Help Restore the Change Center After Break-In

Help Us Rebuild the Change Center After a Break-In

Last night, someone broke into the Change Center Mentoring Group—an organization I founded to give boys ages 10–17 in our community a safe space for growth, guidance, and hope.

They stole computers, gaming systems, and caused serious damage to my office. But the most heartbreaking part is knowing that someone tried to tear down something built to lift others up.

Thankfully, no one was hurt. And for that, I’m grateful. I’m also incredibly thankful for the swift response from the Forest Park Police Department, who are actively investigating this.

But now—we need your help.

The Change Center has always been a labor of love. It’s where young men learn discipline, leadership, financial literacy, and most importantly—how to believe in themselves.

We’re launching this GoFundMe campaign to:

Replace stolen equipment

Repair damages to the facility

Strengthen our security system

Continue providing life-changing programming for at-risk youth

This is a setback, but I believe every setback is a setup for a comeback. With your support, we can bounce back stronger and show our boys that even in hardship, community always rises.

Here’s an itemized list of some of the things take and the cost to replace. If you would like to donate the items instead that would also be helpful: 

Xbox 360 (1) $250 

Xbox One (2)$350 

 2 iMacs $1200 each 

 3 Macbook pros $1300 each 

 Video mixer black magic $2300 

HD Camera $900 

 Oculus (2) $250 each

 iPad apple $500 

Asus laptop - $350 

2 Nintendo switch - $300 each 

 PS5 (2) -$500 each

Please give what you can and share this campaign. We won’t stop the mission—we’re just getting started.

Thank you for standing with us.

– Duane Thomas

Founder & Director, The Change Center Mentoring Group