Knowledge Builders (KBF) was created in August 2001.  As a contractor of Miami OTAC, KBF Board of Director Chairman Louis Cooper and KBF Executive Director Olive Cooper saw the noticeable gap in technology among underprivileged families, the "have-nots" and realized the gap was a determining factor in hindering the "have-nots" from obtaining financial success. At that time, Mr. & Mrs. Cooper realized that in order to enable the "have-nots" to thrive—or, in a few cases, survive—the gap must be closed.  The KBF mission and vision were created in response to the need to improve children's and families' higher-level technology-related skills.   

 

Through a contract with Miami OTAC, KBF established six (6) computer training facilities throughout Miami in public housing communities such as Culmer in Overtown, Modello in Homestead, Pine Island in Naranja, Southridge I and II in South Miami Heights, Arthur Mays Villages in Goulds, and Perrine Gardens in Perrine.  Within those six (6) computer centers, sixty one (61) residents of public housing successfully completed the computer training offered and were empowered with computer skills. Over 35% of the students that completed the computer training were promoted to better paying positions. Nearly 50% of the adults within the class entered the job workforce, and 80% of the students that completed the computer training use the skills learned today in a public school environment.  

 

The community’s response to KBF services was very positive. To achieve an even greater impact on underprivileged families, KBF changed its focus to improving children's lives through academic and technological enrichment by expanding its operations to include after-school tutorials. Since 2001, Knowledge Builders has helped hundreds of students with academic and technological advancement.