Company furthers its longstanding commitment to financial education and philanthropy
Partnership focuses beyond economics, emphasizing education, values and the cultivation of future leaders
FORT LEE, N.J. - Cross River, a leading technology infrastructure provider offering embedded financial solutions, today announced a $50,000 donation to Greater Zion Church Family, a prominent community institution based in Compton, California. The donation will directly support the expansion of the Church’s “Young Visionaries” program, providing vital financial literacy training to youth in the Compton area.
“The African American and Jewish communities have historically been united by our deep faith in G-d and a focus on our shared values, where we place the well-being of others first and giving is central,” said Gilles Gade, Founder and CEO of Cross River. “We lift others so we can rise together, and our communities' strong, mutual support--especially during these trying times--will help impart these principles in our future leaders, instilling in them a strong foundation in compassion, ethics, and morality."
The donation was announced by Cross River CEO Gilles Gade and Greater Zion Church Family’s Senior Pastor Dr. Michael J. Fisher in a check presentation ceremony held September 29th at the church. Remarks were made by Mayor of Compton Emma Sharif, and the event was attended by local elected officials, including the Mayor of Carson Lula Davis-Holmes, Compton District 1 Council Member Deidre Duhart, Former Compton City Council Member Michelle Chambers, Compton School Board Member Denzel Perry, and a representative from Assemblymember Mike Gipson’s office.
The partnership between Cross River and Greater Zion Church Family equips the next generation of community leaders with the tools they need to be successful. The $50,000 contribution will enable the “Young Visionaries” program to expand its impact and offer two years of quarterly seminars focused on financial security and responsibility. These trainings will provide young people between the ages of 12 and 24 with essential skills in saving, spending, and investing, empowering them to make better informed decisions and build long-term financial security. This comprehensive skill-based learning opportunity will foster personal growth and community connection. In addition to financial literacy, participants explore specialties such as music, photography, and programming, making the program a diverse and holistic development platform for the youth of Compton.
“More now than ever, the world needs to witness partnership and unity. Cross River and Greater Zion are dedicated to demonstrating to our communities the incredible possibilities that emerge when we choose to help our neighbors with intention, rather than succumbing to hate”, said Dr. Michael J. Fisher, Senior Pastor of Greater Zion Church Family.
“I really want to thank Pastor Fisher, Greater Zion Church Family and Cross River,” said Emma Sharif, Mayor of Compton. “Teaching our youth about financial literacy is necessary and life-changing for future generations. We can’t do it alone and we rely on outside organizations, like Cross River, to support us in making a difference. The impact these partnerships have on the Compton community cannot be understated.” said Mayor of Compton.
The donation is part of Cross River’s broader philanthropic effort through its giving arm, Foundation@, which is committed to supporting financial literacy and education across all 50 states. The initiative, known as the 50 States of Philanthropy, with its commitment to “Giving without Borders,” seeks to create lasting impact by providing support to underserved communities nationwide. Cross River’s partnership with Greater Zion Church Family reflects its mission to ensure access to quality education and financial empowerment for all, regardless of location.