Senator Strickland with Jim Carol & Brent Carlson with GameChanger Charity. Click HERE to learn more about GameChanger Charity. Contact Jacqui.Nguyen@sen.ca.gov for a high-resolution photo.
Senator Tony Strickland (R-Huntington Beach) is proud to announce that GameChanger Charity, a Dana Point–based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children facing life-threatening illnesses, is the Nonprofit of the Year for California Senate District 36. Founder Jim Carol and Brent Carlson, who serves on the board of advisors of GameChanger Charity, joined Senator Strickland at a special celebration with other nonprofit honorees at the California State Capitol in Sacramento.
“GameChanger Charity exemplifies the spirit of service and innovation that strengthens our communities,” said Senator Strickland. “I’m proud to recognize Jim, his son Taylor, and their dedicated team of volunteers who are committed to bringing laughter and smiles to hospitalized children.”
Founded in 2007, GameChanger Charity delivers innovative, pediatric support programs designed to bring hope, healing, and connection to children during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. The organization partners with hospitals around the world to provide game rooms, in-room technology, therapeutic programs, and comfort resources that help reduce stress and improve the patient experience.
“This recognition reflects the resilience of the children and families we serve, as well as the dedication of our volunteers and partners,” said Jim Carol, Founder of GameChanger Charity. “We are grateful for this recognition from Senator Strickland and remain committed to delivering hope and healing to every child we reach.”
GameChanger Charity’s programs extend beyond entertainment. The organization provides equine therapy, supports stress-reduction research, offers scholarships for young survivors, and delivers cutting-edge hospital technology designed to foster connection and emotional well-being. Notably, it operates as an all-volunteer organization, with approximately 96% of funds going directly toward mission-driven programs.
“Jim’s inspiration for GameChanger Charity began as a deeply personal mission, rooted in his son’s battle with pediatric cancer,” Senator Strickland added. “Nearly two decades later, the organization has grown into a global effort supporting more than 25,000 children across over 250 hospitals on five continents.”
Click here to learn more about GameChanger Charity and see photos of the many smiling faces of children that Jim and his team have helped over the years.