Genesis CDC
Who We Are.
Why We Exist.
Genesis Community Development Corporation was founded on a simple conviction: every young person, regardless of background, deserves access to the tools, guidance, and support that make a future possible.
We are committed to supporting under-resourced students to discover their passion and seek the appropriate educational opportunities to realize their dreams.
Built from community.
Driven by purpose.
Genesis was founded in 2015 to equip, enrich, and empower underserved children, youth, and adults. Each chapter built on the last. Select any stop below to explore the journey.
HBCU Tours and College Readiness
Adopted a successful 34-year HBCU tour program to support student awareness of and access to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and designed the comprehensive Prep for Success college readiness program to complement the tours. This chapter set the foundation for everything Genesis does today.
Tuskegee University graduate, engineer, author, playwright, and community advocate. Carl Ray initiated HBCU college tours over 32 years ago, planting the seed that grew into everything Genesis carries forward. His legacy lives in every program, every workshop, and every student Genesis reaches today.
Read the Tribute to Carl RayReNewU Reintegration Program
Piloted the ReNewU program, a faith-based initiative addressing the needs of formerly incarcerated adults to support successful reintegration and return to their communities. A model built on restoration, not just reentry.
Summer Learning and Community Partnership
Ran a successful summer learning program in partnership with Cal State Bakersfield, serving youth in Fremont through the Summer Algebra Institute for five years.
Prep for Success
Genesis refocused its full energy around Prep for Success, the organization's core program today. Serving students, parents, Transitional Age Youth, former foster youth, and justice-involved families across five focus areas. The mission is the same. The reach is wider.
Our Team
The people behind Genesis bring decades of experience in mental health, education, counseling, and community service. Their work is personal.
Lynn Gardner Lockett
Executive Director
Lynn Gardner Lockett
MBA, MS Counseling. Over 20 years in mental health and community programming. Founder of Genesis CDC.
Colette Jack
Community Ambassador
Colette Jack
"The work of a Genesis Ambassador is important because we are the first contact to reach out to schools and organizations to introduce our services."
Carol Rutledge
Community Ambassador
Carol Rutledge
"I am inspired to assist the next generation in setting, reaching and exceeding their personal and career goals."
Denise Carr-Robinson
Community Ambassador
Denise Carr-Robinson
"The work of a Genesis Ambassador allows me to advocate and promote meaningful opportunities that uplift individuals and families. It can open doors to opportunities unknown to the people we reach."
Dyanne Headley
Community Ambassador
Dyanne Headley
Quote and bio coming soon.
Board of Directors
Janice Brathwaite
Chair
Janice Brathwaite
With over 15 years of operational and management experience and a Bachelor of Science from UNLV, Janice brings deep expertise to her role.
Andree Driskell-Grady
Treasurer
Andree Driskell-Grady
Bio coming soon.
Amaka Agodi
Board Member
Amaka Agodi
Amaka is a young adult who believes in Jesus and thanks God each and every day. Working as a research associate and certified nursing assistant, she uses a compassionate and inquisitive heart to help those in need.
Tammy Long
Board Member
Tammy Long
Bio coming soon.
Greg Pierce
Board Member
Greg Pierce
Bio coming soon.
Ready to partner with Genesis?
Whether you are a school, community organization, faith-based group, or individual who wants to support the mission, there is a place for you in this work.