The Financial Wellness and Legacy Coaching Program is a trauma-informed, culturally responsive initiative designed to address the specific economic vulnerabilities and unique financial goals of Native Veterans, 2Sprit/LGBTQIA+ Veterans, Tribal Elders, and Seniors. This program moves beyond conventional financial literacy by integrating the principles of self-determination, intergenerational wealth preservation, and cultural continuity.

We recognize that historical policies, systemic barriers, and minority stress have created disproportionate financial challenges for these populations. Our coaching ensures dignity and confidentiality, empowering participants to navigate complex benefit systems, manage wealth, and secure their legacies with confidence.

Core Focus Areas

Our one-on-one and small-group coaching sessions are tailored to the intersectional identities of our participants, focusing on the following critical areas:

Benefits and Resource Navigation (Veteran & Elder Focus)

• VA and Tribal Benefits: Deep dive into accessing and maximizing military benefits (disability, education, housing) and coordinating with available Tribal, state, and federal elder/senior support programs.
• Healthcare Finance: Understanding Medicare, Medicaid, and Tribal health services (like IHS), managing out-of-pocket medical costs, and exploring long-term care planning options.
• Income Security: Guidance on Social Security optimization, pension planning, and navigating employment after military service or into retirement.

Legacy and Intergenerational Planning (Tribal Elder Focus)

• Estate Planning for Sovereignty: Customized support for creating wills, trusts, and advance directives, recognizing the unique laws and succession issues concerning trust land, traditional assets, and cultural artifacts.
• Wealth Transfer: Strategies for intergenerational wealth transfer that support family and community without compromising current stability.
• Digital Legacy: Planning for the management and transfer of digital accounts and assets.

Debt Management and Credit Resilience

• Debt Reduction: Developing personalized, low-stress strategies for managing consumer debt, medical debt, and predatory lending practices, with a focus on predatory loan awareness common in vulnerable populations.
• Credit Building/Repair: Cultivating healthy credit habits to access favorable rates for housing or business development.
• Housing Stability: Navigating homeownership options (VA loans, Tribal housing programs) and managing mortgages or rental agreements to ensure security.

Specialized Two-Spirit/LGBTQIA+ Native and Veterans of Color Financial Planning

• Legal Protections: Reviewing legal documents to ensure assets and benefits are secured for partners or chosen family, which is especially critical for individuals who may not have legal marital recognition or familial support.
• Gender-Affirming Care Costs: Planning for the short- and long-term costs associated with gender transition or maintenance.
• Employment Equity: Addressing potential income gaps or discrimination effects through specialized career and financial management techniques.

Cultural Competency and Delivery Model

• Trauma-Informed Approach: All coaches are trained in culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care, recognizing historical and systemic oppression that impacts financial health. The process prioritizes the participant’s emotional safety and dignity.
• Respect for Community Structure: Coaching acknowledges and respects the collective community and familial structures within Tribal life, allowing for consultations that include family members or community liaisons where appropriate and desired by the participant.
• Flexible Delivery: Services are offered in various modalities—in-person at Tribal centers, virtually via secure platforms, and over the phone—to accommodate geographical, mobility, and privacy needs.

Desired Impact

By providing tailored, expert guidance, this program aims to:

Enhance Dignity: Provide a safe, non-judgmental space where participants feel seen, respected, and valued throughout their financial journey.

Increase Stability: Reduce debt and increase savings rates, leading to greater financial confidence and reduced daily stress.

Preserve Legacy: Ensure the secure transfer of wealth, land, and cultural knowledge to future generations.

Foster Self-Determination: Empower participants to make informed financial decisions aligned with their personal, cultural, and spiritual values, reinforcing long-term financial sovereignty.