On July 7, 2024, Kathy’s Legacy celebrated its 10 year anniversary. Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director, Ginny Scharbarth, reflects on the past 10 years…
After the murder of our daughter, Kathy, my husband and I became the legal guardians of our granddaughter, Madison. Through her eyes I learned the effects of trauma on children and quickly realized there was no support system or tracking of children orphaned by domestic violence homicide. Concerned about the long-term consequences, I had the strong desire to help other families who experienced a similar tragedy. Ten years ago, I founded Kathy’s Legacy knowing if we assist just one child, we would have made a difference in Kathy’s memory.
Today, I am humbled and honored to serve these loving families and witness the positive impact Kathy’s Legacy has on victims of domestic violence murder. We meet our families amid extreme heartbreak and listen to their unique stories. As they begin their grief journey, Kathy’s Legacy asks, “How can we help?” We assure them they are not alone and we will always be there for them. Through our Silver Lining program, we provide monthly funds for food and gas, host fun family outings, funding for extracurricular activities, and unexpected, emergency expenses, and more.
We continue to ask “How can we help?” by serving domestic abuse victims with pets. Most victims delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot bring their pets with them to a domestic violence shelter. This inspired us to create our Lady’s Legacy program. By offering a long-term housing option for pets of victims, victims have the opportunity to receive the services they need to put them on their way to safety and a new beginning. Thank you for being the reason we have never turned away a family over the past 10 years!
