Empowering Communities Through Purpose and Play

About Us

Change Before The Game (CBTG) was founded on a simple belief: sports and entertainment can do more than entertain—they can change lives.

Too often, young people in underserved communities see the game but not the opportunities behind it. CBTG exists to bridge that gap. We use sports as a gateway to education, mentorship, and life skills that prepare youth not only to play, but to lead, manage, and create.

Our approach blends hands-on training, academic support, and real-world experiences with sports professionals. From after-school programs, summer camps, leadership workshops and community events, we give young people the tools to succeed both on the field and in life.

At our core, we believe in three things: empowering youth, uplifting communities, and building a culture where every event leaves a lasting impact. By engaging families, mentors, and partners, CBTG turns sports into a platform for growth, opportunity, and sustainable change.

Play Without Limits

Change Before the Game, Inc. is committed to making sports more accessible for all youth by helping to cover the cost of essential expenses such as sporting equipment, uniforms, and participation fees. Through community partnerships and donor support, the organization is working toensure that financial barriers don’t prevent student-athletes from pursuing their passions, developing their skills, and experiencing the valuable lessons that come through teamwork and competition.

Sports as a Gateway

Sports are more than competition—they’re a starting point for opportunity. This pillar covers youth leagues, camps, clinics, and training that build discipline, teamwork, and confidence.

Education & Career Pathways

Preparing young people for life beyond the game. This includes tutoring, college readiness, career exploration, and specialized tracks like sports management, media, or coaching.

Leadership & Mentorship

Pairing youth with coaches, professionals, and community leaders who can guide their personal and professional growth. Programs might include mentorship networks, leadership academies, and life skills workshops.

Community Engagement & Empowerment

Using sports and entertainment as platforms to uplift entire communities. This includes family engagement, volunteer service, civic participation, and hosting events that bring people together.

Sustainable Impact & Fundraising

Turning events into engines of change. From fundraising campaigns at sporting events to partnerships with businesses, this pillar ensures CBTG has the resources to grow while modeling sustainability for youth.

Change Before the Game, Inc. Hosts Inaugural Fundraising Event

Birmingham, AL — October 17, 2025 — Change Before the Game, Inc. proudly hosted its inaugural fundraising event, the “3rd & 10 Day Party Mixer,” on Friday, October 17th.

The sports-based nonprofit selected the name “3rd & 10” to represent the third Saturday of the tenth month (October) — a date synonymous with the long-standing rivalry between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Tennessee Volunteers football teams.

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Community Day 2026

Spring 2026

Discover family and opportunity during our inaugural Community Day.

Featuiring College Recruiters / HBCUs / Divine 9 Organizations / Communty College / Career Tech / Job Opportunities / Mentor Matching / Non-Profit Fair / Food / Activities

Online Donations

Online donation opportunities are always open. We thank you for your support of Change Before the Game and it’s commuinty initiatives.

Founder + Board of Directors

Working Together To Create Better Communities

Founder/CEO

Radio veteran and marketing guru, Phaith began her media career in radio across several markets as a personality, producer, mix DJ, and marketing manager. Her experience also extends into professional sports and event marketing.

Board Member

A former media sales executive and now a technology trainer, Mr. Morris is a thoughtful community leader who is often found giving back to local schools and neighborhoods through volunteering and service.

Board Member

A banking industry consultant, Malaa McDaniel provides input and drives action on corporate volunteering, giving, and community initiatives, serving as a valuable asset to our mission and vision.

Board Member

A digital media entrepreneur and longtime nonprofit professional, Mr. Davis offers valuable perspective on nonprofit operations and supporting community needs through digital platforms.

Don’t Just Play … Give!

Please support our journey to empowering underserved youth through sports, education, mentorship, and community engagement.