At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we believe that the strength of a community is measured by the hearts of those who choose to serve it. When we look at our journey over the past few years, the lives we’ve touched, the homes we’ve helped stabilize, and the smiles we’ve seen return to faces in South Jersey, there are a few key people who stand out as the pillars of that progress.
Today, we are so excited to turn the spotlight on one of those incredible individuals: our very own Board Member, Kemi Abiola.
If you’ve spent any time around our organization, you know that Kemi is a force of nature. She doesn’t just show up to meetings; she brings a level of passion, energy, and genuine care that reminds us all why we started this work in the first place. Whether she’s strategizing in the boardroom or rolling up her sleeves at a local event, Kemi’s commitment to empowering families is nothing short of inspiring.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Recently, we had the pleasure of gathering for a special luncheon where Kemi was recognized for her "continuing service and support." It was a beautiful afternoon filled with gratitude, and seeing Kemi in her element was a highlight for everyone in attendance.
In the photo above, you’ll see Kemi right in the center, surrounded by the warmth of a community that truly appreciates her. That smile says it all. For Kemi, this isn’t about accolades or titles; it’s about the tangible difference we can make when we work together. Her recognition at the luncheon wasn't just for a single event, but for the countless hours she spends behind the scenes ensuring that Family ReBuild of New Jersey remains a beacon of hope for those who need us most.
Reaching the 750+ Families Milestone
One of the most significant achievements we’ve celebrated recently is reaching the milestone of serving over 750 families. When we look at that number, we don't just see a statistic. We see 750 households that found a little more stability, 750 stories of resilience, and 750 opportunities for a brighter future.
Kemi has been instrumental in helping us reach this goal. Her leadership on the board provides the strategic direction we need to scale our impact without losing the "family" feel that defines us. She understands that to serve hundreds of families effectively, you have to treat each one with the dignity and respect they deserve.
"Kemi has this incredible way of looking at a problem and seeing the human being at the center of it," says our CEO and Founder, Ananeika Gordon. "She pushes us to think bigger, to reach further, and to never settle for 'good enough' when our families deserve the best."
It’s this kind of leadership that allows us to grow. Because of voices like Kemi’s, we’ve been able to expand our reach throughout Burlington County and beyond, ensuring that South Jersey remains a place where families can thrive, not just survive.
Deeply Rooted in South Jersey
What makes Kemi such a perfect fit for the Family ReBuild board is her deep personal investment in our local community. She isn't an outsider looking in; she is a South Jersey volunteer through and through. She knows our streets, she knows our schools, and most importantly, she knows our people.
Kemi’s commitment to the South Jersey community is personal. She understands the unique challenges that Black families in our area face, from housing instability to navigating social services. By bringing her lived experience and professional expertise to the table, she helps us tailor our programs to meet the actual needs of our neighbors.
When we talk about "rebuilding," we aren't just talking about physical structures. We are talking about rebuilding the social fabric that keeps us all connected. Kemi’s presence on the board ensures that our mission stays grounded in the reality of the people we serve. She is a constant advocate for inclusive, compassionate support that empowers people to take the next step in their journey with confidence.
Empowering Families Together
The core of our mission is empowerment. We don’t just want to provide a temporary fix; we want to give families the tools they need to build a lasting foundation. Kemi embodies this philosophy. She is a firm believer that everyone has the potential to succeed if they have the right support system behind them.
Through her work on the board, Kemi helps oversee our various initiatives, from educational workshops to direct social services. She is always looking for ways to improve our partnership opportunities and bring more sponsors into the fold. Her goal is simple: to make sure that no family in our community feels like they have to face their struggles alone.
We are so grateful for her ability to build bridges. Whether she’s talking to a corporate donor or a mother looking for resources, Kemi speaks with the same level of warmth and authenticity. She makes people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Why We Do What We Do
At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we are a family. From our directors like Edward Gordon and Shawn Jacobs to our dedicated volunteers, we are united by a shared purpose.
Our work is about more than just social services; it’s about restoring hope. When a family is in crisis, it can feel like the world is closing in. Our job, and the job Kemi does so well, is to show them that there is a way forward. We focus on dignity, confidence, and respect in everything we do. We want the families we serve to know that they are worth the effort and that their community is standing right there with them.
Join Kemi in Making a Difference
Seeing the impact Kemi has had on our organization makes us realize how much more we can accomplish when more people get involved. You don’t have to be a board member to make a difference. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every word of support helps us reach the next 750 families.
If Kemi’s story inspires you, we invite you to take action today. There are so many ways to support our mission:
- Become a Volunteer: Like Kemi, you can give your time and talents to help our South Jersey neighbors. Get involved and see the impact firsthand.
- Make a Donation: Your financial support directly funds the programs that stabilize and empower families. Every bit helps. Donate now.
- Spread the Word: Follow our latest news and share our stories with your network. Awareness is the first step toward change.
- Attend an Event: Come meet us in person! Check out our upcoming events to see how you can participate in our community gatherings.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To Kemi Abiola: thank you for your heart, your wisdom, and your unwavering support. You are a vital part of the Family ReBuild family, and we are so lucky to have you in our corner. Your recognition at the luncheon was just a small token of our appreciation for everything you do.
We also want to thank you, our readers and supporters. It is because of your trust and generosity that we can continue this vital work. Together, we are rebuilding more than just homes; we are rebuilding lives.
If you’d like to learn more about the people behind our mission, feel free to visit our who we are page or read more about our team on our blog. We are always looking for new friends to join us on this journey.
Let’s keep building, South Jersey!
With gratitude,
Ananeika Gordon
CEO/Founder, Family ReBuild of New Jersey
Want to stay connected? Contact us today to find out how you can play a part in our next big milestone. Whether you're interested in a partnership or just want to say hello, we'd love to hear from you!
