Survivors for Change

Overview

Surivors for Change is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the safety and well-being of young athletes in sports, particularly focusing on the hockey community. The organization was founded by Michael Sacks in 2020 with the mission of revolutionizing sports safety education and promoting healthy relationships among players, parents, and coaches.

Founding Background

Michael Sacks, the founder, was a victim of sexual abuse by a youth hockey coach when he was a teenager. This experience drives his commitment to preventing similar abuses and ensuring accountability within sports institutions. Sacks teamed up with Kelly Gee, also a survivor of similar abuse, to establish the organization. Gee serves as the Executive Director and has led efforts to create a culture of safety and support within sports environments.

Mission and Activities

Survivors for Change aims to create a safer environment for young athletes by advocating for survivors, providing peer support, and developing comprehensive education and training programs. Their approach emphasizes holistic youth development and the importance of strong relationships among coaches, players, and parents. The organization is particularly noted for its work in the hockey community, where systemic-level change is a primary goal.

Partnerships and Programs

In 2025, Survivors for Change partnered with the University of Kentucky's College of Social Work to enhance youth hockey safety. This collaboration includes developing innovative training programs such as "Navigators," which focuses on building trust and effective communication among coaches, players, and parents. The program initially targets youth hockey coaches and will expand to include parents and players.

Financial Overview

As of available data, Survivors for Change has reported revenues of up to $180,000, with expenses around $60,500, and holds total assets of approximately $119,000[5]. The organization operates with zero liabilities.

Leadership

• Michael Sacks: Founder & Chairman
• Kelly Gee: Executive Director

Impact

Survivors for Change has gained recognition for its efforts in promoting accountability and change within sports institutions. The organization's work has been instrumental in uncovering and addressing predatory behaviors in youth sports, leading to significant actions against abusers. Through its partnerships and programs, it continues to advocate for safer and more supportive sports environments.

[1] https://www.survivorsforchange.org [2] https://covidsurvivorsforchange.org/about/ [3] https://socialwork.uky.edu/uk-social-work-partners-with-survivors-for-change-to-enhance-youth-hockey-safety/ [4] https://covidsurvivorsforchange.org/survivor-resources/ [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/853199614