BJB Foundation Estate

Operation Longthrust was founded over 50 years ago by Barbara Jean Brown, a trailblazing leader dedicated to empowering young people through education, leadership, and community service. Recognizing the need for safe, enriching spaces for disadvantaged youth, she established Operation Longthrust as a transformational camp experience that nurtured self-confidence, resilience, and purpose in young participants.

Today, the legacy continues under the leadership of her daughter, Cynthia Fedrick, who remains committed to carrying forward her mother’s vision. Through mentorship, arts, and leadership training, Cynthia has expanded the program to meet the evolving needs of today’s youth while staying true to its original mission.

Prior to 2020, Operation Longthrust operated larger camps with a broader reach. However, due to the impacts of COVID-19, we transitioned to smaller, more intimate camps the the BJB Foundation Estate to provide a deeper, more personalized experience. This model has proven to be highly effective, allowing us to engage youth in meaningful ways while maintaining a safe and nurturing environment. The 2025 expansion continues this mission by ensuring 24 young women receive the benefits of this impactful program.