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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Spectrum News Features Gordon Philanthropies and A New Way of Life Reentry Project for Back-to-School

A recent Spectrum News story featuring A New Way of Life Reentry Project and Gordon Philanthropies shines a light on an often-overlooked consequence of incarceration: its impact on children and families. The story highlights three powerful statistics. An estimated 2.3 million minor children have a parent who is incarcerated. Families can also experience significant financial hardship, with household income declining […]

Celebrating a Year of Impact

In 2025, Gordon Philanthropies reached a defining moment in its work to expand access to literacy. Through intentional growth, trusted partnership, and programs rooted in community need, we continued to place books—and opportunity—where they are most needed. As we mark our fourth anniversary, we are proud to share a milestone that once felt aspirational: […]

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. […]