Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Thomas.
Hi Jamie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi! Thank you so much for this opportunity. I’m Jamie Thomas. My journey has been shaped by both life’s challenges and a deep desire to make a difference. One of the most defining moments in my life was the loss of my daughter Tierra, which led me to start the Tierra J. Chambers Legacy Foundation.
Through this experience, I’ve grown stronger, more purpose-driven, and passionate about supporting others who’ve faced unimaginable loss—especially children. I’m grateful to be able to share more about who I am and what drives me.
The Tierra J. Chambers Legacy Foundation Inc. (TJC Legacy Foundation) was born out of deep pain, love, and my desire to make a difference. In April 2018, my daughter, Tierra, was tragically killed by a drunk and drugged driver. That moment changed my life forever. Tierra was a beautiful, ambitious young woman, and most importantly, a loving mother to her son, Makai.
In the midst of my grieving, I knew I couldn’t let Tierra’s memory fade into just a tragedy. I wanted to create something that would honor her legacy and uplift others who have faced similar heartbreak. That’s how the idea for the TJC Legacy Foundation came to life.
We officially launched the foundation on April 18, 2025, what would have been Tierra’s 33rd birthday. Our mission is to support children who have lost a parent due to a tragedy, especially those impacted by crime. Through community programs, school supply drives, emotional support, and financial assistance, we aim to bring healing, hope, and a sense of belonging to these children and their families.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting the TJC Legacy Foundation came from a place of deep pain. Losing my beautiful firstborn so suddenly and in such a tragic way was heartbreaking. There were days when the grief felt too heavy to even get out of bed, let alone start a foundation.
One of my biggest struggles has been finding the strength to turn my pain into purpose. I had to figure out how to actually start a nonprofit, how to stay organized, and how to spread the word about our cause. There have been times when I felt unsure or didn’t know where to begin.
Another challenge has been getting support and resources. As a new foundation, it takes time to build relationships and find people who are willing to help. But every donation, every kind word, every child we help – keeps me going.
This journey is hard, but it’s also healing. Even in the midst of loss, I keep reminding myself why I started. My daughter’s memory and my grandson’s future give me the strength to keep going. Each step, no matter how hard, is not just for me, but for others we hope to help.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Before starting the foundation, I’ve spent the past 6 years volunteering for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). I am deeply involved in victim advocacy, offering support to families going through the pain of losing a loved one. I’ve also led several fundraising efforts to help MADD continue their lifesaving work. In March 2024, I was honored to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from MADD for my fundraising efforts of $15.000, which meant so much to me. That recognition reminded me that even through grief, I can make a lasting impact.
What sets my work apart is that it comes straight from the heart. This isn’t just a cause to me, it’s personal. It has my daughter’s name attached to it. I’m living through the pain and turning it into purpose. I’m most proud of being able to take something so tragic and use it to bring hope and healing to others. That’s what keeps me going every single day.
“Tierra’s Legacy, Their Strength, Our Purpose”
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my family, especially my surviving children and of course my grandson Makai. They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders and my reason for pushing forward, even on the hardest days.
They remind me of my “why” – why Tierra should always be remembered, and why this foundation means so much to us. When the grief feels heavy or the work gets overwhelming, they are the ones that lift me up. They are my motivation.
Their strength gives me strength, and their belief in this cause keeps me grounded. This isn’t something I’ve done alone, it’s been a family journey, and I’m so grateful for their love and support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tjclegacyfoundation.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tjclegacyfoundation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575104230484
- Other: https://givebutter.com/supportTJC
Image Credits
Jamie Thomas
