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Kelly McCoy

The Journey Back is the Way Forward | African American & Multi-Cultural Family History |
Roots To Return
Founder & Principal
Issaquah
United States
 


  • DNA
  • Family History Research
  • Other Speciality

  • DNA
  • Ethnicity / Religion
  • Family History Research

  • Event / Reunion / Travel Planning

Understanding where you come from is just as important as knowing who you are, and is the key to understanding your family's legacy.

With over 20 years of experience in genealogical research and ancestral trip planning, as well as 10 years of developing cultural heritage tours, I founded Roots to Return. A service designed to help individuals, families, and communities unearth their roots, reclaim ancestral stories, and reconnect with the places and cultures that shaped them. My expertise lies in exploring diverse, multi-cultural backgrounds, with a particular focus on Black diasporic ancestry and history in the Midwest and Western United States.

Guided by a passion for historical research and storytelling, I provide meticulous, accurate, and compassionate support to those seeking to understand and preserve their family heritage. Whether collaborating with clients or industry partners, I strive to bridge the gap between history and family, empowering self-discovery and generational inspiration through research, narrative, and ancestry travel.  At Roots To Return, collaboration is key to my work. I am committed to expanding collective knowledge and ensuring that our rich, diverse histories are documented, celebrated, and preserved for future generations.

Ready to start uncovering your first ancestral clue?
Embark on a transformative genealogy journey with Roots To Return, or collaborate on a project with me. Together, we can illuminate heritage, inspire meaningful connections across generations, and collaborate to uncover roots, celebrate diverse histories, and ensure every story finds its voice. 


North America 
Midwest & Western States 
North Carolina
South Carolina 
Florida 

  • 21st Century
  • 20th Century
  • 19th Century

  • Board Certified Genealogist (BCG) Webinar: "The One Place Study" by Denise Cross, CG, MSLIS - June 2025
  • Midwest African American Genealogy Institute: Track 3 Intermediate Genealogy- Pre and Post Slavery Era Research - July 2024 

  • African American Historical & Genealogical Society (AAHGS)
  • Kansas African American Historical & Genealogical Society (KAAHGS)
  • Association of Professional Genealogists (APG)
  • Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
  • Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)