History
Spring 1998
-J.D. Martin introduces his vision for a teen coffeehouse to 17 youth pastors in the greater Elizabethtown area.
September 1998
-Cornerstone Café opens in the former David Martin Menswear Store, Center Square, Elizabethtown. The main emphasis is a Friday night coffeehouse. The entire staff is volunteer.
March 14, 2001
-The first Board of Directors meets. J.D. Martin is the organization’s first paid Executive Director (parttime).
March 28, 2001
-Early items of business include the development of purpose and mission statements, an operating budget, and a job description for the Executive Director.
November 2002
-Sonja Martin agrees to serve as Interim Executive Director.
December 2003
-Christie Murlatt, an Elizabethtown College senior, is the first official intern (volunteer). A partnership is formed with Coalition for Christian Outreach, a campus ministry that partners with churches, colleges, and other organizations to develop men and women who live out their Christian faith in every area of life.
February 2004
-The Board approves a move from a coffeehouse emphasis to a more structured community youth center.
August 2004
-Christie (Murlatt) Gustafson is hired (parttime) as Executive Director.
October 2004
-Afterschool hours begin on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with expanded afterschool hours for teen homework assistance as well as recreation time.
February 2006
-The Pit is opened in the basement for Friday night activities and guest speakers.
Spring 2007
-The Board studies whether to remain at Center Square or to search for a permanent home for the ministry.
August 2007
-John Myers, a former pastor and Cornerstone volunteer, is hired (parttime) as Executive Director. The CCO partnership continues.
October 2007
-The Board submits an offer to purchase the 95 South Wilson Avenue property.
January 31, 2008
-Cornerstone Community Ministries closes its doors at the Elizabethtown Center Square location.
February 2008
-With the assistance of volunteers donating more than 1000 hours of labor, Phase I of renovations are made to facilitate the move in to Cornerstone’s new location.
March 7, 2008
-Cornerstone reopens its doors in the new location, with nearly 60 youth attending on the opening night.
September 25, 2008
-Cornerstone Capital Campaign kick-off banquet. The dinner invites community support for its 3-year $750,000 goal.
September 2009
-Skateboard area opens in Recreation Facility to provide youth of Elizabethtown its only skateboard activities.
Spring 2010
-Phase II of renovations begin focusing on Multipurpose Facility and Phase I areas (Subject to change)
