“When a child enters kindergarten ready to learn, they are twice as likely to be able to read in third grade, which is one of the biggest indicators showing whether someone will graduate high school.” According to the United Way of the Quad Cities website, “in the Quad Cities, 14 percent of the children are not ready for kindergarten."

Lives of Legacy is a non-profit organization based on four pillars: Strengths Based Poverty Alleviation, Community Safety & Security, Community Health & Wellness, and Cradle-to-Career Education. Strengths Based Poverty Alleviation helps students develop their strengths and change their future to get out of poverty. Community Safety & Security strives to create a safer community, and Community Health & Wellness provides health resources through business partners. Finally, Cradle-to-Career Education helps everyone receive the education they need to succeed in life. 

Lives of Legacy provides a 13-week course to help high school students develop their strengths through the Gallup StrengthsFinder assessment. “We want the students to realize their value and that their community needs their gifts,” says Jeremy Tatman, founder. Throughout the course, the students receive job training and create a life plan. The course meets for one hour, once a week, and graduates will earn $100 or a free pair of Jordan shoes. 

Lives of Legacy is always looking for business partners and volunteers. A community meeting is held every first Friday of the month at the Davenport Family YMCA at 7:30 am. Volunteers are also needed for the weekly program with students. To get involved, email livesoflegacy@gmail.com and find information about them at www.facebook.com/livesoflegacy.

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