Teen Advisory Panelists Alexa and Kali Holmes Weigh in on the #GameChanger Initiative

March 17, 2024 - Beaches Resorts - Kids Activities & Programs

Apart from their responsibilities for Beaches Resorts, TAP also works with the Sandals Foundation, the non - profit arm of Sandals Resorts International, which funds sustainable programs in the areas of education, community and environment which improve people’s lives and preserve our natural surroundings.

The Sandals Foundation and Wade’s World Foundation, three-time NBA Champion Dwyane Wade’s charitable organization, have joined forces to raise funds for Game Changer, an integrated sports program to benefit youth in underserved communities in South Florida and the Caribbean by giving them access to recreational programs that provide opportunities for them to reach their fullest potential.

The fundraising initiative entitled #GameChanger, which was created by TAP, was kicked off on Go Fund Me with the goal of raising $5,000 by early May. All monies raised by TAP for the #GameChanger Challenge will go towards giving underprivileged tweens and teens access to planned sports, recreation, a healthy lifestyle and family engagement in the Caribbean and South Florida.  It will also go towards upgrading and refurbishing multi-purpose sports courts as well as afternoon training and coaching sessions, sports equipment and apparel and mentoring.

Canadian TAP constituents, Alexa & Kali Holmes, were lucky enough to recently attend the D. Wade All Star Bowling Classic in Toronto, an annual fundraiser hosted by both The Wade’s World Foundation and The Sandals Foundation that supports the Game Changer Initiative.

In their own words, “Last month, the whole family hopped in the car, and we drove to Toronto for an exciting event --The D. Wade All-Star Bowling Classic.  On the coldest day of the year, we stood in a huge crowd surrounded by sports fans, fanatics and media.  We snapped a few pictures and watched as autographs were signed for many in the crowd. Then we had the exclusive and exciting opportunity to jump up on the stage and meet Dwyane Wade himself!  NBA All-Stars Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and the entire Sandals Foundation team had pulled off a one of kind event, and we were thrilled to be among the happy guests.  We felt very privileged to be part of such a special day.”

The sister duo went on to explain that “As active teens, we have had the opportunity to take swim lessons, we’re on gymnastics teams, cheer teams, volleyball teams and dance teams. For many of us, the best part of our week often revolves around the days we play sports, and we know some of our strongest friendships have been built through these activities.  We can’t imagine our lives without volleyball, without dance.”

Following a visit to Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa last year, which included outreach with the Sandals Foundation and more recently being a part of the charity event, they felt compelled to help to create a campaign to give others the same opportunities that come so easily to them.

Alexa and Kali explain that: “For many teens just like us, sports are just not an option. This is how the #GameChanger Challenge came into play. We feel the need to help! Wouldn't you like to help make sports or activities an option for others? Here’s your opportunity to make a difference!  Now is the time for us and all the #BeachesTeens to take on a new role and become a #GameChanger. Lets’s work together to make a difference “

Become a # GameChanger and join the Beaches Resorts’ TAP panel in their fundraising efforts. Every dollar will go to help empower youth through sports!

For more information or to donate to this worthy cause, visit www.gofundme.com/TAPgamechanger. Every dollar counts.