Building Bridges for Change: How CJF America’s Mission Aligns with Local Housing Advocates
At CJF America, our mission is clear: to empower communities through sustainable, local solutions that tackle poverty, support education, and strengthen economic mobility. We believe that impactful change happens when organizations, leaders, and advocates come together with a shared vision. Recently, we were inspired by a housing advocate in North Carolina who embodies this mission in her work every day. Her story reflects the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven action that can transform entire communities.
“A Commitment to Housing and Community Empowerment” – Kristen Picot, President, CJF America, Inc.
North Carolina faces critical challenges in affordable housing and community support. According to research by North Carolina State University, more than 1 in 6 households in the state are severely cost-burdened, meaning they spend over half of their income on housing alone. This burden impacts access to essential needs, from food to education, and highlights the urgency for accessible housing solutions. Local advocates are stepping up to address these challenges head-on, championing holistic, community-driven approaches to support vulnerable populations.
In some North Carolina communities, housing advocates have spearheaded transformative programs like affordable housing initiatives, permanent support for individuals facing homelessness, and mentorship networks. These programs are designed not only to provide shelter but to foster empowerment and economic mobility. Their leaders demonstrate a commitment to housing solutions that support growth, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
In North Carolina, studies by Duke University show that educational gaps and limited job training contribute significantly to poverty cycles, especially in underserved areas. At CJF America, we are committed to breaking down these barriers through comprehensive community programs. We’re particularly excited about our alignment with local advocates who have shown a deep commitment to workforce readiness and economic mobility through job training, mentorship, and youth support programs.
Our recent initiative in Roxboro, North Carolina—the Mayfield Ragland Center—serves as a shining example. With a dedicated space featuring a computer lab, a reading room, gaming areas, and mentorship support, the center is a safe, welcoming environment where young people can learn, explore, and grow. It is also a place where job training, STEM education, and community health resources come together to support residents holistically. These services aim to address the specific needs of low-income families, including single-parent households, to create meaningful, lasting change.
The data is clear: comprehensive support programs that address housing, job training, and education are effective in reducing poverty. In fact, North Carolina State University’s research has shown that communities with access to affordable housing and job training experience higher levels of economic resilience and lower rates of homelessness over time. We are encouraged to see this research come to life through the efforts of local housing leaders who believe in the power of tailored, community-led solutions.
“Empowering Through Adaptability and Purpose” – Nick Gallardo, CFO, CJF America, Inc.
A key aspect of the housing advocate we admire is her belief in the “power of the pivot”—the ability to adapt to new challenges, view obstacles as opportunities, and continually seek innovative solutions. This adaptability is crucial, especially in an era where economic pressures and housing shortages require flexible, forward-thinking responses. At CJF America, we see this same spirit in our work, where we embrace challenges as chances to make our programs even more impactful.
Health, education, and economic stability are all interconnected, and CJF America’s centers are designed with these essential supports in mind. As studies by Duke University and NC State reveal, access to services like health care, childcare, and education can significantly enhance stability and upward mobility for low-income families. By focusing on these core areas, CJF America aims to support the whole person, not just address immediate needs. And it’s clear that the housing leaders we admire share this approach, recognizing that sustainable support leads to long-term resilience.
“Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Partnership and Shared Purpose” – Rhoda Hormenoo, AVP of Special Programs + Executive Director, Cornerstone America
We at CJF America are inspired to partner with the housing advocates who continue to make a difference in North Carolina’s communities. Our hope is that, together, we can bring more spaces like the Mayfield Ragland Center to life—spaces where learning, empowerment, and a sense of belonging flourish. For us, this means working with local leaders who know their communities’ needs best and can help guide us toward solutions that resonate on a personal and collective level.
We remain dedicated to “bringing the village back”—to rebuilding social support networks, encouraging collaboration, and providing safe spaces for growth. With local leaders by our side, we’re ready to bring transformative solutions to more North Carolina neighborhoods, one step at a time.
As we continue on this journey, we’re grateful for every advocate who shares our vision of a stronger, more equitable future. Join us as we work to create pathways of hope, resilience, and opportunity for generations to come.