About

Who We Are

The Legacy Center of Southwest Florida is a community-based organization committed to equipping young people with the leadership skills, financial knowledge, and career exposure they need to build strong futures and lasting family legacies. Through intentional programming and meaningful experiences, we prepare youth to lead, thrive, and make a positive impact in their families and communities.

We proudly operate as the DBA for JCOC Christian Preparatory Academy, Inc., a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations and contributions made to support our mission are fully tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

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Our Mission

The Legacy Center equips young people with leadership skills, financial knowledge, and career exposure to help them build strong futures and lasting family legacies.

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Our Vision

A future where every young person is prepared to lead, thrive, and pass on a legacy of opportunity and impact.

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Our Core Values

Equity – We believe every young person deserves access to opportunities, resources, and guidance that support their growth and success.
Leadership – We cultivate confidence, character, and responsibility, empowering youth to lead with purpose and integrity.
Mentorship – We value positive relationships and intergenerational connections that encourage growth, wisdom-sharing, and accountability.
Empowerment – We equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and shape their own futures.
Legacy-Building – We honor heritage, culture, and community while inspiring generational impact that extends beyond today.

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What We Do

The Legacy Center creates pathways for young people to discover their potential, strengthen their leadership abilities, and explore future possibilities. Our programs are designed to prepare youth for lifelong success while fostering a strong sense of purpose and legacy.

Our programming includes:

• Leadership development and character building
• Public speaking and effective communication
• Academic and enrichment experiences
• Financial literacy and wealth foundations
• Career and workforce exploration
• Cultural education and community engagement

Through these opportunities, young people gain the confidence, skills, and exposure needed to lead, thrive, and create meaningful impact. create pathways for young people to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and discover future careers through programs that include:

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Our Story

The Story of the Legacy Center

The Legacy Center of Southwest Florida is the realization of a vision rooted in faith, education, and community transformation. Its foundation traces back to JCOC Christian Preparatory Academy, Inc., a faith-based organization established in 2006 to nurture youth, strengthen families, and promote academic excellence.

For years, JCOC Christian Preparatory Academy served young people through programs grounded in Christian values, leadership development, and cultural enrichment. As the needs of the community evolved, so did the vision—recognizing the importance of not only educating youth, but also preserving legacy, fostering intergenerational connection, and preparing young people for life beyond the classroom.

From this growth, The Legacy Center of Southwest Florida was established as the official DBA of JCOC Christian Preparatory Academy, Inc. The Legacy Center builds upon the Academy’s strong foundation while expanding its reach to create a vibrant hub where leadership, learning, culture, and legacy intersect.

Today, the Legacy Center serves as a space for youth development, intergenerational learning, and community enrichment. While our programs continue to grow and adapt, our purpose remains constant: equipping young people to lead with confidence, build strong futures, and carry forward legacies that uplift families and communities.

Empowering Today. Transforming Tomorrow.

Founder

Autumn Watkins Holloway, M.Ed
Founder • Educator • Community & Youth Development Leader

Autumn Watkins Holloway founded the Legacy Center of Southwest Florida with a clear purpose: to equip young people with the leadership skills, financial knowledge, and career exposure needed to build strong futures and lasting family legacies. Her work is deeply rooted in education, cultural preservation, and a commitment to strengthening families through intentional, community-centered programming.

With a background in education and decades of experience serving youth and families, Autumn believes that legacy is built through access, mentorship, and intergenerational connection. Under her leadership, the Legacy Center serves as a vibrant hub where young people are prepared to lead and thrive—supported by adults, elders, and community partners who help pass on wisdom, values, and opportunity.