Legacy is a uniquely Australian charity dedicated to the care of widows and dependants of deceased war veterans, as well as those families of Australian Defence Force personnel killed on hazardous service or peacekeeping operations.
Legacy was originally founded in 1923 by a small group of World War One veterans. Returned servicemen banded together nationally, and eventually took up a legacy of care for the welfare of the wives and children of their comrades who were killed during the war, or died subsequently. Legacy has met that commitment for the past 84 years and continues to deliver assistance to the families of deceased Defence personnel - from World War One through to today's peacekeeping mission across the world.
Throughout Australia Legacy's services are provided to more than 122,000 widows and 1,800 children and special needs dependents. It is provided by more than 5,800 members (called Legatees) through 49 Clubs Australia-wide.
Legacy's services include funding for special housing, medical support, financial assistance, advocacy, social support, and assistance for children's education. Many Clubs encourage social activities for older widows and sponsor children activities, such as Junior Legatee, and Mother & Child camps. For the past 12 years, Legacy has also been proudly running the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award, a national award to promote communication skills and youth confidence.
The key element in Legacy's service is the personal contact that Legatees have with the widows and children (Junior Legatees) they are assigned to look after, to ensure families receive the variety of support Legacy is able to provide. In many circumstances Legatees also fulfil a special role as a mentor for children.
To the extent practicable, Legacy makes initial contact with dependants soon after bereavement and endeavours to ensure that widows and children receive compassionate assistance which relates to their special individual situations.
Legacy welcomes the public's interest in volunteering for Legacy's activities or fundraising events throughout the year, such as our national fundraising drive Legacy Week held in the first week of September. You can also become actively involved with Legacy by becoming a Legatee, this is open to people of diverse backgrounds and is possible by simply contacting your local Legacy Club. As well as assisting delegated widows and children in their local area, Legatees also meet regularly for social camaraderie and networking. Alternatively you can visit our website or contact your local Legacy Club to find out about local fundraising activities during Legacy Week and ANZAC Day. For more information please call 1800 LEGACY (534 229) or visit www.legacy.com.au
