651 ARTS was founded in 1988 and is dedicated to deepening awareness of and appreciation for contemporary performing arts and culture of the African Diaspora and providing professional and creative opportunities for artists of African descent. Centered on serving the community, 651 ARTS presents and develops live dance, music, theatre and performance-based art to engage audiences in civic discourse and celebrates cultural heritage.

CJAM Consulting was engaged in 2018 to manage and coordinate the team participating in a new 12,500sq ft capital project that, in partnership with other allied organizations such as MOCADA, will serve as a permanent home in Downtown Brooklyn’s Cultural District. The new development will feature a black box theater space, three studios, two conference rooms, a suite of offices, and a gallery with gathering space.

On track to open in Fall of 2024, CJAM has been central to ensuring the continued movement and success of the project in the face of complications encountered due to the COVID-19 pandemic and organizational leadership transition. CJAM interfaced with funders and secured funding toward the project in partnership with AdvanceNYC. Additionally, CJAM, in collaboration with the Board of Directors and past and present leadership, has crafted a pro-forma financial model and operations plan to place the organization on track for occupancy of the new building upon completion. Today, CJAM continues the work of management and coordination of teams. Under new leadership, the organization is poised for growth. It has renewed their commitment to strengthen their artist development programs and grow their community engagement and education initiatives to support a new generation of Black artists.