One of the primary ways in which homes are lost in our communities is when there is no clear designation for the homes and no formal documents to distribute property (wills and other end of life documents). The Jackson Center addresses this in several ways:
- The Jackson Center works on a rolling basis with a network of pro-bono attorneys to coordinate and schedule wills and end-of-life document drafting for low-moderate income residents in Northside and Pine Knolls neighborhoods. In 2018-2019, 20 residents completed wills and other end-of-life documents through these efforts. Contact Kathy Atwater, kathy@jacksoncenter.info or 919-960-1670 to find out more.
- We have partnered with UNC’s Black Law Student Association, the UNC Center for Civil Rights, LegalAid, Capitol City Lawyers Association, and other local organizations to provide annual wills drafting clinics free of cost to qualifying residents. Over 70 local residents updated or completed new sets of end-of-life documents that help preserve the future of properties and allow residents to distinguish other important wishes for their future. Check back for the next wills clinic or contact us to be added to our interest list.
- The Jackson Center facilitates bi-weekly home preservation workshops called “Keeping Your House a Home” which share a wide range of tools and resources to retain and preserve homes and to ensure residents’ plans for their homes are secure. Contact us to sign up for a workshop!
- The Jackson Center connects residents to other legal support for property advocacy. This has included connecting residents to pro-bono attorneys who have helped residents navigate complex heirs issues, find organizations that can assist in foreclosure prevention or re-financing, or add specific restrictions to their own properties. Please be in touch with us if you have specific questions.
