By Detric Howell, Chief Digital Strategist for Courtney Jordan Giving + Director of Communications, Division of Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship, The Neyius Corporation
Twelve years ago, a heartfelt video was published to the YouTube channel of what was then known as the Courtney Jordan Group. At the time, our founder, philanthropist Courtney Jordan, had a vision: to make a difference in the lives of just a few people in our community. It was a modest start, driven by an unwavering passion to uplift, inspire, and provide opportunities for those who needed it most.
Fast forward to today, and that vision has grown beyond what anyone could have imagined. What began as a small initiative has evolved into the Courtney Jordan Foundation, a global force of change impacting lives across the world. Yet, even as we celebrate our growth, we never forget the early days and the extraordinary individuals who helped us build this legacy of giving.
The Video That Defined a Moment
One particular moment stands out from those early years—a video we shared to honor a remarkable staff member, Joanna Bishop-Tyer. Joanna was not just an employee; she was the embodiment of hope, compassion, and unwavering dedication to our mission.
In the video, Courtney Jordan expressed deep gratitude to Joanna for her role in shaping programs that enriched countless lives. From youth mentorship to adult education initiatives, Joanna’s efforts created ripples that are still felt today. Her ability to connect with the community and inspire others to join our cause was unmatched.
A Simple ‘Thank You’ That Meant the World
The video wasn’t just about saying thank you—it was about recognizing the power of one person to ignite change. In a world often consumed by numbers and results, Joanna reminded us that the heart of philanthropy lies in the individuals who care enough to make a difference, one life at a time.
Watching the video now, you can see the humility and sincerity that defined our early years. It’s a time capsule of a moment when we paused to appreciate the journey, the people, and the purpose that united us.
From Local Roots to Global Impact
Today, the Courtney Jordan Foundation operates in 17 countries, with 26 subsidiaries and over $180 million donated to causes that matter. While our reach has expanded, our core mission remains unchanged: to bring hope, create opportunities, and transform lives.
This flashback serves as a powerful reminder of where we started and how far we’ve come. It reminds us of the people—like Joanna—who believed in a vision and worked tirelessly to turn it into reality.
A Call to Action
As we reflect on our journey, we encourage you to join us in continuing this legacy of giving. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, your contributions help us honor the spirit of those early days while building a brighter future.
Let’s take a moment to celebrate the power of gratitude and the extraordinary individuals who make our work possible. Visit CourtneyJordan.org to watch the video, learn more about our programs, and discover how you can be part of this incredible journey.
Because, as Courtney always says, “It only takes one person to spark a change, but together, we can light the world.”
• Detric Howell
Chief Digital Strategist, Courtney Jordan Giving