About Us

Guardians of Generations

The 81 Legacy Keepers Foundation is a family-centered nonprofit inspired organization by the life and legacy of Josette Dugans, grandmother of our Founder Ron Dugans Sr. Her unwavering love, strength, and selflessness serve as the heart of our mission—to uplift and honor the grandparents and kinship caregivers who stand in the gap to raise the next generation.

We call them our Legacy Keepers—everyday heroes whose devotion keeps families together, nurtures identity, and strengthens communities.

Honoring the Past
Empowering the Present
‍Building the Future

What We Believe

At the 81 Legacy Keepers Foundation, we believe that every child deserves a stable, loving home—and that families built through kinship care are sacred. When grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, or older siblings take on the role of caregiver, they preserve a family’s story. They carry the wisdom of generations while shaping the future of their children and communities.

What is a GrandFamily?

A GrandFamily is a household where children are being raised by grandparents, great-grandparents, or relatives such as aunts, uncles, or older siblings. These families ensure children remain connected to their heritage while receiving love, stability, and guidance.

Our Mission

To uplift, equip, and celebrate grandparents and kinship caregivers by providing the tools, recognition, and opportunities they need to raise thriving children and build lasting legacies.

Our Vision

We envision a world where every GrandFamily is celebrated, supported, and empowered as vital leaders in their families and communities—ensuring generational healing, purpose, and hope.

Our Core Values

Advocacy

Standing in the gap for GrandFamilies.

Empowerment

Providing tools and resources for growth.

Faith

Believing in God’s guidance and the power of love.

Legacy

Honoring the past while building the future.

Respect

Uplifting the dignity and wisdom of GrandFamilies.

Service

Leading with compassion and action.

Our Founding Story

When Ron Dugans Sr. founded 81 Legacy Keepers, he did so in tribute to the sacrifices and strength of his grandmother, Josette Dugans, whose love shaped generations. Her example became the foundation for a movement that recognizes and uplifts families like hers—families who quietly hold their communities together through faith, perseverance, and unconditional love.

Josette Dugans

Founded by

Ron Dugans Sr.

Ron Dugans Sr. is a former NFL wide receiver, respected collegiate coach, and devoted community leader whose life’s work reflects a deep commitment to mentorship, education, and family legacy. A native of Tallahassee, Florida, Dugans made his mark on the football field at Florida State University, where he played under legendary coach Bobby Bowden and helped lead the Seminoles to a national championship in 1999. His success on the field earned him selection in the 2000 NFL Draft, launching a professional career that included time with the Cincinnati Bengals, and Houston Texans.

Ron Dugans Sr.

After his playing career, Dugans transitioned into coaching, shaping young athletes across several major collegiate programs including Florida State University, the University of Miami, the University of Georgia, and the University of South Florida. Known for his integrity, passion for player development, and unwavering belief in character before performance, Dugans has influenced countless athletes both on and off the field.

In 2024, Ron founded the 81 Legacy Keepers Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering “GrandFamilies” and fostering intergenerational connections through mentorship, education, wellness, and community engagement. Inspired by his own family’s values and jersey number 81, the foundation honors the power of legacy — helping youth, families, and communities build stronger futures together.

Whether on the sidelines or in the community, Ron Dugans Sr. continues to live his purpose: to inspire others to lead, learn, and leave a legacy that lasts.

Together, We Build Legacies

Through our programs, advocacy, and community partnerships, 81 Legacy Keepers Foundation provides direct support to caregivers and youth alike.

We create pathways for healing, education, financial empowerment, and leadership development—ensuring that both generations have the tools to thrive.

“We are the keepers of legacies—the bridge between yesterday’s wisdom and tomorrow’s promise.”

- 81 legacy keepers foundation