Programs

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Unlocking American Potential

Gordon Philanthropies believes in developing young minds as the catalyst for personal and national success. Through nationwide partnerships with educators, universities, and organizations, we promote practical programs to advance reading, writing, and counting — the key to unlocking talent, strengthening the workforce, and advancing the American dream.

Teachers & Books

Our Teachers and Books Program promotes reading in school and at home. The program provides eight free books during the school year to all students in our affiliate schools. We partner with teachers and parents to select the best titles and read with the children. We seek to improve literacy and expand home libraries as the students keep the books.

Children's Libraries

Parental incarceration impacts all family members, in particular children. We provide visiting room libraries across the County of Los Angeles and California correctional facilities. These libraries encourage parent-children interaction during periods of great stress and ultimately promote positive and responsible relationships.

Sent with Love

In partnership with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, incarcerated parents record themselves reading a children’s book; the audio recording, book, and a handwritten note reach home for birthdays or holidays. Ongoing research tracks participant outcomes and child development.

Kids & Books

Kids & Books is a heartfelt literacy initiative designed to bring comfort, connection, and the magic of storytelling to children experiencing extended hospital stays. These books provide comfort and promote family engagement during treatment and serve as lasting additions to home libraries.

Pitzer College Inside-Outside Program

We provide funding support and assistance to the outstanding program run by Pitzer College to provide incarcerated individuals with post-secondary education courses and the opportunity to earn degrees. Students enrolled at Pitzer College take classes inside the correctional facilities alongside inmates. Impressive results have included college graduates, full-time employment, and a Fulbright Scholarship recipient.

Georgetown University Prisons and Justice Initiative

We provide funding and support to the prison education classes taught by Georgetown University faculty at correctional facilities as well as re-entry and employment programs for former inmates.

Latest News

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Gordon Philanthropies and Community Leaders Mark the Opening of the Children’s Center Serving Fire Camp Families

The program supports women participating in Malibu Conservation Camp initiative while strengthening family connections Gordon Philanthropies and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) this week celebrated the grand opening of the Malibu Conservation Camp Outdoor Educational Center, a safe and welcoming space for incarcerated women firefighters to connect with their children. […]

Gordon Philanthropies Donates $100,000 to Bring Holiday Relief and Community Support to Underserved Schools Across Los Angeles County

The donation delivered a significant boost to schools to support students and families facing escalating economic hardship. Just days before the holidays, Gordon Philanthropies is delivering a significant boost to schools across Los Angeles County with a $100,000 donation to support students and families facing escalating economic hardship. The funds will allow schools […]

Gordon Philanthropies Brings a Kids’ Comfort Corner to an Unlikely Place: LAPD Southeast Community Police Station

Transforming an LAPD station into a place where vulnerable children can find comfort, books, and a moment of calm. Gordon Philanthropies, in partnership with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), is proud to announce the creation of a first-of-its-kind Kids’ Comfort Corner at LAPD Southeast Station. The initiative creates a welcoming, child-centered space […]