MonmouthCares Announces Community Resource Development Fund Awardees

MonmouthCares is proud to announce that our FY27 Community Resource Development funds have been awarded to Navicore’s Pathways to Financial Independence Program and the Champions of Life Program run by NJ Give a Kid a Dream. Both programs will receive $33,848.50 for programming beginning July 1st, 2026, through June 30th, 2027.

Pathways to Financial Independence

Pathways to Financial Independence will support services for 60 youth, ages 16-21, experiencing substance use challenges, homelessness, housing instability, or family disruption-populations that often face adult responsibilities without adequate financial preparation. As highlighted in the proposal, “Without foundational financial skills, these youth are at heightened risk for ongoing housing insecurity, relapse, predatory lending, debt accumulation, and disengagement from education or employment.”

The program will deliver an 8-week workshop series that combines group-based financial education with individualized one-on-one financial coaching. Workshops will be hosted at trusted community partner sites, including New Hope Addiction Recovery, InterFaith Neighbors, and HABcore, ensuring accessibility and reducing barriers to participation. Curriculum topics include budgeting, saving, credit, distinguishing wants from needs, and planning for independent living expenses. All services will be trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and provided at no cost to participants.

Champions of Life Program

The Champions of Life Program is an established, year-round initiative serving youth ages 8–18. MonmouthCares’ funding will support an additional 25 youth who would not be able to attend otherwise. The program addresses significant social, emotional, academic, and economic challenges faced by young people in communities including Long Branch, Asbury Park, Neptune, and Red Bank. Many participants experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), exposure to community violence, academic disengagement, and unstable home environments. Champions of Life fills a critical gap for youth who benefit from culturally responsive, relationship-driven support rather than traditional service models. 

Program activities take place primarily at Gleason’s Jersey Shore in Long Branch, with additional workshops and community service projects held in Neptune, Asbury Park, and Red Bank. Youth participate in three to four weekly training and mentorship sessions, monthly life-skills workshops focused on financial literacy, nutrition, conflict resolution, and leadership, and quarterly enrichment experiences such as college visits, trade school tours, and career exploration. Participants also receive ongoing case management support.