Providing Enriching Opportunities that Impact Lives
Learn more about our programs and services. See how we are uplifting the lives of people with
barriers to employment and providing meaningful cultural experiences that change lives.
Programs & Services
At Cornerstone Associates, we are committed to understanding the needs of each person we work with. Our associates may have physical, intellectual or social barriers that can impact how they navigate their lives. We tailor our programs and services based on the goals of each individual. Whether providing employment-based skills and training or exposing them to enriching social, arts and cultural experiences, we strive to lift up each person to reach their full potential.
Arts & Culture Programs
The Arts & Culture program supported by Cornerstone Associates is called Living Studios. At Living Studios, we believe art can make a positive difference in everyone’s life. Art is a means of expression for everyone and an important part of Cornerstone Associates mission. Artists at Living Studios are encouraged to express their voice in ways they may find difficult using the written or spoken word. Through many different forms of art mediums, artists can transform their feelings into works of art. Through the process of creating art, they are building important and powerful tools to help strengthen their ability to connect to each other and to the communities in which they live.
Artists that participate at Living Studios have opportunities to be recognized as artists, participate in cultural events, and be given a voice socially, culturally and politically. The program provides artists with an enriching environment where they are provided tools, guidance and teaching, if desired. Artists have the opportunity to participate in gallery exhibits across the region and the United States. Artists explore the arts locally and participate in various cultural field trips, visiting "artists in residence", local art and gallery exhibitions. They are also offered the opportunity to participate in daily art workshops. Living Studios artists are accomplished artists, some participating in gallery shows across the state and even in New York City.
"Creativity takes courage"~Henri Matisse
Employment Programs
Cornerstone Associates operates several separate companies dedicated to empowering people with barriers to employment. Our companies are an integral part of serving the needs and goals of our associates within our non-profit structure. We recognize that everyone has different abilities and strengths, and we strive to diversify the kinds of employment opportunities we have to offer. Our associates can utilize their individual strengths while developing new skills that will help them in a real-world work environment.
Our measure of success is based on the individual success of each person we serve. Our focus is on providing work experiences that not only enhance job skills but provide a sense of meaning and purpose to their lives and more connection to the communities in which they live.
"Determination has no disability.” ~Robert M. Hensel
Sarah, Janitorial Associate
We are excited to feature Sarah in our Success Spotlight! Sarah worked for us and then left the area. We are excited to have her back on our Cornerstone Associates team. Help us congratulate Sarah on a job well done!
About Us
Formed in 2001 through the merger of two non-profits, Bonney Enterprises and Open Door, Inc., Cornerstone Associates carried forward a purpose built on over 70 combined years. Cornerstone Associates has continued to build on the foundation to continue to fulfill its purposeful mission. A mission to that strives to providing meaningful opportunities for employment, social, arts and cultural experiences that lift up individual they serve to reach their fullest potential.
Cornerstone Associates is proud of the culture we built that respects and promotes dignity, individuality, independence and freedom of choice. It is our belief that meeting people where they are and providing opportunities to empower them, they not only enhance the lives of the individuals they serve but also the communities in which we live.
Our Associates
Cornerstone Associates serves many types of individuals through our programs and services. We work with each person to understand their unique goals and work beside them to guide their personal development. We strive to help our associates reach their full potential whether they are seeking employment or arts and cultural experiences.
Staff Directory
At the core of every Cornerstone Associates staff is the heart to serve. They are committed to delivering programs and services that positively impact the lives of the people they support. The programs not only enrich the lives of the associates, but provide an even deeper connection between the associates and their community.
Board of Directors
Cornerstone Associates Board of Directors are passionate advocates in support of our mission. They serve in an advisory role, partnering with staff on long-term planning and ensuring the effectiveness of programs and services. Our Board of Directors are our biggest fans and help build community support for our efforts.
