‎About

The Team:

Dennis Grimes

(Primary Genealogist):

Dennis helps Native individuals discover their tribal history through written records and oral traditions, supporting disenrolled Native people in reclaiming their citizenship and restoring tribal enrollment.

He began learning genealogy in 1997 alongside his grandmother and other tribal elders of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians.

Dennis served as a Genealogy Data Entry Clerk (Feb 18, 1999 – Jan 2006) with the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians (Acjachemen Nation), Petition 84-A , under Chairpersons Jean Frietze and Damien Shilo.

He has helped multiple families enroll in their respective tribes.

Dennis is a Certified Genealogist (February 2026), credentialed by International Association of Professions Career College in Portland, Oregon, United States and Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and has been a member of the International Association of Professional Genealogists since February 2026.

He specializes in Southern California genealogy, with a focus on Mission records and related territorial archives, bringing 29 years of experience in the field.

AMY CONTRERAS HANCOCK

(DNA GENEALOGIST/RESEARCH ASSISTANT):

Amy is a DNA genealogist, wife, and mother of three.

She is passionate about uncovering and reconnecting people.

As a California native and granddaughter of a Californio family, she values the importance of heritage and identity.

Through DNA research and story-telling, Amy perserves family legacies and ensures that treasured stories are passed on to future generations.

Matthew Heiden

(WebMASTER):

Currently pursuing multiple certifications in Computer Science, Information Technology, Web Development, and Web Design.

Our Mission:

Our mission is to uncover and preserve family histories through rigorous genealogical research and thoughtful analysis. We are dedicated to helping individuals connect with their ancestral roots by utilizing a wide range of historical records, archival resources, and personal interviews. Through the creation of accurate and meaningful family trees and narratives, we strive to bring each client’s heritage to life, fostering a deeper understanding of identity and lineage. We are committed to guiding every client with integrity, professionalism, and care throughout their journey of discovery.