/ Founder & History
Dr. Leon H. Sullivan
The Appeal
Recognizing that job opportunities for African-Americans were extremely limited, Dr. Leon H. Sullivan appeals to Philadelphia’s largest businesses to interview young blacks for jobs.
Dr. Sullivan founded the first OIC training center
Working out of an abandoned jailhouse in north Philadelphia, Dr. Sullivan founded the first OIC training center to provide employment training and retraining in impoverished communities.
The Expansion
OIC receives national recognition and begins to expand, establishing centers in eight additional cities.
Build Brother Build
Dr. Sullivan publishes “Build Brother Build,“ his seminal work that details the philosophy, birth and development of the OIC model.
OIC of America, Inc
OIC of America, Inc. is established to serve as the national headquarters to OIC Affiliates and provide technical assistance to communities replicating the OIC model.
OIC becomes a prime national contractor
OIC received $32,600,000 from the Department of Labor to serve as “a prime national contractor” for manpower services throughout the U.S. for more than a decade.
OIC of Wilson Established
OIC of Wilson was established in 1972 by Howard Jones with a mission to empower individuals through education, workforce training, and employment opportunities while strengthening the Wilson community.
Quantum Opportunity Program
OICA develops the Quantum Opportunity Program (QOP), a multi-year, intensive case management and mentoring program for high school youth. The program is rigorously evaluated and eventually adapted by the Eisenhower Foundation for widespread dissemination.
The Impact
OIC has trained more than 3 million people, and placed more than 2.5 million in jobs, with its alumni collectively earning $80 billion a year (L.H. Sullivan, Moving Mountains, Judson Press, 1998).
Food Distribution and Emergency Assistance
OIC of Wilson strengthened its commitment to fighting hunger by providing quarterly food distributions to families in need. In 2010, nearly 2,000 families received food assistance through one distribution, while another provided more than 1,500 meals worth of groceries. These efforts demonstrated OIC’s growing role in addressing food insecurity and…
OIC prepare workers for high-demand “green” careers
Leveraging $12.8 million in US Department of Labor grants through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act , OICA launched programs in 7 cities to prepare workers for high-demand “green” careers.
Introducing WIOA
OIC of Wilson transitioned from the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), continuing its commitment to connecting individuals with education, workforce training, employment, and career opportunities.
ITTS Program Established
OIC of Wilson launched the ITTS program to promote community health and wellness by providing access to STD/STI testing, education, and prevention services. The program helped increase awareness, encourage early testing, and connect individuals with resources to support healthier communities.
OIC Wilson Inc launches Re-entry initiative (SOAR)
SOAR Re-entry Program OIC Wilson Inc launches Re-entry initiative (SOAR 2) to provide returning citizens vocational training, work readiness and education to help reduce recidivism. In collaboration with OIC of America, through the U.S. Department of Labor, OIC Wilson Inc. offers services catered to adults over 25 years old who…
SOAR 4 Program Launches
OIC of Wilson launched the SOAR 4 program to help young people build the skills, confidence, and support needed to succeed in education, employment, and life. The program focused on personal development, career readiness, and connecting participants with opportunities to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
STEMLinx Program Launches
OIC of Wilson launched STEMLinx to introduce young people to opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program helps participants explore STEM careers, develop hands-on skills, build confidence, and connect their education to future career opportunities in high-demand fields.
SOAR 6 Program Launches
OIC of Wilson launches SOAR 6 to continue expanding opportunities for young people through education, workforce development, career preparation, and personal growth. The program provides participants with the skills, resources, and support they need to overcome barriers, pursue their goals, and successfully transition into employment or continued education.
OIC of Wilson Launches SOAR 7
OIC of Wilson launched SOAR 7 in 2024, continuing its commitment to helping young people overcome barriers and build a stronger foundation for their future. The program provides participants with education, workforce preparation, personal development, and supportive services designed to help them achieve their goals and move toward long-term success.
SOAR 8/Growth Opportunities 5
OIC of Wilson provides formerly incarcerated young adults with reentry and workforce development services to help them successfully transition back into their communities. Through career preparation, employment support, and individualized services, participants are equipped to overcome barriers, build sustainable futures, and reduce recidivism.