to provide individualized services, education and skills training.
Education and skills training is a foundation for financial independence.
Self-discipline, teamwork, and leadership can be learned.
Honesty and integrity are not compromised.
Respect is earned.
Achievement is recognized and rewarded.
Success is measured by student achievement.
VISION
The Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. (OIC) is a solvent, growing organization with a committed board, volunteer corps, and staff that has an established partnership with businesses, governmental agencies, and other non-profit and educational institutions. Businesses represented on the board give generously in support of the agency. Skills training and education classes are enhanced, where students participate in internships and receive scholarships to institutes of higher education. The facility is conducive to learning, handicapped accessible, and transportation is available.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Any person age 16 years old or above is eligible for agency programs. Courses may be offered at no or low cost to the individual and/or business and industry. The only student-paid cost associated with training is a $10.00 processing fee prior to orientation.
The short-term computer training courses are assessed on a different scale, depending upon training topic. Interested students should contact OIC directly to determine cost for training.
Students referred by the Department of Human Services for Literacy classes are not required to pay the processing fee.
Services are provided to citizens residing throughout Oklahoma County and surrounding areas.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Monies are received from the state, federal, and local government entities, as well as private donations from business, industry, and individuals. The agency continues to apply for foundation and grant funds dedicated to nonprofit educational fulfillment.
A summary of private supporters and board-represented companies includes the following:
- INTEGRIS Health
- United Parcel Services (UPS)
- SMC Construction
- IBC Bank
- O.G.&E+ Services
- Oklahoma Natural Gas
- General Motors Corporation
OIC maintains an Endowment Fund with the Oklahoma City Community Foundation valued at $228,910.00 (June 30, 2003). est. 1979.
OIC awards scholarships totaling $5,000 per year annually to graduates pursuing additional educational opportunities. Scholarship funds are provided by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation Non-Traditional Scholars program.
History
OIC was born out of the urgent needs of the people to secure education and training skills for gainful employment. Too many disadvantaged citizens were unable to vie for worthwhile positions, unable to make the career changes and plans that others would take for granted. Realizing that many of these citizens were minorities, barriers first needed to be broken down giving them access to beneficial employment. Again, it became evident that skills were needed by those for whom employment doors were opened.
To answer these cries for help, the Opportunities Industrialization Centers of America (OIC/A) was founded in 1964 by Reverend Leon H. Sullivan and four hundred concerned ministers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The first OIC was dedicated on a cold January day in an old abandoned jailhouse, renovated using the nickels, dimes and quarters of people in the community--and an anonymous grant. Industry gave its support by contributing equipment, machines and technical assistance. Finally, a program that would bring the jobs and the unemployed together was created.
Since that historic day in 1964, OIC began spreading across America. In December, 1966 just two years later, the self-help concept of OIC reached Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where the late Dr. Charles N. Atkins and a group of citizens opened the doors to the local affiliate, OIC of Oklahoma County. There was no model that OIC could turn to for guidance. The program Dr. Sullivan envisioned would be the first of its kind. So, with the shared foresight of Dr. Atkins and others, OIC chartered its own course in developing programs that would reach those who needed education and training most: the disadvantaged members of the community who were unemployed, underemployed, without means and often without hope.
OIC of Oklahoma County is located at 400 North Walnut Avenue in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The facility is a 16,000 square foot brick building. In the late 1800s, the site was a war department military post established to maintain order until the territorial government was formed.
From inception through June 30, 2004 the OIC of Oklahoma County has served approximately 22,748 individuals. Although the programs have often been changed to provide for the needs of the citizens we serve, the Mission has always remained clear: To provide individualized services, education, and skills training to any who would need a special place--and a special staff--that could help make their dreams of a better, more prepared future.
More Background On OICofOklahomaCounty.org
The Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of Oklahoma County has been a cornerstone in the Oklahoma City community since its establishment in 1966. Founded by Dr. Charles N. Atkins, the organization was inspired by the national OIC movement initiated by Reverend Leon H. Sullivan in 1964. The primary mission of OIC is to provide education, skills training, and support to individuals seeking to improve their employment prospects and overall quality of life.
Historical Background
The national OIC movement began in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under the leadership of Reverend Leon H. Sullivan. Recognizing the need for job training and employment opportunities among African Americans and other marginalized communities, Sullivan established the first OIC to address these disparities. The success of this initiative led to the creation of local affiliates across the United States, including the OIC of Oklahoma County.
In December 1966, Dr. Charles N. Atkins, alongside a group of dedicated citizens, founded the OIC of Oklahoma County. The organization was established to provide education and vocational training to disadvantaged individuals, enabling them to secure gainful employment and achieve self-sufficiency. Over the years, OIC has adapted its programs to meet the evolving needs of the community, consistently focusing on empowering individuals through education and skill development.
Programs and Services
OIC offers a variety of programs aimed at enhancing the skills and employability of its participants. These programs include:
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General Educational Development (GED) Preparation: Assisting individuals in obtaining their high school equivalency diploma.
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Adult Basic Education (ABE): Providing instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, and life skills to improve literacy and numeracy.
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Computer Software Applications (CSA): Offering training in various computer applications to enhance digital literacy and job readiness.
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Life Skills Training: Equipping participants with essential skills for personal development and employment success.
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Career Education and Assessment (CEA): Guiding individuals in career planning and development through assessments and counseling.
These programs are designed to be self-paced, allowing participants to progress according to their individual needs and learning styles.
Community Impact
OIC has made significant contributions to the Oklahoma County community by addressing educational and employment disparities. By providing accessible education and training opportunities, the organization has empowered countless individuals to improve their socioeconomic status. OIC's efforts have also contributed to reducing crime rates and fostering a more productive community by addressing the root causes of poverty and unemployment.
Press and Media Coverage
In October 2024, News 9 highlighted OIC's impact on closing education gaps over its 58-year history. The report emphasized the organization's role in improving literacy rates and providing support to individuals seeking to enhance their education and employment prospects. The article also featured testimonials from participants who credited OIC with transforming their lives through education and support.
Reviews and Testimonials
Employee reviews of OIC reflect a positive work environment and a strong commitment to the organization's mission. On Indeed, employees have praised the professional environment and the rewarding nature of the work. One former employee noted, "Working for OIC has been very rewarding for me. It has provided me with skills that I can take almost anywhere and become a great employee." Another review highlighted the supportive management and the organization's dedication to helping people help themselves.
Similarly, reviews on Glassdoor indicate a culture of teamwork and a focus on community uplift. Employees have expressed satisfaction with the meaningful work and the positive impact on the community. One review stated, "OIC takes care of residents in the area who need anything—a job, medical care, mental health care, or connections to resources. It feels good to be part of a group that's making the world a better place."
Cultural and Social Significance
OIC's commitment to education and skill development has had a profound cultural and social impact on the Oklahoma County community. By providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, the organization has empowered individuals to break the cycle of poverty and achieve self-sufficiency. OIC's programs have also fostered a sense of community and collaboration, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards common goals.
Financial Support and Partnerships
OIC operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, relying on funding from state, federal, and local government entities, as well as private donations from businesses, industries, and individuals. The organization has established partnerships with various businesses and educational institutions to enhance its programs and services. These collaborations have enabled OIC to provide internships, scholarships, and additional resources to its participants, further supporting their educational and career aspirations.
Future Outlook
As OIC continues to evolve, the organization remains dedicated to addressing the changing needs of the community. By staying attuned to the economic and educational challenges faced by individuals in Oklahoma County, OIC aims to develop and implement programs that provide relevant and effective support. The organization's ongoing commitment to education, skill development, and community empowerment positions it as a vital resource for individuals seeking to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.
The Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County stands as a testament to the power of education and community support in transforming lives. Through its comprehensive programs and unwavering commitment to its mission, OIC has made a lasting impact on the Oklahoma County community. By continuing to adapt and respond to the needs of its participants, OIC remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for those seeking to build a better future.