Cornerstone Center for Early Learning: Building a Sustainable Future with YouthBridge
Cornerstone – YouthBridge’s Newest Endowment Client
For over 55 years, Cornerstone Center for Early Learning has been lighting a spark in young minds and opening doors for families. But how does an organization keep this flame burning brightly for generations to come? By teaming up with YouthBridge Community Foundation of Greater St. Louis and launching a YouthBridge Endowment Fund, Cornerstone ensures resources for day-to-day needs, creative programs, unforeseen challenges, and visionary projects. With YouthBridge in their corner, organizations do not simply get technical advice; they unlock new possibilities for growth and impact, from investment strategies to financial reporting and outreach.
Mission Alignment: Cornerstone and YouthBridge
Cornerstone’s mission centers around nurturing children and uplifting families with integrity and openness—values that resonate deeply with YouthBridge. With acclaimed accreditations and a curriculum endorsed by experts, it is easy to see why Cornerstone stands out as a repeat recipient of YouthBridge-administered Gateway Children’s Charity grants.
Comprehensive Services and Dedicated Staff
Cornerstone offers more than childcare—it is a lifeline for families, providing year-round education, nourishing meals, snacks, diapers, baby food, health screenings, and tailored therapies. Their diverse community thrives thanks to faculty and staff who are passionate about guiding, encouraging, teaching and loving every child. With 30% of staff boasting over a decade of service, and some up to 30 years, Cornerstone truly sets the gold standard for dedication.
Against All Odds: Inspiring Success Stories
Every day, Executive Director Karen Lucy observes miracles. One story shines especially bright: a foster child arrived with complex medical and developmental hurdles. At Cornerstone, he soon flourished. Doctors said he would not walk until age three, but at 20 months he was running—not walking! He astonished his family who credits his remarkable growth to the teachers who recognized his potential and provided the stimulation and challenges he needed. Today, he is Cornerstone’s unofficial “Ambassador,” greeting every child with boundless enthusiasm.
Focus on Sustainability
When Karen joined Cornerstone, her challenge on day two was announcing a COVID shutdown. She turned adversity into opportunity, meticulously inspecting every facet of the center and championing a vision for long-term sustainability. As Karen put it, “Cornerstone had been operating for 50 years, and I wanted to plan for 50 more.” She rallied the Board, researched partners, and worked on securing the vital funds. The team chose to do things right rather than fast, but in three or four years, Cornerstone proudly became YouthBridge’s newest endowment client.
Why YouthBridge?
Cornerstone did not choose YouthBridge lightly. Karen and her team conducted a thorough search, weighing every factor before deciding YouthBridge was the perfect fit. Karen describes their partnership as a springboard for deeper knowledge and creative solutions, saying, “Cornerstone will gain additional knowledge about enhancing our investment, and direction in ways we have not even thought of.”
Is Your Organization Ready for Sustainability Measures?
Does Cornerstone’s story inspire your organization? Reach out to Allison McDonald, YouthBridge Grants Manager. If you are interested in joining the YouthBridge family or want to explore your charitable giving options, connect with Andranique Joe, YouthBridge Director of Philanthropy.