overview
Jeremiah Program Legacy Award
The JP Legacy Award is more than an award — it’s a recognition of young leaders who are carrying forward the values of resilience, determination, and leadership that define the JP community.
The JP Legacy Award is an initiative designed to uplift and celebrate the children of JP alumni who are making an impact in their communities. By investing in their education and aspirations, we continue our mission of disrupting generational poverty, two generations at a time.
Three children of JP alumni receive educational funding through a 529 or peer state program:
- First Place: $10,000
- Second Place: $5,000
- Third Place: $2,500
Meet the 2025 WINNERS
Elijah moen | First place
Elijah is a high school senior who has been accepted to every college he’s applied to. The son of 2011 JP alum Rhea Moen, he inspires not only his peers but also others in the community. During his junior year, a spate of gun-related school incidents led him to voice his concerns at a community meeting where hundreds of community members, including district leaders, were present. “Through his collective effort with others, Elijah has been a part of creating policy and changes in practices at Roseville Area High School,” his mother said. “These changes will ensure that Roseville Area High School is a safe place for all students, for years to come.”
Leilani Benson | Second Place
Leilani, who is finishing her senior year of high school, is the daughter of 2024-2025 JP Alumni Fellow Tiffany Benson. Actively engaged in several sports and other extracurricular activities, her involvement in a club called Soul Sisters is a special source of community and action for her. “She’s helped organize events and activities to ensure that all members of the group feel seen, supported, and uplifted,” her mother said, “which reflects her dedication to creating a more inclusive and compassionate community. … [Soul Sisters is] where she sees the power of sisterhood in creating change, where her belief in solidarity and empowerment is put into practice.”
Tyzjaun Sims | Third Place
Tyzjaun, also known as Ty, is the son of 2022-2023 JP Alumni Fellow Lavasha Smith. Rounding out his freshman year in high school, he is a leader in sports, clubs, and academics, excelling as a scholar and regularly tutoring his friends across subjects, particularly math. “By helping my classmates, I desire to help them build confidence, do better in school, and understand what they are actually learning about,” he shared in his application. “My goal is that people are happy to come to school and this contributes to a more supportive and successful student body.”
Legacy Award Finalist Panel
A conversation with JP President and CEO Chastity Lord and the JP alumni moms of the 2025 finalists (JP Summit Weekend, March 9, 2025)
Legacy Award fireside chat
A conversation with JP President and CEO Chastity Lord, the first-place winner of the 2025 JP Legacy Award, Elijah Moen, and his mother. (May 21, 2025)
