Economic Development

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Financial Fortitude Initiative

Economic trends, such as unstable employment, the threat to Social Security as we know it, and the widening gap between wealth and poverty are the basis for the development of Financial Fortitude, the current Economic Development Program Initiative of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Financial Fortitude is a process that will help program participants to set and define goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and to put the plan into action. The process serves as a blueprint to address all aspects of personal finances.

The Financial Fortitude Initiative is comprised of ten components and provides a collaboration of information from the FDIC, the National Endowment for Financial Education and other well-known financial institutions. The initiative helps members of the Sorority to spread financial education throughout their local communities.

Financial Fortitude Logo
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Committee Co-Chairs

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Michelle Dutton
Michelle Dutton
Linda Darby
Linda Darby
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Programs & Events

CJA’s Economic Development committee raises awareness about financial planning, wealth building, entrepreneurship and other vital topics of interest through community programs for all age groups.

DFree Financial Wellness: From Debt to Legacy

October 7, 2026
Strengthen your financial confidence and improve your relationship with money during our financial journey to wellness.

Elder Day of Joy

Saturday | May 16, 2026
This dynamic program is designed to equip adults 50+ with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to navigate essential resources that support healthy, empowered aging.

Small Black-Owned Business Spotlight

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Black-owned, service-based small businesses that are making an impact in our community.

Black Owned Business Showcase Prezi Party

Saturday, December 6, 2025
The Small Business Prezi Party is a dynamic virtual event spotlighting Black-owned, service-based small businesses located within our service area.

Union County Pop-Up Black Owned Business Buy-In

The Business Crawl is an initiative designed to support and increase the visibility of Black-owned businesses in Middlesex, Somerset, and Union counties.

Building Financial Fortitude Across Generations

It takes time and care to build and transfer generational wealth, and failing to plan can risk it all. Experts shared how to avoid that fate during a webcast from the Central Jersey Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.