INTEGRIS Health - Basic Educational Empowerment Program (BEEP)

What is it?

Students in the Basic Educational Empowerment Program (BEEP) meet at INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center to attend GED classes four days a week. They must also complete a resume, a five-year personal strategic plan, and an online financial class, as well as participate in two community service events. After completing their GED, many students take advantage of job-shadowing opportunities and enroll in a higher education institution. INTEGRIS Health helps pick up the balance of tuition and books after students complete scholarship and financial aid forms.

Who is it for?

Gang members and high school dropouts are referred to BEEP from an array of programs sponsored by the Oklahoma City District Attorney and other community leaders.

Why do they do it?

Few opportunities exist for this population to succeed in their lives. BEEP was created to help gang members become more productive citizens and attain a marketable skill when entering the workforce.

Impact

The GED program has a total enrollment of 32 students from ages 16 to 19, and the college program has 19 students between the ages of 17 and 23. In 2006, INTEGRIS Health helped 12 students attain their GED, one student complete two technology certificates, and another student earn a bachelor's degree in business.

Contact: Steve Petty
Corporate Director, Community Wellness/Diversity
Telephone: 405-717-9874
E-mail: steve.petty@integrisok.com