At OIC, We Believe in Literacy

At OIC, we believe literacy is more than just reading and writing—it's about dignity, opportunity, and community. When adults gain literacy skills, they gain confidence, better job prospects, and the ability to support their families in new ways. Most importantly, they inspire their children, breaking the cycle of low literacy for future generations.

But the impact doesn't stop there. Literate parents are more engaged in their children’s education, helping them succeed in school and beyond. Studies show that children of literate parents are far more likely to develop strong literacy skills themselves, setting the stage for a brighter future for generations to come.

This call to action to champion the cause of adult literacy impacts entire communities. When adults struggle with literacy, workforce shortages grow, healthcare costs rise, and civic engagement declines. By investing in adult literacy, we strengthen our workforce, build stronger families, and create more vibrant, thriving communities.

The impact of adult literacy reaches all of us. Stronger readers mean stronger communities—more engaged parents, a more skilled workforce, and a brighter future for everyone. That’s why I’m asking you to join us in making a difference.

Your support can open doors for those working hard to improve their lives. Every dollar invested in adult literacy fuels change that ripples across families and neighborhoods. Let’s build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. Donate today and be part of this transformation.

Sprouts: Student Spotlight – Kendrick Marshall

When Kendrick Marshall walked through the doors of OIC, he carried more than just a desire to succeed—he carried the weight of being labeled and dismissed by traditional systems that failed to see his worth.

But OIC saw something else. We saw potential. And we took the time to help him uncover his gifts.

Kendrick graduated from OIC in Fall 2023 and is now thriving in an electrical apprenticeship program at Metro Tech. He is pursuing his journeyman license with Reid Electric. Thanks to funding from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation workforce scholarship, OIC awarded him a scholarship to continue to grow his skills and build a future he once thought was out of reach!

What makes Kendrick’s story even more powerful is that he returns often to visit current students. He’s more than an alum—he’s a witness to what’s possible. His presence affirms that with support, structure, and belief, lives can be transformed.

Kendrick is one of over 45,000 students served through OIC’s educational initiatives, and his success is a shining example of what it means to invest in people, not just programs.

In Memorium: A Life Well Planted

Honoring Lillie Buckner

In every flourishing garden, there are roots that run deep—quietly nurturing growth, stability, and strength over time. For OIC, one of those roots was Ms. Lillie Buckner.

Ms. Lillie was among the very first employees when OIC began in 1966, and for nearly six decades, she never stopped showing up. Whether behind the scenes or front and center, she was a steadfast supporter, a familiar smile, and a guiding presence.

She joined us at our Friends and Family Day on March 18th—an event designed to bring generations together inside the OIC community she helped build. At 83, she eagerly participated in every activity and even won the scavenger hunt, reminding us all that engagement and joy know no age—just days before her peaceful passing on March 22nd.

Ms. Lillie leaves behind a powerful legacy—not just through her family and church, but within the very foundation of OIC. She was a lifer, a constant. The kind of person whose presence quietly shaped the mission simply by showing up, volunteering, and giving in whatever ways she could.

Let her life be our reminder: Support comes in many forms. No act of presence is too small to make a lasting impact. We invite you to honor Ms. Lillie by continuing what she embodied—show up, volunteer, be present, and give! Because just like Ms. Lillie, you never know the difference your roots might make in helping something grow.

She will forever remain a part of the OIC family.
A bloom remembered, and a root we’ll never forget.