Our Genetic Legacy Inc

To equip underserved youth with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to document history, pursue economic mobility, and contribute to a more informed and inclusive future through technology and community-led preservation.

Our Genetic Legacy (OGL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young people—especially Black, Indigenous, and other youth of color—discover, preserve, and share their stories using cutting-edge technology and hands-on exploration.

We serve youth ages 14–24 in San Diego, Los Angeles, and partner communities across the U.S. and internationally. Many of our participants are first-generation college students, immigrant and refugee youth, system-impacted youth, or young people who have not always seen themselves reflected in history or STEM careers. Our work helps them see that they belong in both.

Our programs teach practical, future-focused skills, including:

• DNA and genealogy research
• drone flight and FAA certification
• underwater exploration and diving
• GIS mapping and 3D modeling
• digital storytelling and media creation

Youth use these skills to document family and community history and to build exhibits for our We The People Virtual Museum, ensuring that the stories of marginalized communities are preserved and made visible.

Just as importantly, we are a workforce pipeline. Participants move from training into internships, certifications, paid projects, and career pathways in drone technology, marine science, cultural heritage preservation, and related STEAM fields. The skills and certifications they earn prepare them for in-demand careers.

Our values are grounded in:

• community leadership – the people closest to the stories guide the work
• equity and inclusion – every young person deserves access to opportunity
• technology with purpose – tools that empower, not replace, human stories
• healing through history – knowing where you come from changes where you can go
• youth voice – young people are not just participants; they are creators and leaders

We believe that when young people have access to skills, mentorship, and opportunity, they don’t just learn history—they help rewrite it in ways that are more accurate, inclusive, and empowering for everyone.