Cornerstone History
We’re a nonprofit dedicated to creating a safe and fun space where students in grades 6–12 can grow, connect, and thrive. Here our youth build real friendships, explore their faith, and discover their full potential through Christ.
Here is our continuing story...
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 are volunteers.
March 14, 2001 The first meeting of the Board of Directors occurs. J.D. Martin is approved as the organization’s first paid Executive Director.
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.
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 as Executive Director.
October 2004 After-school hours begin on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with expanded after-school hours for teen homework assistance as well as recreation time.
Spring 2007 The Board of Directors 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 as Executive Director. The CCO partnership continues.
The Transition Years (2007-2008)
October 2007 The Board of Directors submits an offer to purchase the 95 South Wilson Avenue property.
January 31, 2008 Cornerstone Youth Center closes its doors at the Elizabethtown Center Square location.
February 2008 With the assistance of volunteers donating more than 1,000 hours of labor, renovations are made to facilitate the move into 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 Temporary the skateboard area opens in the Recreation Facility to provide the youth of Elizabethtown with its only skateboard activities.
November 2009 Cornerstone hires Laurie Shepler as the first paid Administrative Assistant
Spring 2010 Phase I bids for construction go out.
July 1, 2010 Cornerstone exceeds the Capital Campaign goal of $750,000.
September 2010 Phase I construction begins. Construction focuses on the following areas (Café, Kitchen, Lobby, Staff Offices, Hub, Loft, Mix)
January 10, 2011 Phase II construction (Pit area) awarded to Scenic Ridge Construction.
Spring 2011 Phase I construction ends. Phase II construction (Pit area) begins
Fall 2011 Phase II construction ends. Construction of skateboard ramps began with the direction of Jim Shepler.
January 2020 Laurie Shepler assumes the position of Executive Director, previously held by John M. Myers.
April 2020 Jonathan Weatherholtz accepts the NEW part-time position of Coordinator of Youth and Ministry.
Spring 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic closed the Youth Center for 15 weeks.
Fall of 2020 The new addition of a 19' Rock Climbing Wall is completed in the Skate Park.
March 2022 Jonathan Weatherholtz accepts the full-time position as Coordinator of Youth and Family Ministry.
June 17, 2022 Executive Director Laurie Shepler unexpectedly passes away. Her love and legacy continue on...
The Renewed Vision Years (2022 - Present)
September 2022 Jim Bush is hired as Cornerstone's new Executive Director.
June 2023 Through a generous renovation led by the Elizabethtown Rotary Club, Cornerstone’s café area was transformed into a welcoming space where youth can complete homework, play card and board games, connect with friends, and earn yummy treats.
August 2023 Jennifer Gibson accepts the full-time position as Coordinator of Girl's Programming and Communications.
June 2024 Cornerstone introduces the Empower Leadership Program which launched to equip local high school students with valuable leadership and life skills through an intensive weekly summer progam. Students learn topics including conflict resolution, civic responsibility, financial readiness, communication, and more while growing in confidence, character, and faith.
September 2024 Sammi Simmons accepts the part-time position as Development Coordinator.
