Our Story – Helping Others Help Themselves
Bexar County OIC, an affiliate of Opportunities Industrialization Centers of America (OICA), traces its roots back to 1964 when the visionary Reverend Leon H. Sullivan founded OICA. Established in 1973 and officially incorporated in February 1974 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation, Bexar County OIC has been recognized by the IRS as a public charity. With a rich history spanning almost five decades, our mission has steadfastly focused on empowering individuals of all races facing economic challenges, providing them with the knowledge and skills essential for long-term success and self-sufficiency.
At the heart of our commitment lies the belief that education is the inherent right of every individual. Our meticulously crafted programs aim to deliver not only job skills but also life skills and opportunities for personal development. We are dedicated to fostering individual growth and independence, recognizing the transformative power of education and a job in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Beyond education, our primary focus is on addressing the fundamental needs of the people we serve. We strive to cultivate a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels valued and supported. Our overarching goal is to contribute to the creation of a stronger, more just community by enabling individuals to unlock their utmost potential.
As we continue our journey, our unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and communities remains at the forefront. Through education, support, and a dedication to basic human needs, Bexar County OIC is determined to be a beacon of hope, creating positive change and fostering self-sufficiency for all.
Geographical Location
Situated in the second-largest city in Texas and the seventh-largest city in the U.S., Bexar County OIC is positioned in the southeastern quadrant of the city. This community represents a minority population of 73%, making it the single largest concentration of Afro-Americans in San Antonio. Unfortunately, this area reflects one of the highest illiteracy rates in the city, with a poverty population of 51%.
According to the 1990 U.S. Census, around 25 to 35 percent of total households in this area receive public assistance, and the median family income is $9,146.00. Bexar County OIC is committed to addressing the challenges faced by this community and providing support to uplift and empower its residents.
Target Population
Bexar County OIC extends its services to disadvantaged populations across the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. This inclusive outreach encompasses individuals with diverse backgrounds, including ex-offenders, veterans, TANF recipients, SSI recipients, and high school dropouts. Our commitment is to support and empower individuals facing various challenges, providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities for personal and professional development.
Our Mission
Our mission is to eradicate illiteracy and poverty in San Antonio and Bexar County. We achieve this by offering comprehensive literacy programs, vocational education and employment services, empowering individuals and families to transition towards self-sufficiency.
Our Philosophy
At Bexar County OIC, our fundamental commitment is to assist individuals in helping themselves. What sets us apart from other service providers are the core principles that underlie OIC’s philosophy:
- Belief in Individual Growth: OIC holds the belief in the innate desire and capability of every individual to grow and achieve self-reliance when provided with job skills, life skills, proper motivation, and personal development opportunities.
- Individual-Centric Approach: In OIC, the individual served takes precedence as the most important person in the entire organization.
- Holistic Service Provision: OIC adopts a “whole person” approach to service delivery, addressing all aspects of individual needs comprehensively.
- OIC Feeder Program: All OIC trainees are required to participate in the OIC Feeder Program, designed to prepare them for jobs or skills training through diagnostics, educational initiatives, and motivational training, with all training goals oriented towards employment.
- Flexible Learning Paths: OIC values selected courses that allow for open-entry and open-exit, enabling trainees to progress at their own pace.
- Dignity and Respect: Every person, without exception, should be treated with dignity and respect.
- Inclusivity: OIC adopts a screening approach that focuses on bringing people in rather than excluding them.
Our Objectives
- Pathways out of Poverty: Our mission is to create viable pathways out of poverty by offering marketable job skills and education. This is achieved through a comprehensive program that includes high-tech and high-demand Job Skill Training, Prevocational/Job Readiness Training, Life Skills Training, Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, and Workplace Literacy.
- Barrier Reduction: We are committed to breaking down barriers to employment. Our approach includes providing post-job placement services for up to 6 months after employment, ensuring ongoing support for a successful transition into the workforce.
- Holistic Service Delivery: Embracing a holistic approach, we address services collaboratively through strategic partnerships in areas such as childcare, transportation, housing, and utilities assistance. By tackling these challenges, we aim to eliminate any impediments that might hinder a positive participant outcome.
Our Board
Bobbie J. Turner Board Chair
Dr. Regina Butler
Dr. Richard Lewis
Dr. Thomas Scott
Luther Sweeney
Veronica Whitfield
Our Staff
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Testimonials
What People Say About Us
