FACILITATORS ARE THE KEY TO SUCCESS
Facilitators are the backbone of the Get In the Game program. Facilitators don’t teach— they mentor and provide support for students. They foster a welcoming and judgment-free environment. They help GameChangers to find their voice and navigate the rich but sometimes difficult conversations, and they empower students to find the courage to be true GameChangers. Facilitators are perpetuating a never-ending cycle of kindness, empathy, dignity, and diversity. Facilitators help the GameChangers to change the world through service to their community, and we couldn’t be more grateful for all they do.
Being a Facilitator Means Having a Safe-Space To Talk With Your Students About Real Top-of-Mind Issues
2024 Facilitator of the Year
Sam Heron
Sam Heron, the Facilitator of the Year, is recognized for his deep commitment to social justice and racial equity, which has been a cornerstone of his decade-long career in education. As a teacher at Campus International School in Cleveland, Sam has profoundly impacted his students and peers through his passion for history and dedication to honest storytelling.
Sam's involvement with the "Get in the Game" program, where he has been instrumental for the past two seasons, has not only enhanced the program but has also helped shape students into better citizens and agents of change. His remarkable ability to connect with students and foster a deeper understanding of systemic issues makes him an exemplary facilitator, deserving of this prestigious recognition. Sam's impact is felt far beyond the classroom, as he continues to inspire those around him with his passion, dedication, and love for making a meaningful difference in the world.
2023 Facilitator of the Year
Ashley Raper
Ashley Raper is the Special Assistant to the President for Special Projects at Guilford College . She joined the GITG team in 2021. She is a proven innovator, deeply passionate educator and fantastic fundraiser. Her work in Greensboro began at the Garden Friends School in 2005 while also serving as the school's first Athletic Director.
She is the ultimate giver and we are beyond happy to have her in the GITG Family. Ashley stays in touch with our GameChangers, even after they leave her classroom. In 2022, she assured that one of them was able to make a dream come true by bringing her to meet Venus Williams. This was months after she had spoken to this young woman.
Beyond her volunteer work with Get In The Game, Ashley and her husband, Jon – who also works with our GamesChangers, founded a consulting firm in 2020 focused on helping Quaker educational institutions across the country create plans and structures to engage each school’s students and community in Quaker practices while also developing strategies to increase their fundraising revenue.
She has provided dozens of Gamechangers with mentorship and kindness in a supportive and loving way. Her commitment to making a difference in the Greensboro community is unparallel and we cannot wait to see how much KEDD this amazing woman spreads!
We Help Facilitators Be The Best They Can Be For Their GameChangers
Having authentic, rewarding, and sometimes difficult conversations with young people is not always easy - which is why we are committed to being there for our facilitators. We provide concise training, a detailed facilitator playbook, and suggestions throughout the season on how to create and keep an honest and encouraging environment.