About – TLG Foundation

The dual purpose of TLG Foundation is:

Advancing Support for Veterans: To provide comprehensive support for veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life and pursue successful careers. This includes, but is not limited to, career advancement initiatives, educational opportunities, addressing employment and underemployment challenges, and offering resources to aid in workforce reintegration. Additionally, TLG Foundation will explore and implement other programs or partnerships designed to empower veterans to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Promoting Financial Literacy in Underserved Communities: To enhance financial literacy and economic empowerment in underserved populations by offering educational workshops, creating and distributing resources, and providing grants to individuals or organizations dedicated to advancing financial education. The foundation aims to equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve financial stability and independence.

TLG Foundation

TLG Foundation is dedicated to building stronger, more resilient communities by focusing on two core initiatives. First, we honor and support those who have served by providing veterans with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in civilian life. From career-advancement programs and educational scholarships to employment resources and mentorship, our veteran initiatives are designed to smooth the transition home and unlock new professional pathways.

Second, we believe that financial knowledge is the cornerstone of lasting empowerment. That’s why we offer workshops, digital toolkits, and grant funding to individuals and organizations working to improve financial literacy in underserved neighborhoods. By equipping people with clear, practical guidance on budgeting, credit management, and wealth-building strategies, we help pave the way to economic stability and independence for families across our city and beyond.

Our Four Pillars

At TLG Foundation, we partner with community leaders, nonprofits, and educational institutions to deliver high-impact programming. Whether you’re a veteran charting a new course or a community member striving for financial security, we’re here to provide support, resources, and a pathway to a brighter future.

Veteran Empowerment

The TLG Foundation is committed to supporting veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. We provide career advancement programs, educational opportunities, mentorship, and employment resources to ensure veterans have the tools and support they need to succeed in the workforce and achieve personal fulfillment.

financial literacy

We believe financial knowledge is essential to long-term empowerment. Through workshops, digital toolkits, and targeted grants, we educate individuals and communities in financial management, budgeting, credit, and wealth-building strategies, promoting economic stability and independence for underserved populations.

Community Engagement

TLG Foundation actively partners with local community leaders, nonprofits, and educational institutions to deliver impactful programs that strengthen communities. Our initiatives foster collaboration and provide resources tailored to the unique needs of each neighborhood, building a stronger, more resilient society.

Access to Resources

We prioritize the accessibility of essential resources, whether through educational scholarships, financial tools, or reintegration support. Our goal is to ensure that all individuals, especially veterans and underserved communities, have access to the opportunities and services necessary to thrive and achieve long-term success.

FOUNDER AND CEO

Eugene 'Gene' Lee

Eugene Lee is the driving force behind TLG Development LLC and its sister company, TLG Management LLC—both minority- and veteran-owned firms dedicated to revitalizing Chicago’s South Side through strategic property acquisition, hands-on management, and thoughtful community investment. An 11-year U.S. Army combat veteran, Eugene served as an Infantryman, Cavalry Scout, Bradley Fighting Vehicle Commander, and Field Artillery Section Chief, including a deployment to Ghazni Province, Afghanistan (2011–12) where he earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. His military career instilled in him discipline, resilience, and a mission-first mindset that now fuels both his business leadership and civic engagement.

Raised on Detroit’s East Side without early access to financial education, Eugene struggled to navigate credit, savings, and wealth-building—challenges shared by many in underserved neighborhoods. Discovering the power of reading and self-education, he mastered personal finance principles and turned to real estate as a vehicle for generational wealth creation. By bootstrapping TLG to $5 million in assets under management—without outside investors—he has proven that strategic vision and relentless perseverance can overcome systemic barriers.

Beyond his real estate ventures, Eugene is committed to empowering fellow veterans and underserved communities. Through TLG Foundation, he champions veteran career reintegration and financial literacy initiatives, and he serves on the Chicago Department of Housing Advisory Committee on Renters’ Rights. Whether in boardrooms or classrooms, Eugene Lee’s personal journey—from combat zones to community revival—drives his mission to create opportunity, equity, and long-term prosperity for all.

TLG Foundation Legal Statement

TLG Foundation is an Illinois non-profit corporation (incorporated 10/15/2023) and is recognized as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (EIN: 33-1516474). Contributions to TLG Foundation are deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. Our registered office is located at 5444 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60609. No goods or services were provided in exchange for contributions, unless otherwise noted; where applicable, a good-faith estimate of the value of any such benefits will be provided. To obtain a copy of our IRS determination letter, Form 990, or financial reports, please contact us at info@tlgcares.org.

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