True Legacy Initiative

Mission

To ensure reunified and at-risk families not only stay together but succeed together by addressing the critical unmet needs that often lead back to the child welfare system. Through housing stability, job access, transportation solutions, financial empowerment, and community connection, we provide the practical tools, mentorship, and opportunities families need to build a lasting legacy of hope, health, and self-sufficiency.

Vision

A future where every reunified family has the stability, resources, and opportunities to thrive — breaking cycles of crisis, poverty, and system involvement for generations to come.

Guiding Beliefs

  • Family Preservation is Not Enough — Without sustained support, families risk returning to crisis.
  • Poverty is Preventable — Access to stable housing, jobs, and transportation are non-negotiable for stability
  • Legacy Over Lifelines — We focus on long-term solutions that help families create generational change.
  • Community is the Catalyst — Strong communities help families stay on track and thrive together.
  • Empowerment Beats Rescue — We equip families to lead their own success story.

Core Service Areas

Housing Stability & Safe Homes

  • Transitional Housing Grants: 1–6 months of rental assistance for reunified families to prevent eviction or homelessness.
  • “Keys to Legacy” Landlord Partnership Program: Partner with landlords to secure safe, affordable housing for DCS-involved and reunified families.
  • Home Essentials Bank: Furniture, appliances, and household goods for families moving into permanent housing (similar to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore).
  • Emergency Housing Navigation: Crisis placement services for families facing immediate displacement.

Economic Empowerment & Employment

  • Legacy Works: Job readiness program with resume help, interview prep, and direct employer connections.
  • Partnership with Local Employers: Incentivized hiring programs for parents completing DCS services.
  • Vocational Training Scholarships: Fund trade school, CDL licensing, healthcare certifications, etc.
  • Small Business Microgrants: Seed money for family-run startups with mentoring support.

Transportation Access

  • Legacy Wheels: Provide donated vehicles or repair vouchers for families who need reliable transportation for work, school, and services.
  • Ride Pass Program: Fund public transportation passes or ride-share credits for job interviews, court dates, and school meetings.
  • Driver’s License Restoration: Help parents resolve fines, fees, and reinstatement barriers.

Post-Reunification Mentorship & Navigation

  • Legacy Guides: Trained peer mentors (parents who have successfully reunified) to walk alongside new reunified families for 12 months.
  • Life Skills Coaching: Budgeting, time management, parenting support, and conflict resolution.
  • Family Stability Check-Ins: Quarterly home visits to catch small issues before they become big crises.

Family Health & Wellness

  • Therapy Continuation Fund: Pays for mental health therapy after state funding ends.
  • Family Retreats: Weekend programs that rebuild trust, communication, and bonding.
  • Nutrition & Wellness Classes: Partner with local food banks and health educators.

Legacy Kids Program

  • Tutoring & Academic Support: Keep kids on track academically post-reunification.
  • Youth Leadership Clubs: Give kids positive peer groups and skill-building opportunities.
  • College & Career Readiness: Scholarships, mentorships, and job-shadowing programs.

Specific Programs

01

The 365 Safety Net

A year-long wraparound support program for every reunified family, combining housing help, transportation, mentorship, and skills training.
Goal: Reduce re-entry into the child welfare system by 70%.

02

Legacy Launch Packs

Each family receives a customized bundle of essentials (groceries, gift cards, school supplies, gas cards, work uniforms, etc.) upon reunification — designed to stabilize the first 90 days.

03

From Crisis to Career

Intensive 12-week program that transitions parents from unemployment or low-wage work into sustainable careers with upward mobility.

04

Drive to Thrive

Partnership with local auto shops, dealerships, and donors to provide vehicles and car repair for families in need.