History

Discovery Programs started as one of hundreds of programs in the U.S. funded by federal legislation to help displaced homemaker and single parents learn job skills. It is one of many similar programs at Oregon community colleges. Discovery Programs began at Rogue Community College’s Redwood Campus in 1985 with the Moving On program, originally called Training Resources for Women. In 1986 Bright Futures, a program of classes similar to Moving On was created on the RCC Riverside Campus in Medford. Discovery Programs is supported with a combination of public and private funds.

Discovery Programs has consistently received excellent recommendations from students, faculty and community agencies. A large percentage of program students complete at least one full year of college after Moving On or Bright Futures. Many report that they have improved their communication, study and computer skills as well as developing confidence and self esteem. Students also learn leadership skills and volunteer on campus and within the local community. Discovery Programs students have won numerous scholarships and awards from a variety of organizations such as Soroptomist International, the American Association of University Women, and the Rogue Community College Foundation.