If someone asks you what “City of Brotherly Love” means, point them to the Change Our Future Sneaker Ball.
The Third Annual Change Our Future Sneaker Ball, presented by Wingstop Charities, might be an event that raises money to provide enriching opportunities for youth in Philadelphia, but on a deeper level, it’s so much more.
Even after being off the team, former Eagles and current Browns safety Rodney McLeod’s connection with Philadelphia is strong. The Change Our Future co-founders held their third annual Sneaker Ball on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the Vie by Cescaphe from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Guests were dressed to the nines and traded fancy shoes for a pair of matching sneakers. The event had some new features that emphasized the fashion aspect while bringing home the community and philanthropy event. A runway was added to the event with the students who were impacted by Change Our Future. Guests could also use a rotating sneaker camera to highlight their sneakers.
“I think the best part about Change Our Future when we first started Sneaker Ball, it was in the midst of the pandemic. We had to transition to who felt comfortable coming in the room. And let’s just bring a lot of people together to network.” Co-founder Erika McLeod said.
“And now it’s you have a passion of people that have seen change our future, how much it’s grown and developed. And they want to support our mission. They want to find ways to volunteer and donate and it’s accordingly different when you see the support from day one to now, we’re at our record high, I think guest attendees this year.”
Jordan Mailata poses with wife, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender on red carpet before Sneaker Ball in Philadelphia, PA. June 23, 2023. Jennifer McGraw/First & Jenn
Five Philadelphia natives were honored with the Game Changer Award, given to those who create lasting impacts in their communities. Longtime Eagles and Saints safety, Malcolm Jenkins, was one of the honorees.
“I’m obviously I’m very, very honored to be honored here tonight. But you know, it coming from Rodney is really a proud moment for me, because, you know, I know, we have shared a locker room and a lot of time together. He’s a good friend of mine. I know, he always talks about me being an influence.” Jenkins said.
“And so, you know, when you plant seeds, and you get to see those seeds, you know, turn into trees that bear fruit and do some other things is it’s an amazing feeling.”
But this little city treasure is 4-5 hours of family. Whether you support the cause or you’re a football fan, the event really makes you feel like you’re a part of something special for the night.
From the moment you set foot in the venue, you feel part of the community. You feel a sense of belonging within this football, philanthropic family. Events like these share why Philadelphia, and the Eagles in particular, have a special bond between players, fans and their communities.
Even players like Jason Kelce and Jordan Mailata came out to support the cause because of Rodney’s lasting impact on and off the field.
“Both of them were really involved in the city of Philadelphia. And at the time, they were both even before they started the foundation. Were very involved with different community outreach programs and everything.” Kelce said.
“Whatever chance I have to support him, I know that my wife feels the same way she loves Erika. So yeah, it’s just a great reason for us to come support the cause.” Mailata said.
After raising money and coming together to support the future events Change Our Future will hold, guests from all walks of life hit the dance floor, joined by former Eagle Jason Avant among other special guests.
Game Changer Award recipient Malcolm Jenkins on red carpet before Sneaker Ball in Philadelphia, PA. June 23, 2023. Jennifer McGraw/First & Jenn
Being able to support the children in a unique event is something Rodney and Erika continue to do in Philadelphia, and the support of his former teammates helps drive the work Change Our Future can do.
“I think it really does demonstrate the meaning behind a brother in brotherhood will be formed here in Philly, over the course of my six years, and it’s proven in the moments outside of the locker room. And these are one of those moments.” Rodney said.
Rodney went on to explain how other Eagles, current and former, paved the way to allow Change Our Future to happen.
“We’re just an extension of them and understanding that everything that we do, can’t be done without everybody that’s in this room. And so not only my brothers but the supporters of these Philadelphians who care deeply about the next generation – that’s what really matters.” Rodney said.
Immerse yourself in the family and be a part of the change with the Change Our Future foundation. To learn more about the foundation and how to donate or volunteer, visit the Change Our Future website.
First & Jenn 
Leave a comment