From Libraries to Life-Changing Hubs: How CJF America Is Bringing the Future to the Doorsteps of Those Who Need It Most
Durham, NC – In an era where access to education, healthcare, and career opportunities is still a privilege rather than a right for many, CJF America is flipping the script. The organization, known as the powerhouse philanthropic arm of the Courtney Jordan Foundation, is making waves once again with the Cornerstone Initiative—a radical expansion designed to bring critical resources directly to communities too often left behind.
For 15 years, CJF America has been a force for change, investing millions into education, youth development, and economic mobility. Now, the organization is doubling down—moving beyond traditional charitable efforts and creating a network of centralized community hubs that fuse technology, training, mental health support, and career pipelines into one transformative ecosystem.
Rewriting the Playbook on Accessibility: Libraries That Move, Careers That Last
CJF America has already redefined what a library can be, launching Cornerstone Instinctive Libraries, a mobile initiative that provides portable internet devices, streaming services, and educational materials to individuals facing transportation barriers. Inspired by the Durham County Library System, these libraries are putting knowledge into the hands of those who need it most—whether they’re single parents working multiple jobs, students without reliable internet, or individuals simply looking for a way to grow.
But this is just the beginning. With the launch of Cornerstone Hubs, CJF America is taking everything they do—and putting it under one roof.
More Than a Resource Center—A Launchpad for a Better Future
The new Cornerstone Hubs aren’t just community centers; they are powerhouses of opportunity. Designed to meet people where they are, each hub will offer:
Mobile Healthcare Vans – Providing on-the-go medical services, bridging the gap for those without access to proper healthcare.
Durham Youth Alliance (DYA) Cultural Excursions – Giving youth life-changing opportunities to explore the world beyond their neighborhoods.
Code School & Workforce Development – Training individuals for high-paying tech jobs and placing them in direct employment pipelines.
Mental Health & Career Transition Support – Offering therapy, coaching, and mentorship to help individuals adapt to new career environments and corporate spaces.
Speaking Series & Symposiums – Featuring top-tier industry leaders, game-changers, and thought leaders to equip, inspire, and mobilize the next generation of leaders.
Investing in Community Pride: When Space Transforms Lives
CJF America isn’t stopping at education and workforce development—they’re investing in the physical spaces where communities gather.
Recently, the organization donated a fully equipped community room to an affordable housing complex—a game-changer for families in the area. The space, built to cultivate pride and engagement, includes:
- Gaming stations & arcade entertainment
- A 65” Smart TV with streaming services
- Comfortable, high-end furnishings to create a sense of home
“These aren’t just buildings or programs. This is about dignity. This is about hope. This is about giving people a chance to break cycles and build real futures,” said Kristen Picot, President of CJF America.
A Movement, Not Just a Mission
CJF America isn’t interested in band-aid solutions. This is about long-term transformation. By consolidating services, eliminating transportation barriers, and providing direct pipelines to success, the organization is proving that real change isn’t just possible—it’s already happening.
As CJF America scales its efforts, it calls on partners, policymakers, and local leaders to join the movement.
The future is being built—one community at a time. Will you be part of it?
For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or to learn how you can support CJF America’s work, visit www.cjfamerica.org.
ABOUT CJF AMERICA
CJF America is the U.S. division of the Courtney Jordan Foundation, a global philanthropic powerhouse dedicated to breaking barriers in education, workforce development, and community empowerment. With a 15-year legacy of impact, CJF America is committed to creating real, lasting change for the communities that need it most.
MEDIA CONTACT
Reagan Cartwright
Director of External Communications
CJF America, Inc.
Email: rcartwrigh@cjfamerica.org
Phone: +1 919-808-5723
General Inquiries: info@cjfamerica.org