About Game Time Non-Profit In Tacoma, WA
Game Time is a Tacoma-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through after school enrichment, mental wellness programming, and community engagement that goes far beyond the basketball court. Since our founding, we have been a consistent, trusted presence in the lives of Tacoma families — providing safe spaces, skilled mentors, and life-changing opportunities for young people who need them most. Whether you're a parent seeking a safe after school program, a student looking for support, or a community member ready to give back, Game Time is your home.
The Mission and Community Need
Closing the Opportunity Gap for Tacoma Youth
Game Time is a Tacoma-based nonprofit dedicated to closing the opportunity gap for underserved youth. We recognize that the hours between school and home are a critical window for intervention — without structured support, these are the hours when academic progress stalls and community safety risks increase. By providing a "Third Space" for development, we meet youth where they are — on the court and in the classroom — to build the resilience, character, and skills necessary for lifelong success.
The Whole-Child Strategy
Our impact is driven by a comprehensive Five-Pillar Model that addresses the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of every participant. Through Mental Wellness forums, Academic Recovery learning pods, Equitable Access mentorship, Family Engagement initiatives, and healing-centered Sports & Health programs, we provide more than just activities — we provide a pathway. This holistic approach ensures that our youth aren't just surviving their circumstances, but are equipped to lead their communities as confident, capable adults.
Proven Impact and Trust
Rooted in lived experience and local proximity, Game Time is a trusted partner of the City of Tacoma and Tacoma Public Schools. Serving over 2,700+ youth across 7+ cities annually, we maintain the highest standards of safety and professionalism. We invite our partners to look beyond the statistics and see the "Magic" in our stories — where a single Impact Night session or a Beyond the Bell breakthrough becomes the catalyst for a child's transformed future.
How We Create Lasting Change
Each program is rooted in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) principles, guided by trained professionals, and designed to meet youth where they are. We partner with local schools, churches, and community organizations to extend our reach and ensure that every young person who needs us can access us. Through consistent, community-centered programming, we are changing outcomes for Tacoma youth — one student, one session, one season at a time.
Forums, learning pods, and skills-based programming that build emotional resilience and close the academic achievement gap for underserved Tacoma youth.
Culturally responsive mentorship, leadership circles, and intergenerational initiatives that level the playing field and strengthen the village around every participant.
Trauma-informed athletics and anti-violence programming that promote physical wellness, community safety, and positive youth development on and off the court.
After School Programs: Beyond the Bell and Club B
Two flagship after school programs designed to support Tacoma students from kindergarten through eighth grade — rooted in academics, enrichment, and Social Emotional Learning.
Overview of Beyond the Bell and Club B
Beyond the Bell and Club B are after school enrichment programs designed to support students beyond the classroom through activities including sports, arts, and academic support rooted in Social Emotional Learning. Serving students in grades K–5 (Beyond the Bell) and grades 6–8 (Club B), these programs provide safe and engaging environments where youth can continue learning, build relationships, and develop important life skills. Since partnering with these programs, Game Time has proudly helped lead the charge in creating meaningful after school opportunities that support students and families — filling the gap between the end of the school day and the end of the workday.
Daily Schedule and Activities for Students
A typical program day includes a structured arrival and snack period, homework assistance with trained tutors, enrichment activities such as arts, physical education, or project-based learning, and a closing reflection that reinforces the day's SEL theme. Staff maintain low student-to-staff ratios to ensure each child receives meaningful attention. Club B students engage in more independence-focused activities including peer leadership projects, community service planning, and discussions designed to build critical thinking and personal accountability.
How to Enroll Your Child in Our After School Programs
Enrollment is open to all Tacoma-area youth in the eligible grade ranges. To enroll, contact Game Time at 253.439.7233 or visit our enrollment page online. Space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Financial assistance and scholarship options are available for qualifying families.
Mental Wellness Support: Get Your Mind Right
Why Youth Mental Wellness Matters in Tacoma
Youth in Tacoma — like young people across the country — face increasing levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Academic pressure, social dynamics, family circumstances, and community-level adversity all take a toll on the mental health of young people who often lack the tools to process and respond to these stressors. Left unaddressed, poor mental health contributes to declining academic performance, increased behavioral issues, and long-term consequences that follow youth into adulthood. Game Time recognized this need early and developed Get Your Mind Right as a direct, practical response rooted in our belief that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Core Components of the Get Your Mind Right Program
Get Your Mind Right is a mental wellness program created by Game Time to support the emotional and psychological well-being of young students and student-athletes. The program focuses on building mental resilience alongside physical development — equipping participants with tools to manage stress, develop self-awareness, set healthy boundaries, and build a confident, growth-oriented mindset. Sessions incorporate group discussion, physical activity, peer support, and guided reflection in formats that feel accessible and relevant to young people's lived experiences.
Youth Engagement: Impact Nights Programs
Weekly Events and Experiences
Impact Night is a signature Game Time program that creates a safe, positive space for youth to focus on mental health and personal growth. Through interactive forums and supportive activities, participants gain tools to manage stress, build resilience, and develop confidence that positively shapes their lives in and outside of school. Impact Night also serves as a powerful form of youth violence prevention — providing mentorship, healthy outlets, and environments that reduce risk factors and promote positive decision-making.
Mentors, Coaches, and Community Partners
Each event features local mentors, coaches, and community leaders who bring lived experience into the room. Youth don't just hear advice — they enter genuine dialogue with adults who have faced similar challenges. Game Time vets all participants and maintains a structured, respectful environment where every young person feels heard and supported.
"Game Time changed my son's life. Before Beyond the Bell, he was struggling in school and coming home to an empty house. Now he has mentors who believe in him, and his grades have improved every semester."— Maria T.
"The Get Your Mind Right program gave my daughter tools I didn't even know she needed. She's more confident, communicates better, and handles stress in ways that genuinely amaze me."— DeShawn R.
"I've volunteered with several Tacoma non-profits, but Game Time is different. The staff are passionate, the programming is top-notch, and the kids clearly feel safe and valued here."— Keisha L.
The Roots of The Game Time Way
Born from District 4, Built for Tacoma
Born from deep District 4 roots in Tacoma, Game Time's local founders Darren De Leon and David Stewart witnessed the pervasive cycles of substance abuse, violence, and incarceration firsthand. When confronted with these challenges among early participants — many from low-income, single-parent households — they became more than coaches. They served as vital mentors, advocates, and a support system.
From Grassroots Effort to Full-Service Non-Profit
This imperative led to the creation of The Game Time Way — a solution built on purpose and genuine care. What began as a grassroots effort quickly matured into a full-service non-profit, equipped with multiple programs, trained staff, and the capacity to serve hundreds of youth each year. Darren and David's lived experience is not just the origin story of Game Time — it is the ongoing foundation of every program, every mentor relationship, and every young person we serve.
Why Choose and Trust Game Time
Choosing an organization to trust with your child's time and development is a serious decision. Here's what sets Game Time apart.
Trusted by the City of Tacoma and Tacoma Public Schools
Game Time is a recognized community partner of the City of Tacoma and Tacoma Public Schools. That trust has been earned through years of consistent, high-quality programming that produces real outcomes for families and neighborhoods across Pierce County.
Proven Outcomes for Local Youth and Families
We track academic progress, behavioral improvements, and self-reported wellbeing — not just participation numbers. Our data consistently shows gains in attendance, grades, emotional regulation, and social confidence. These documented outcomes reflect programming quality that keeps Tacoma families coming back year after year.
Rooted in Lived Experience and Local Proximity
Game Time was founded by people from this community, for this community. Our founders' deep District 4 roots and firsthand experience with the challenges Tacoma youth face inform every decision we make — from program design to staff hiring to community partnerships.
Responsible Stewardship of Community Support
Every donated dollar goes directly toward program delivery, staff training, and expanding youth access. We operate under strict non-profit oversight with transparent financial reporting so donors and partners can trust their support is making a direct, measurable impact on Tacoma youth.
Service Areas We Proudly Serve
Game Time serves youth across Tacoma and the broader Pierce County region, bringing our programs to schools, community centers, and churches throughout the area.
Tacoma Neighborhoods We Reach
Our primary home is Tacoma, WA, where we serve youth across Hilltop, South End, East Tacoma, Central Tacoma, and North Tacoma. We have deep knowledge of each community's needs and build lasting relationships with local families, schools, and neighborhood organizations to stay connected and effective.
Bringing Programs to Schools, Churches, and Community Centers
Game Time brings programs to where youth already are. We partner with schools, churches, parks and recreation centers, and community organizations throughout Pierce County to deliver programming in accessible, familiar spaces. Contact us to explore bringing our programs to your community.
Nearby Cities We Serve
FAQ: About Game Time and Our Programs
Have questions about Game Time, our programs, or how to get involved? We've answered the most common questions below.
What is Game Time and what makes it a non-profit?
Game Time is a registered nonprofit organization headquartered in Tacoma, WA, accountable to its mission rather than shareholders. All funds raised through donations, grants, and community partnerships are directed toward program delivery, staff training, and expanding access to youth services across Pierce County. Game Time operates with full transparency, published financials, and an active board of directors rooted in the Tacoma community.
Who can enroll in your after school programs?
Game Time's after school programs serve students in Tacoma and surrounding communities. Beyond the Bell is open to students in grades K–5, while Club B serves students in grades 6–8. Enrollment is open to all youth regardless of school affiliation, athletic ability, or academic standing. Families can enroll by calling our office at 253.439.7233 or by visiting our website to complete an enrollment inquiry form. Space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do you offer free or low-cost options for Tacoma families?
Yes. Game Time is committed to removing financial barriers so that every Tacoma youth can access quality programming regardless of their family's income. Many of our programs are offered at no cost thanks to community donations, local grants, and corporate partnerships. For families who may face economic hardship, Game Time offers sliding-scale fees and full scholarship options. No child will be turned away from our programs due to inability to pay. Contact our office to learn more about financial assistance options.
What ages do your youth programs and Impact Nights serve?
Game Time programs serve a broad age range of Tacoma youth. Beyond the Bell serves students ages 5–11 (grades K–5). Club B serves youth ages 11–14 (grades 6–8). Get Your Mind Right mental wellness programming is available for youth ages 8–18. Impact Nights events are designed for youth ages 13–21 and are open to all teens and young adults from Tacoma and nearby cities including Lakewood, University Place, Puyallup, and Spanaway.
How does Game Time support mental wellness for youth?
Game Time addresses youth mental wellness through its dedicated Get Your Mind Right program, which provides practical tools for emotional resilience, stress management, and self-awareness. Sessions are designed to be accessible and relevant to young people's lived experiences, covering topics like managing anxiety, building healthy relationships, and developing a growth mindset. The program also incorporates physical activity and group discussion, recognizing that mental and physical health are deeply connected. Game Time partners with local mental health professionals to ensure programming reflects best practices in youth behavioral health.
How can I volunteer, donate, or partner with Game Time?
There are multiple ways to support Game Time's mission in Tacoma. You can volunteer as a mentor, tutor, event facilitator, or administrative helper by completing a volunteer application on our website. Donations of any amount can be made online through our secure donation portal at gametimetacoma.org/donate. Organizations interested in community partnerships — including schools, churches, businesses, and foundations — can reach out directly to our partnerships team.
Where are you located and how do I contact you?
Game Time is based in Tacoma, WA and serves youth throughout Pierce County and surrounding areas. You can reach us by phone at 253.439.7233 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. You can also send us a message through our Contact page at gametimetacoma.org/contact. For program-specific inquiries, enrollment requests, or partnership discussions, we encourage you to call or visit our contact page to schedule a conversation with our team.
Ready to Get Involved with Game Time?
Call 253.439.7233 or Visit Our Tacoma Location
Whether you're a parent looking to enroll a child, a volunteer, a donor, or an organization seeking a community partner — Game Time is ready to connect. Join the hundreds of Tacoma families who trust us with their children. Reach out today.