As the pandemic intensified, the conditions within many Chicago shelters became unsustainable. Cj made the difficult decision to depart, utilizing the funds he had accumulated. In 2020, he secured his initial apartment on Chicago's South Side. He proceeded to navigate independent living, managing financial obligations, academic responsibilities, and full-time employment. Despite a commitment to provide post-care services until the age of twenty-three, he quickly realized that resources were scarce, particularly for young men residing on the South Side.

Presently, at twenty-six years old, Cj resides in a five-bedroom residence on Chicago’s South Side. He credits the attainment of stable housing to personal discipline, financial saving, and independently navigating housing resources. While he is no longer experiencing homelessness, these past experiences continue to influence his outlook and daily existence.

As the Founder of Break The System Project, Cj is dedicated to empowering system-impacted young men, specifically those aging out of foster care, the juvenile justice system, or experiencing homelessness or instability. His mission is to bridge the gap between mere survival and actual success by equipping young men with the necessary tools for them to flourish. His methodology involves validating lived experience as a valuable credential rather than a liability, engaging peers where they are, and empowering them for future leadership and purpose rooted in healing and community.

Since its launch in February 2025, Break The System Project has spread its mission to 267 system-impacted young adults and 25 households across Chicago’s South and Northwest Sides. Through direct outreach services, community support, and resource navigation to help young men become stable, heal, and build toward long‑term independence.

Break The System Project received a nomination for YNPN's 2025 Nonprofit of the Year. Cj was individually nominated for YNPN's 2025 Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year. Furthermore, Cj's appointment to the National Youth Advisory Council significantly expands his mission's reach on a national level.