On Tuesday June 17, OIC Philadelphia brought together community leaders and partners to celebrate the power of unity in driving meaningful change. This year, our united efforts expanded our reach across the community, helping hundreds of individuals gain employment, develop crucial skills, and achieve economic independence through collaborative partnerships. . Notable attendees included Senator Sharif Street, Councilwoman Dr. Nina Ahmad, and Councilman Anthony Phillips, demonstrating strong governmental support for our mission. This year, our united efforts expanded our reach across the community, helping hundreds of individuals gain employment, develop crucial skills, and achieve economic independence through collaborative partnerships.
Event Highlights
CEO Sheila Ireland opened with welcome remarks emphasizing how unity strengthens our mission, followed by our Year in Review showcasing OIC Philadelphia's collective achievements. The program featured three impactful panel discussions demonstrating the power of unified action:
Local Impact: Sullivan District Collective Action United community leaders discussed how collaborative efforts create transformative change in Philadelphia neighborhoods, featuring Portia Fullard (Leon H. Charitable Trust), Mable Welborn (Trust Board Chair), Mike Majors (Called To Serve CDC), and Daryl Debrest (Progress Trust Investments).
Statewide Impact: Keystone Green Jobs Training Program Moderated by Ayanna Washington, Executive Directors Iva Ferrell (OIC Montgomery County), Christina Johnson (OIC Tri-County), and Javonna Wylie (OIC Chester County) demonstrated how unified OIC centers across Pennsylvania amplify our collective impact.
Global Impact: Building Sustainable Futures Ron Howard, Retired COO of OIC International, presented on the power of international unity, highlighting our transformative partnership with OIC Cameroon and global collaboration.
The event concluded with a special tribute honoring Robert Nelson's 30+ year legacy with OIC Philadelphia.
Thank you to all attendees and partners who demonstrated the power of unity at this event. Together, we continue creating lasting change in Philadelphia and beyond through our shared commitment to economic empowerment.
