Building Pathways to Purpose & Success
Changing Oasis, Inc. (COI) is a 501(C)(3) community-based nonprofit whose mission is to empower youth and adults through education, mentorship, and accountability driven support. We create clear, achievable pathways that help individuals identify their goals, develop essential life and professional skills, and gain the confidence needed to move forward with intention. Through coaching, career development, and community engagement, Changing Oasis equips participants with the tools, mindset, and guidance needed to overcome barriers, discover purpose, and build sustainable, lasting success.
17 Years of Creating Equitable Access to Education
Our commitment to serving individuals in underserved communities by removing barriers to learning and economic mobility is unmatched. We provide GED preparation, academic support, and job skills education designed to help participants achieve foundational credentials while building confidence, stability, and self-sufficiency.
Where Potential Meets
Purpose…
COI is a trusted community anchor that brings education, empowerment, and opportunity together under one roof. For over 17 years, we have supported youth and adults throughout Chicago by delivering personalized guidance, hands on training, and meaningful community connections that lead to long term success.
Holistic Approach
We address the whole person academically, emotionally, and professionally to build confidence, resilience, and stability.
Practical & Hands-On Training
Our programs blend education with career skills, certifications, leadership development, and practical experience that connect participants to real opportunities.
Community Driven Impact
Rooted in the neighborhoods we serve, we build partnerships that strengthen families and uplift entire communities.
Changing Oasis
Programs & Services…
Our organization offers a comprehensive suite of youth development programs designed to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to successfully obtain and maintain long-term employment. Through our Urban Innovators Job Training and Development Program, participants receive hands-on workforce readiness training, career exploration, and practical skill-building aligned with today’s labor market, including professional communication, financial literacy, and work ethics. Complementing this work, our Changing Oasis Innovative Youth (COIY) Program provides a supportive and structured environment that emphasizes personal growth, leadership development, and accountability, while addressing barriers that often prevent youth from sustaining employment.
Mentorship & Youth Coaching
COI provides structured one-on-one and group mentorship designed to guide youth and young adults toward positive life outcomes. Through GED support, consistent coaching, goal setting, tutoring, and positive mindset development, participants build confidence, leadership skills, and accountability while receiving guidance from trusted mentors who support their current and future personal, educational, and professional growth.
Career, Professional & Soft Skills Development
Our career and professional skills programming equips participants with practical tools and essential soft skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Services include: career exploration, workplace readiness training, financial literacy, communication skills, and exposure to employment pathways that promote long-term stability. In addition to technical preparation, participants build critical soft skills such as: time management, teamwork, problem solving, adaptability, professionalism, and conflict resolution. Through hands-on learning, and coaching, participants develop strong work habits, positive professional attitudes, and the foundational skills necessary to secure, maintain, and grow in meaningful career opportunities.
Community-Based Outreach & Events
We also engage families and residents in need of support through community-centered outreach and events that connect individuals to essential resources, education, and support services. Through neighborhood programming, partnerships, and engagement activities, we strengthen community connections, promote collective growth, and create welcoming spaces that foster empowerment, collaboration, and lasting community impact.
For nearly two decades, we have done the REAL WORK to build community & connections that actually DELIVER!
Testimonials From Participants…
“Changing Oasis helped me get focused on my goals and believe in myself again. The mentoring and GED support I received gave me the structure, accountability, and confidence I so greatly needed.”
— J. Nelson, GED Works participant
“Through COI, I gained new sets of skills, guidance, friendships and encouragement that changed my direction. The support felt personal and helped me build stability for myself and my family. Now I can thrive.”
— K. Smith, IYIP program participant
Meet Our Founder
& Executive Director…
Audrey Woodley
Audrey Woodley is the Founder and Executive Director of Changing Oasis, Inc. (COI), a trauma-informed, community-based organization established in 2009, focused on empowering individuals and families through education, accountability, and life skills development. She is also a well-known Community Advocate, Professional Speaker, Brand Strategist, and CEO of Better Destination Media (BDM). A dedicated philanthropist on Chicago’s West Side for over 20 years, Audrey has managed a host of distinguished grant awards, including Illinois Dept of Human Services (IDHS) Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP) funding that served over 100 youth with paid employment opportunities, as well as support from the Illinois Dept of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and other funders. Collectively, she and her team have helped to change the lives of thousands of underserved youth and residents.
Take the Next Step With Changing Oasis
Whether you are a young person seeking guidance, an adult looking to strengthen your skills, a community member in need of support, or a partner interested in collaboration, there is a place for you here. Get involved by enrolling in our programs, volunteering as a mentor, or partnering with us to expand access to education and opportunity across our communities.
