About Us
A veteran-led movement giving young people what every child deserves.
Our Story
Sovereign Legacy Initiative was founded by Teddy S. Everidge, a U.S. Army veteran who grew up without the care, affection, guidance, protection, and opportunities every child needs. He started SLI to give the youth of Lea County what he never had — steady mentors, a code to live by, and someone in their corner who refuses to give up on them.
What began as one veteran's promise has grown into a structured youth leadership organization serving young people ages 13–18 across Hobbs and Lea County, New Mexico. SLI is more than a program — it is a movement that meets youth where they are and walks with them toward who they can become. By investing in character today, we build stronger families, safer communities, and a brighter future for Lea County tomorrow.
Nonprofit Status
Sovereign Legacy Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity, incorporated in the State of New Mexico. Donations to SLI are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and measurable impact — annual reports document our outcomes for participants, families, and supporters.
Leadership
Teddy S. Everidge
Founder & Chairman
A U.S. Army veteran and Hobbs, New Mexico community leader, Teddy founded Sovereign Legacy Initiative to break negative cycles for the next generation. He leads SLI's vision, community partnerships, and commitment to Lea County youth — bringing military discipline, lived experience, and an unshakable belief that every young person can build a legacy worth leaving.
Community Roots
SLI works side by side with schools and educators, detention centers, CYFD, juvenile justice partners, churches and mentors, local businesses, mental health providers, and community organizations across Lea County. Our community improvement projects put youth shoulder-to-shoulder with the neighbors they're learning to serve.