RENTON, Wash. – The Seahawks announced today the 2024 Game Changers Program presented by BECU, a program that engages youth and teens through interactive leadership development activities and discussions. The Seahawks, Boys & Girls Clubs of King County and BECU will collaborate on the multi-week educational program aimed at inspiring the next generation of Game Changers in our community.
The Game Changers curriculum is designed and facilitated by RISE, a national nonprofit that educates and empowers the sports community to eliminate racial discrimination, champion social justice and improve race relations.
"The Seahawks are committed to educating and inspiring the next generation, and the Game Changers program is designed to do just that," said Mario Bailey, Seahawks Vice President of Community Engagement & Legends. "We are proud to partner with RISE, the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, and BECU, to provide these youth with the unique opportunity to discuss important topics and build vital leadership skills that will empower them to be the future leaders in our community."
Weekly discussion topics from the RISE curriculum will include:
- Session 1: Identity Wheel
- Session 2: Empathy
- Session 3: Conflict Resolution
- Session 4: Sport as a Vehicle for Change
- Session Five: Community Building: Build a Tower
- Session Six: Be a Champion of Change
New this season, the program will include a field trip to BECU's corporate headquarters in Tukwila, Wash. Youth will receive a facility tour and participate in a financial reality fair, where they will navigate different scenarios and make financial decisions to live within the means of a persona. BECU will also award two youth with $2,500 scholarships as part of the program.
The program will conclude with a special Seahawks gameday experience for participants at the Seahawks vs. L.A. Rams game on November 3.
"Working to empower young leaders from the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County as a part of the Seattle Seahawks Game Changers program is a highlight of our year at RISE," said RISE Chief Program Officer, Andrew Mac Intosh. "This year's program promises to be the best yet, including a peer mentorship structure along with meaningful conversations and activities. We can't wait to learn from the participants in this year's program and to help them continue to grow as Game Changers throughout Seattle and beyond."
For more information, visit seahawks.com/gamechangers.
ABOUT BECU
As a member-owned credit union, BECU is focused on helping increase the financial well-being of its members and communities through great rates, few fees, community partnerships and financial education. For more information, visit www.becu.org.
The Seahawks held their first session of the Game Changers program at Lumen Field on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The Game Changers program provides leadership cultivation opportunities and racial equity workshops to 50 Boys & Girls Club students.