Two remarkable DC teens are taking matters into their own hands to uplift families and build brighter futures across the region. Jordan Edmunds Young, a sophomore at Bishop McNamara High School, and Jalen Wallace, a freshman at St. John’s College High School, received their first $5000 pledge from the Infinite Legacy Organ Donor Procurement Organization to support children and families in the DMV.
The 1818 Legacy Project was created to honor the lives and legacies of two brothers, Leon Anthony Edmunds and Malcolm Adrian Edmunds, Sr., who were born and passed approximately 18 months apart. Their story of perseverance, service, and love inspired their great-niece and granddaughter Jordan Edmunds Young and a close family friend Jalen Wallace to continue that legacy by bringing light to families facing hardship, loss, and uncertainty.
“Our goal is to shed light during dark times,” said Jordan Edmunds Young. “We want to help families who’ve lost loved ones, jobs, or stability by creating opportunities for hope and growth.”
Jordan embodies the spirit of leadership and service. She is a Student Council Cabinet Member, a Language Immersion Student preparing to travel to Costa Rica in Summer 2026, and a Cybersecurity and Defense Internship with Microsoft, Amazon, the CIA, and the FBI.
Jalen Wallace is an Under Armour All-American Freshman Defensive Back at St. John’s College High School, ranked #1 in DC #2 in the state of Maryland, with three Division 1 offers to Auburn, Maryland and Syracuse. His discipline, teamwork, and drive extend beyond the field — fueling his dedication to mentorship and community outreach.
Together, Jordan and Jalen are turning purpose into action through the 1818 Legacy Project, their advocacy and partnership with Infinite Legacy, Center City Alum, and Hart Middle School to fund initiatives that directly support students and families in the DMV area:
- The Malcolm Adrian Edmunds, Sr. Legacy of Purpose Scholarship – provides gap funding for a graduating high school senior who demonstrates compassion and advocacy for organ donation.
- The Leon Anthony Edmunds Legacy of Leadership Scholarship – covers tuition for a rising high school sophomore or junior to attend the Leadership Initiative Internship at Georgetown University, where students gain real-world experience and leadership training in Artificial Intelligence and Medical Innovation, Advanced Law and Justice Reform or Cybersecurity and Defense.
- The Annual Toy Drive, powered by Jayvon McFadden, a Center City Alum and current Ohio State University freshman, ensures that children in need experience the joy of the season.
- The Annual Food Insecurity Campaign, led by Jordan and Jalen, distributes food packages to Center City and Hart Middle School families during spring break, when many children who depend on school meals need extra support.
“This project is about continuing a legacy of giving and creating brighter futures,” said Jalen Wallace. “We’re proving that young people can lead with purpose and compassion.”
The 1818 Legacy Project not only honors two extraordinary men but also empowers the next generation to lead through service, compassion, and love.
