Christopher helfrich - How EAT.LEARN.PLAY. is Changing Lives – One Meal, Lesson, and Game at a Time
The impact of philanthropic efforts on local communities cannot be overstated, particularly when we examine the inspiring work being done by Christopher Helfrich, CEO of Eat Learn Play, a foundation co-founded by basketball stars Stephen and Aisha Curry. This initiative, launched in 2019, strives to tackle the persistent challenges of childhood hunger, enhance educational opportunities, and promote active lifestyles for kids in Oakland, California. With over $32 million raised and invested into the community, the foundation fosters a culture of equity and opportunity for underserved families.
In this episode, Christopher recounts the personal journeys and motivations behind his commitment to social change. From a young age, he began to understand the importance of empathy and advocacy, largely influenced by his own upbringing within a large family that included adopted siblings facing daunting challenges. This life experience instilled in him a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others, driving his career choices and ultimately leading him to work alongside the Currys in launching Eat Learn Play.
One of the cornerstones of the foundation is its approach to addressing childhood hunger. In Oakland, where nearly 40% of students live in food insecure households, Christopher emphasizes the critical role schools play in providing not just education but also meals for thousands of children. With the pandemic amplifying existing challenges, Eat Learn Play quickly adapted to ensure that thousands of meals were distributed to families in need. Christopher’s leadership ensured that local restaurants were engaged in these efforts, providing critical sustenance while also supporting small businesses affected by shutdowns.
Moreover, the podcast highlights the significant link between childhood literacy and future success. The narrative swiftly shifts to the educational initiatives that Eat Learn Play has pioneered to combat poor literacy rates among children of color in Oakland. Christopher stresses the staggering statistic that 85% of these children are reading below grade level by third grade, a critical point that often determines their success in education and beyond. By investing in comprehensive tutoring programs and improving school environments, the foundation is helping to bridge the gap and enable these children to thrive.
Additionally, Christopher sheds light on the significance of the "play" aspect embedded in their mission, advocating for children’s access to recreational sports which are essential for their physical and mental development. Acknowledging the declining participation in youth sports due to budget cuts and logistical barriers, he passionately articulates how Eat Learn Play is working towards ensuring that every child has the opportunity to engage in physical activity that fosters teamwork, builds confidence, and promotes overall well-being.
The foundations of Eat Learn Play are deeply rooted in a commitment to authenticity and community-driven initiatives. As Christopher navigates through the challenges of scaling the nonprofit, he reveals invaluable insights into organizational growth, the importance of relationship building, and how vital it is to listen to the community’s needs. The guests at the dinner table meetings with the Currys are not just brainstorming ideas; they are collectively harnessing the power of their voices and resources to create sustainable change that genuinely impacts the lives of Oakland's children.
In conclusion, this episode with Christopher Helfrich is not only an inspiring testament to love and determination but also a powerful call to action for anyone interested in making a tangible difference in their community. By tuning in, listeners will not only learn about the impactful work of Eat Learn Play but also be inspired to reflect on their roles in advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations around them. This conversation reveals the profound truth that change is possible when we align our passions with purposeful action.
