Cornerstone Foundation for Educational Advancement

The Cornerstone Foundation for Educational Advancement (CFEA) in partnership with ACOE, Probation and Private Sector, hosts a program for young men at Camp Sweeney who have an interest in building. Through a 12 to 16 week program, students are provided insights in to the professions of architecture and engineering. Students are introduced into the design and construction industry and the role the architect plays in the process. Students meet with industry experts while learning the basic skills of conceptual drawing, drafting, 3-D modeling, architectural rendering, and overall visual presentation skills. In addition to lectures by industry professionals and day long trips to architectural projects and related locations, students are introduced to career opportunities and education requirements for entrance, training and preparation in the trades.

The first half of the semester focuses in the fundamentals of real estate development, city and urban planning, engineering, design, and construction. Students acting as architects work in teams to develop and create a design of their choice, using the tools and skills taught in the classroom instruction. The program introduces an industry beyond that of construction; and serves as a way to expose students to potential career options. This program is a unique opportunity for students to be creative, constructive, and positive. During the Spring and Summer of 2005, five students who completed the CFEA training were hired on the new Juvenile Justice facility construction project in San Leandro.

“Cornerstone is making a difference in the lives of these students,” said Superintendent of Alameda County Schools Sheila Jordan. “We appreciate their continued work and commitment to teaching students valuable skills that will have a lasting impact.”

The Cornerstone Project was founded 18 years ago by Wayne Perry, owner of the Cornerstone Concilium. Perry has made it his life’s work to help disadvantaged youth. The purpose is to provide students with a real-world connection between the classroom and work.