TMJF, Money Vehicle, JUMP High to Empower New Jersey Families Through Financial Literacy
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation proudly joined Cooper Medical School of Rowan University (CMSRU) to celebrate the culmination of a powerful partnership—one rooted in education, empowerment, and community. Through CMSRU’s JUMP High (Junior Urban Medical Pioneers) program, eight New Jersey high school students and their parents completed TMJF’s Closing the Wealth Gap program, a multi-week financial literacy course powered by TMJF and the nationally recognized Money Vehicle curriculum.
Led by Dr. Guy Hewlett, Associate Dean, Office of Engagement and Community Impact at CMSRU, the JUMP High program provides mentorship and immersive academic and career enrichment experiences and exposure to healthcare careers for youth who excel in math and science. This year, the program expanded to include a vital new dimension: financial literacy for the whole family.
A Two-Generation Approach to Financial Empowerment
At TMJF, we believe that real change starts at home—and that families thrive when they learn together. That’s why this program was intentionally designed with a two-generation approach. Students were encouraged to bring a parent or caregiver to each session, allowing families to build financial knowledge and confidence side by side.
The curriculum, delivered over six months, (two-hour sessions offered one Saturday each month) by CMSRU medical students trained in facilitation, introduced key concepts such as budgeting, saving, credit, and investing. Beyond the numbers, students and their families were given tools to better understand the systems that shape financial opportunity—and the power they have to create generational change.
Medical Students as Mentors and Leaders
One of the most impactful elements of the program was the involvement of CMSRU’s medical students as facilitators. These aspiring physicians didn’t just teach financial principles—they modeled leadership, discipline, and the value of giving back. Their presence sent a clear message: “You belong in every room. And your dreams are possible.”
By sharing their personal journeys and helping demystify both healthcare and financial systems, these students forged meaningful connections and encouraged high school participants to dream bigger—and plan smarter. It was a great example of peer-to-peer learning an leadership in action.
Celebrating Achievement and Commitment
The culmination event, held on CMSRU’s campus, was a joyful and affirming moment for all involved. Each student and parent pair received a certificate of completion, honoring their commitment to the program and to each other.
“This program is a perfect example of how we build legacy,” said Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, President and CEO of TMJF. “When families learn together, they grow together. And when young people see themselves not just as students—but as future leaders, doctors, and creators—that’s how we close the wealth gap.”
Looking Ahead
As TMJF celebrates 15 years of impact, initiatives like this one underscore the importance of collaboration, culturally responsive programming, and community-rooted solutions. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Hewlett, CMSRU, and every student, parent, and mentor who made this experience a success.
This is more than a partnership. It’s a movement toward equity, opportunity, and generational transformation—one family at a time.
