PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2020
Philadelphia, PA. – The National Headquarters of ‘Opportunities Industrialization Centers of America (OICA) of Philadelphia, PA. For more than 55 years, OIC of America and its 31 affiliates in 21 states continue to offer proven programs and strategies that address the overlapping inequities and systemic disinvestment in communities of color. This investment by the US Department of Labor allows us to serve more people and prepare them for meaningful employment and a pathway to a career while providing additional supports that assist them with becoming contributing members of this society. Through this current opportunity, the OICA network will serve more than 2,000 participants who are currently or formerly involved in the criminal justice system in the following locations:
- MN – North and South Minneapolis
- FL – Broward and Miami-Dade Counties
- PA – Philadelphia, Harrisburg, & Norristown
- NC – Greater Rocky Mount
“The reach of this opportunity spans much further than the 2000 participants,” says James Haynes, President, and CEO of OIC of America. “This is the reunification of 2,000 families, the return of 2,000 sons and daughters, fathers, and mothers, and ultimately the return of 2,000 employed citizens back into their communities. While we are honored for this opportunity, we understand that our first commitment is to our constituents and that their needs remain central to our work.” —James Haynes, CEO & President, OIC of America.
According to the US Department of Labor “These grants support proactive and comprehensive approaches to engage justice-involved individuals seeking a second chance and a path to rewarding and sustainable careers,” said Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training John Pallasch. “Research shows early and frequent engagement prior to release from incarceration reduces the risk of recidivism, so these grants are vital to stopping the revolving door of prison from turning.”
Background – OIC of America is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization preparing people for today’s workforce with quality life skills development, fundamental education, superior job skills training, and employment readiness services. OIC of America and its network of Affiliates understand that civil and economic rights are inseparable. We encourage all citizens to exercise their right to vote for elected officials who will work to abolish inequitable laws that have been designed to leave Black and brown people behind and create new laws that provide equity across our nation.
“We will continue to work tirelessly with government, corporations, donors and our partner organizations to bring about substantive change to help those who have been historically excluded, underserved, and disenfranchised, gain the economic independence that lifts them from the restraints of poverty” said Haynes.
For more information please visit oicofamerica.org/ or contact Shonique Banks, Director of Partnerships at (215) 236-4500 x223
