Our Story

Imagine waking up one day to find your life has been hijacked by someone else. That was our harsh reality when we discovered my wife's identity had been stolen.

The Incident: 
In 2022, the IRS blindsided us by placing our tax return on hold due to alleged under-reporting. Despite our confidence in our filings, we appealed. The truth was chilling: an unknown individual had fraudulently received over $18,000 in unemployment benefits using my wife's identity.

The Fallout: 
Our world collapsed overnight. We lost our business vehicles, our beloved 1987 Foxbody, and our financial standing. Our credit score tanked, leaving us to depend on the kindness of others, living a nomadic life with hopes pinned on a tax return that never came."

Realization: "During our struggle, it became evident that identity theft wasn't just our problem; it was rampant, especially in times of economic upheaval. We couldn't wait for systemic fixes.

Relocation and Renewal: 
Seeking a fresh start, we moved from New Jersey to Oklahoma. Here, life is more affordable, the community is vibrant, and there's room to breathe. Oklahoma's schools and lifestyle have been a revelation, especially to someone like me, who knows the system from the ground up.

Growth in Oklahoma: 
Over the past two years, Oklahoma has nurtured us back to health, providing shelter through various support mechanisms. I've gained new skills, and now I see a path to not just personal stability but community enhancement.

The Birth of 'For The Community': 
Reflecting on how to give back, 'For The Community' (FTC) was conceived. Oklahoma, despite receiving significant government funding for housing and development, still faces gaps in community needs.

Current Government Assistance Overview:
  • Native American Block Grants: $102 million for housing and infrastructure improvements.
  • Low-Income Housing Funds: $40 million for housing aid.
  • Community Development Block Grants: Over $40 million for community enhancement in low-income areas.
  • Oklahoma Housing Stability Program: $40 million to assist with home purchases.
  • Section 8 Vouchers: Rent subsidies ensuring tenants pay no more than 40% of their income.
  • Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants: Up to $50,000 in combined assistance for home maintenance.

The Role of FTC:
  • Enhancing Self-Sufficiency: "FTC aims to reduce future reliance on these programs by fostering skills for independence."
  • Community Involvement: "Mobilizing local talent to uplift neighborhoods, decreasing the dependence on external funding."
  • Educational Outreach: "Empowering with the knowledge to maximize government aid benefits."
  • Preventive Measures: "Educating on identity theft and financial management to prevent future crises."
  • Innovation and Efficiency: "FTC will innovate to ensure each dollar of aid is utilized to its maximum potential.

Support FTC to:
  • Amplify Impact: Stretch further the benefits of existing programs.
  • Create Jobs: Utilize skill-sharing for local employment.
  • Advocate for Independence: Influence policy towards sustainable self-reliance.
Conclusion: 

FTC isn't just about aid; it's about transformation. From our personal adversity, we're building a community-focused initiative. While our quest to rectify the identity theft continues, we're committed to turning our struggle into a community's strength.