Program: Arizona Opportunities Industrialization Center, Phoenix, AZ Contact(s): Gene Blue, President and CEO: (602) 254-5081 Purpose: To increase the education and economic opportunities of low-income Phoenix area residents by providing various skills training and education programs Background Program Operations Outcomes Background The Arizona Opportunities Industrial Center (Phoenix OIC) was founded in April 1967 as a private, nonprofit community-based organization designed to address the critical employability needs of Phoenix's economically disadvantaged and ethnic minority citizens. The Phoenix OIC is an affiliate of the OICs of America and works collaboratively with other community-based organizations to ensure the social and economic viability of disadvantaged individuals in the Phoenix area. Program Operations Over the past 28 years, Phoenix OIC has operated a variety of programs, including employment training, alternative education systems and community economic development with both youth and adults. Clients are also provided with several educational programs such as: Basic Education, English As a Second Language and GED preparation courses. Phoenix OIC also provides programs including graphic arts, banking, cashiering, word processing, principals of accounting and other vocational-training opportunities. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments Since 1967, Phoenix OIC has served more than 30,000 people and placed more than 18,300 in meaningful jobs. Statistics show that approximately 45 percent of the trainees were welfare recipients prior to their enrollment, and the average salary earned at placement after Phoenix OIC training is about 50 percent higher than at the time of enrollment. The center has received many awards for its outstanding work, including two in 1997: the City of Phoenix Private Industry Council and the City of Phoenix, Human Services Department, Employment and Training Division.