CJF America is a branch of the Courtney Jordan Foundation, eponymously named for its founder, Black billionaire philanthropist Courtney Jordan. The foundation’s American operations, driven by innovative thinking, aim to “bring the village back” and foster progress within underserved communities. CJF America’s leadership and program co-founders are at the forefront of this charge, working tirelessly to empower and uplift those they serve.
While CJF America’s leadership, Rhoda Hornmenoo, Nick Gallardo, and Kristen Picot are out of town delivering supplies to those impacted by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, their team is hard at work pushing forward with the bold vision behind CJF America’s Cornerstone Project known as Cornerstone America, is a game-changing initiative designed to uplift underserved communities through technology, music, and workforce development.
The Source Magazine recently sat down with Reagan Cartwright, CJF America’s Director of Communications, who spoke passionately about the project and the leadership driving it. Rosie Alvarez, VP of Digital Transformation at Neyius Corporation, also joined us via Zoom to share how their partnership is helping make this vision a reality.
At the heart of CJF America’s new initiative is the creation of smart community centers; spaces that combine cutting-edge technology, creative arts, and essential services like coding schools, mobile healthcare, and youth development programs. The centers are designed to address the specific needs of rural and economically depressed communities, offering resources that are often out of reach for residents in these areas.
“We are creating holistic spaces that not only teach skills but also offer opportunities for personal and professional growth,” Cartwright explains. “By combining tech education with music production, we’re preparing individuals for careers in industries that are growing rapidly; while also offering a creative outlet for expression. These centers are about building an inclusive future, one where access to opportunity is available for everyone.”
The initiative is anchored in CJF America’s longstanding mission to provide equitable access to education, healthcare, and the arts. And while the trio of Kristen, Nick, and Rhoda were not available for interviews, their vision continues to guide the direction of the project. Cartwright shared that, “Kristen is particularly excited about integrating music into these centers because it offers youth an opportunity to engage with their creativity while also building skills that translate into real-world careers.”
The smart community centers won’t just be classrooms; they’ll be incubators for the next generation of creative professionals. Music programming is a key component, providing aspiring artists and producers with access to state-of-the-art studios where they can hone their craft. Cartwright underscores the importance of this creative space: “Music isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a gateway to new opportunities. By offering high-quality music studios, we’re giving individuals the resources they need to break into industries that are experiencing explosive growth, like music production and media.”
Additionally, the coding programs will equip participants with highly marketable skills in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. These programs are designed to help individuals of all ages access well-paying, stable jobs in the rapidly expanding tech industry.
“We know that there’s a massive gap in the workforce, especially in rural areas,” says Cartwright. “By offering these training programs, we are giving people the skills to not only find jobs but to build careers that will provide them with long-term stability.”
A major factor in the success of the Cornerstone Project is the support of Neyius Corporation, which has made a substantial commitment to fund the initiative. Through its subsidiary, Neyius Media LLC, the company is providing the financial backing necessary to create high-quality music and digital education programs within the centers.
On a Zoom call with Rosie Alvarez, VP of Digital Transformation at Neyius, it was clear that this partnership is rooted in a shared vision for transformation. “Our work with CJF America is driven by a belief in the power of technology and the arts to break down barriers and provide access to new opportunities,” says Alvarez. “We’re excited to be part of this journey, supporting the development of spaces where young people and adults can come together, learn, and discover their potential in industries that are shaping the future.”
While the founders of CJF America were unavailable for direct interviews due to their emergency relief work, their influence is evident in every aspect of the project. Nick Gallardo, who serves as CFO, has long been an advocate for rural communities. In 2022, The Source Magazine had the opportunity to sit down with Gallardo during his run for mayor in Siler City, where he spoke passionately about the need for increased opportunities in economically underserved areas.
Back then, Gallardo highlighted the challenges facing rural youth, particularly their limited access to career-building resources. “It’s all about giving people the chance to explore their passions,” Gallardo had told us at the time. “Whether that’s in coding, music, or the arts, we need spaces where people can learn, grow, and pursue careers that align with their talents.”
In his role at CJF America, Gallardo is focused on the financial sustainability of the project, ensuring that the smart centers are able to serve communities for years to come. His dedication to improving the lives of underserved populations continues to be a driving force behind the organization’s work.
Kristen Picot, CJF America’s president, is equally committed to ensuring that the smart centers become hubs for opportunity. Cartwright shared that Picot’s passion for creativity and innovation is what inspired the incorporation of music programming into the centers. “Kristen believes that creativity fuels progress,” Cartwright says. “By providing space for both tech training and music education, she wants to create environments where people can explore their potential in diverse ways.”
And, of course, Rhoda Hornmenoo, Vice President of Special Programs, has been instrumental in shaping the cultural and social elements of the initiative. Known for her focus on community engagement and mental health, Hornmenoo believes strongly in the therapeutic power of music. “We know that music isn’t just a way to engage; it’s a way to heal and inspire,” Cartwright says, reflecting Hornmenoo’s deep commitment to fostering emotional well-being through creative expression.
With the continued support of Neyius Corporation and the leadership of Gallardo, Picot, and Hornmenoo, CJF America’s Cornerstone Project is poised to have a lasting impact on the communities it serves. The smart centers will not only offer educational resources but will also act as beacons of hope, proving that, with the right support, communities in rural America can thrive.
As Cartwright says, “This is about providing people with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Whether it’s learning how to code or producing music, we are giving people the opportunity to take control of their futures.”
For more information about CJF America and the Cornerstone Project, visit cjfamerica.org.
Photo supplied by Reagan Cartwright, Director of Communications, CJF America
