Jessica Teszlewicz, Class of June 2024

Framing Legacy: Ready for What’s Next was a community development initiative created in partnership between Tinker Federal Credit Union and HopeHouse OKC, focused on supporting women in transitional housing as they work toward employment, stability, and long-term financial independence. This project grew out of a relationship that began in 2024 through ongoing financial wellness workshops and expanded into a broader, more holistic effort to remove barriers and build confidence.

The project officially launched on March 25, 2026, when a team of TFCU volunteers partnered with HopeHouse staff for a hands-on service day. Together, we created a permanent, size-inclusive professional clothing closet and provided participants with professional headshots, styling support, and access to career-readiness resources.

Beyond the event itself, Framing Legacy was designed to be sustainable. Grant funding supported the initial build-out of the closet and materials, while TFCU provided volunteer time and ongoing engagement. The clothing closet remains available to residents, giving them continued access to professional attire for interviews, court appearances, and other important moments as they move forward.

The impact extended far beyond tangible resources. Participants experienced increased confidence, dignity, and a sense of being seen and supported during a critical point in their lives. Feedback from HopeHouse staff highlighted that the project created not just a resource, but a meaningful, lasting experience that strengthened community, built trust, and empowered participants to take next steps toward employment and stability.

Framing Legacy also deepened TFCU’s partnership with HopeHouse, evolving from financial education into a more comprehensive, relationship-based approach to community support. The initiative addressed multiple development issues, including employment, financial inclusion, and access to opportunity, while creating a lasting resource that will continue to serve HopeHouse families well beyond the initial project timeline.