Reverend Dr. Leon Sullivan's founding of OIC Philadelphia in 1964 sparked an international movement centered on empowering communities through economic opportunities and training. What began as one man's vision for social justice and self-sufficiency in North Philadelphia blossomed into the global OIC network, with OIC Philadelphia standing today as the flagship institution 60 years later. Sullivan embodied the intersection of civil rights, faith-based activism, and equipping individuals with skills for economic mobility.
A Year of Growth — Laying the Foundation for Success
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Annual reports provide important reflection points for organizations and as I reflect on my first 18+ months as President and CEO of OIC Philadelphia, I am happy with the progress we have made and filled with optimism for our future. Our organization has experienced significant growth, expanding our programs from 4 to 14 and increasing our applicants from 895 in 2023 to more than 5,150 in 2024—an astounding 475%+ increase. This tells me that the need for connection between people seeking opportunities and organizations seeking talent is stronger than ever. That need will only increase as we prepare for major international events in 2026, including the Semiquincentennial, FIFA World Cup Club, MLB All-Star Game, and more.
These events represent a clear opportunity to move the dime on poverty in Philadelphia. Here at OIC Philadelphia we have ambitious plans to answer the call that these opportunities represent, which you will read about in this report. Innovation, collaboration and leveling the playing field for the people that we serve is nothing new to OIC Philadelphia. Our organization’s rich history dates back to 1964, when it was founded by the renowned civil rights leader and social activist, Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan. The origin is deeply rooted in addressing the profound disparities faced by African Americans and underserved communities in Philadelphia during the Civil Rights Era. Dr. Sullivan recognized the urgent need for collective action to level the playing field for economic empowerment.
His unwavering belief in self-help, resource development, and skills training led to the founding of OIC Philadelphia. He famously asserted that "integration without preparation leads to frustration, " emphasizing the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to seize new opportunities. Our approach includes professional and vocational skill development, job readiness training, and placement services, empowering individuals to gain employment, advance their careers, and achieve financial independence. Perhaps more importantly, we’re deeply focused on helping people build the lives of their choosing, igniting that spark of greatness that allows them to take hold of the American dream – opportunity for all. This approach has transformed lives and built stronger, more resilient and inclusive communities.
"I believe that, as we continue our work in this upcoming year, we must remember that, collectively, we hold the power. The power to change outdated systems, hold ourselves accountable, and create the future we envision.
Friends, family, and supporters, I hope you’ll join us on this journey."
Sheila Ireland
CEO & President
Success Starts with OIC Philadelphia
%
Job Placement Within 90 Days
00
+
People Trained Yearly
+
Lives Transformed, Since 1964
Celebrating 60 Years of Impact
OIC Philadelphia marked a major milestone by commemorating our 60th anniversary at the "Beacon on Broad Street" Gala. With 60+ corporate, foundation and nonprofit partners sponsoring the evening, the OIC Philadelphia’s 60th Anniversary rekindled hope and excitement in our city.
"Few organizations in Philadelphia have the legacy, impact, and leadership of OIC Philadelphia. With a renewed sense of optimism sweeping the city, OIC Philadelphia will be one of the driving forces as the Greater Delaware Valley builds our workforce to take advantage of the opportunities that will present themselves in the years to come."
Kenyatta Johnson
Council President
Inaugural Alumni Block Party
600 alumni spanning 59 years of OIC Philadelphia history gathered in unity and pride to celebrate our legacy and envision our future at our Inaugural Alumni Block Party. Distinguished guests included Philadelphia's first female black mayoral candidate, Cherelle Parker; Congressman Dwight Evans; and Senator Sharif Street.
Compared to FY 2023-24
Organizational Growth
250
%
10 New Programs Launched
98
%
876 Participants Served
475
%
5,150 Applicants
86
%
Placement Rate
Who We Serve
OIC Philadelphia is located in the 19122 zip code and focuses on serving its six surrounding zip codes: 19121, 19123, 19125, 19130, 19132, and 19133, however, we do accept applicants from all over Philadelphia. These communities are characterized by high poverty levels, elevated crime rates, low educational attainment, and high incarceration rates.
According to the Lenfest North Philadelphia Workforce Initiative, the region has a 43% unemployment rate, a median household income of $25,000, and a significant number of residents with incarceration records.
"OIC Philadelphia serves as a linchpin in our city's workforce development landscape, and this investment is pivotal to advancing access to Economic Opportunity for All, ” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "Investing in OIC Philadelphia's healthcare training programs underscores my commitment to bridging economic disparities and creating innovative pathways to jobs and careers that benefit local workers."
Mayor
Cherelle Parker
Cultivating Food Entrepreneurs
Kristol Bryant
CHOPPED Champion Host, City Eats TV
Since joining OIC Philadelphia in 1999, Kristol Bryant, a Philadelphia native, pursued her culinary dreams with zeal. Graduating at the top of her class, she impressed at the "Book and the Cook" Rising Star event and earned externships at Philippe on Locust and the Park Hyatt at the Bellevue. Rising to Executive Chef at The Sonesta Hotel, she was named "Top Chef of Philadelphia 2016" by Thrillist Magazine. A CHOPPED Champion, Kristol now hosts City Eats TV, solidifying her status as a culinary trailblazer.
Ernesto Venturo
Founder, La Ingrata Restaurant
Ernesto, a passionate cook from South Jersey, sought to elevate his culinary skills but found the Art Institute's tuition too high. Instead, he enrolled in OIC Philadelphia's culinary program. After graduating, Ernesto worked at Osteria and then at Sampan, where he met his wife, Karla. On April 1, 2022, they opened La Ingrata Restaurant in Camden, New Jersey. Since then, they have received significant recognition, including a write-up in the Philadelphia Inquirer by Craig LaBan.
Darlene Jones
Founder, Star Fusion Express Restaurant
Chef Darlene Jones is the visionary Founder and CEO of Star Fusion Express Restaurants, a pioneering culinary empire in West Philadelphia. Overcoming early life challenges, Darlene achieved her GED through OIC Philadelphia in 2001, which propelled her towards her culinary dreams. Renowned for her unique fusion of global flavors, Darlene's dedication to sustainable sourcing and community empowerment has garnered her numerous accolades, making Star Fusion a beacon of innovation and social responsibility.
Celebrating Our Future Workforce
OIC Philadelphia proudly celebrated the accomplishments of over 100 graduates at the prestigious PECO’s Energy Hall, our long-term partner. This momentous occasion marked the culmination of our latest workforce training programs, where each graduate received a well-earned certificate of completion, signifying their dedication, hard work, and resilience.
Generational Impact
The Parler & Jenkins Family: A Story of Generational Impact
The Parler & Jenkins family story highlights the profound, multi- generational impact of OIC Philadelphia. From Eboney's career success to her daughter Summer's professional growth, OIC Philadelphia has been a catalyst for their achievements. Their journey underscores our mission to provide equitable education and training, enabling individuals and families to overcome barriers and reach their full potential, striving for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Eboney Parler, now an Engineer at Comcast, began her transformative journey with OIC Philadelphia in 1998. Referred by a friend, she honed her skills in front desk operations and secured her first job at the Four Seasons Hotel in 1999. Over eleven years, she excelled in communications, reservations, and sales, eventually becoming a trainer. Joining Comcast in 2018 as a contractor and becoming full time in 2019, Eboney now works with software and hardware applications and recently achieved scrum certification, aspiring to become a Scrum Master. She enjoys the benefits of a 401k, pension, and comprehensive benefits package.
Eboney Parler, Engineer at Comcast Summer Jenkins, Digital Media Intern for Councilmember Jeffery Young
Summer Jenkins: Following in Her Mother's Footsteps
Summer Jenkins' journey highlights the generational impact of OIC Philadelphia. Passionate about video production, she missed her initial goal of attending film school but found a new path through OIC Philadelphia, creating an OIC commercial. Through the program, she learned to believe in her ideas and found her voice, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Now, as a Digital Media Intern for Councilmember Jeffrey Young, she strategizes content, updates media lists, and enjoys photographing City Council events.
"OIC Philadelphia has been an invaluable partner to the Philadelphia community. Thanks to their program, Summer Jenkins has become an essential member of my Communications team. She learned to believe in her ideas and find her voice, fostering a sense of community. Now, she strategizes digital content, updates media lists, and enjoys photographing City Council events. Summer’s journey shows the power of her tenacity, community support, and mentorship."
Jeffery Young
Councilman
Advancing Healthcare Careers at OIC Philadelphia
We are proud to celebrate the achievements of the first cohorts of our Clinical Medical Assisting and Administrative Medical Assisting students. These students have completed their programs and are now gaining valuable experience through externships or have already secured placements in the healthcare field.
Program Achievements and Growth
What began as a summer phlebotomy course has rapidly expanded into one of the most sought-after sectors at OIC Philadelphia. Thanks to the generous support of Congressman Brendan F. Boyle, who granted his first federal earmark of $575,000 to OIC Philadelphia, we have successfully launched our Clinical Medical Assisting (CMA) and Administrative Medical Assisting (AMA) programs. This funding has enabled us to create a comprehensive healthcare career pathways, providing career ladder opportunities for growth.
"Advocating for federal funding for healthcare employee training is essential to promoting equity and providing individuals with the necessary job skills to succeed in the workforce. OIC has proven time and again that by investing in comprehensive training programs, we ensure that healthcare workers, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to develop the expertise required to deliver high-quality care and improve health outcomes in their communities."
ONE fights for a more just world by demanding the investments needed to create economic opportunities and healthier lives in Africa.
our vision
AFRICA AS AN EQUAL GLOBAL PLAYER We envision a world where Africa is an equal player, where people across Africa have access to abundant economic opportunities and lead thriving, healthy lives. We strive to empower all people to use their voices to build a more just world, because none of us are equal until all of us are equal.
our legacy
FROM MOBILIZATION TO PARTNERSHIP Since 2004, ONE has evolved from mobilizing millions against extreme poverty to championing Africa as a continent of solutions—not just challenges. African nations hold the keys to tackling many global issues, from economic resilience to climate adaptation. Africa's success is our shared success.
The Power Of Our Approach
For 20 years, ONE has delivered measurable progress through a distinctive advocacy model that combines clarity, connectivity, credibility, and creativity to achieve unparalleled impact. This unique combination of four core strengths has consistently delivered results.
Our Commitment to Africa's Future With unwavering determination, ONE stands in alongside Africa as partners with a shared vision where African innovation, leadership, and solutions drive progress.
We champion both immediate investments and systemic changes that create a world where everyone has the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.
clarity
Translating complex data into actionable policy
Potential
Bringing diverse insights into political strategy
Credibility
Creating pathways for authentic African voices
Creativity
Deploying citizen activism that creates momentum
20 Years of Impact
From grassroots activism to global policy reform, ONE's two decades of advocacy have helped create measurable change where it matters most.
THE ONE DIFFERENCE Our success stems from our unique approach: data-driven advocacy paired with Africa-led solutions. From fighting to secure the African Union a permanent G20 seat to building accountability systems, we are creating an ecosystem where policy tangibly transforms lives.
$1.02 trillion
more financing for our issues since ONE's founding
$114 billion
to help African countries weather economic, health, and climate shocks
$72 billion
for life-saving vaccines & healthcare through Gavi & the Global Fund
50 million lives
saved through our healthcare advocacy efforts
$110 billion
in debt relief secured for vulnerable countries
Honoring a Legacy of Activism: Bono's Presidential Medal of Freedom
The highlight of our anniversary year came with the extraordinary recognition of ONE co-founder Bono, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest civilian honor in the United States. Presented by President Joe Biden, this prestigious award celebrated Bono's relentless activism against AIDS and poverty, as well as his pivotal role in spearheading the creation of PEPFAR, a bipartisan initiative that has saved 26 million lives.
This prestigious honor symbolized the transformation of our founding vision into measurable change for millionsand our continued determination to drive progress for decades to come.
Driving Health Equity Forward at the World Health Summit
At the World Health Summit, we led critical discussions on funding for global health crises, culminating in our anniversary celebration at the historic Telegraphenamt where leaders from politics, civil society, and the African diaspora united around ensuring African voices lead the global fight for health equity. Our research, which revealed a 13-year low in health development funding, became a rallying cry for action.
2024 Milestone
A New Approach to Fairer Finance
Our global financial systems are overdue for transformation. ONE is helping shape reforms that challenge inequality, empower African leadership, and unlock the financial resources needed for long-term prosperity.
AFRICA AS AN EQUAL GLOBAL PLAYER We envision a world where Africa is an equal player, where people across Africa have access to abundant economic opportunities and lead thriving, healthy lives. We strive to empower all people to use their voices to build a more just world, because none of us are equal until all of us are equal.
"The record $100 billion replenishment was only possible through the combined efforts of donor, client. and leading civil society partners like ONE Campaign."
- THE WORLD BANK
FROM MOBILIZATION TO PARTNERSHIP Since 2004, ONE has evolved from mobilizing millions against extreme poverty to championing Africa as a continent of solutions—not just challenges. African nations hold the keys to tackling many global issues, from economic resilience to climate adaptation. Africa's success is our shared success.
